Hyperpigmentation and dark spots are common issues that many of us face. They can result from various factors such as a minor burn or injury leaving behind a stubborn scar, excessive melanin production, or prolonged exposure to the sun and the natural aging process. Healing hyperpigmentation and dark spots can be a lengthy process, often taking months or even years. However, instead of resorting to expensive creams and commercially marketed ointments, Ayurveda offers some kitchen staples that can provide a consistent healing solution. Continue reading to discover Ayurvedic DIY masks that you can easily prepare at home to lighten dark spots and prevent hyperpigmentation in the long term.

Turmeric + Milk + Lemon Juice

Turmeric, abundant in antioxidants like curcumin, can inhibit melanin production, a factor often linked to excessive hyperpigmentation. Additionally, antioxidants help combat free radicals that may otherwise harm the skin. Milk, containing lactic acid, aids in gentle exfoliation and fading sunspots, while lemon, rich in Vitamin C and other antioxidants, assists in treating sunspots, dark circles, and blemishes, promoting a healthy natural glow for your skin.

Instructions:

Mix one tablespoon of turmeric powder, two tablespoons of milk, and one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice until a smooth paste forms. Apply the paste to your face and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes, ensuring not to exceed the recommended time to avoid potential adverse effects of the citric acid in lemon on the skin’s pH. Rinse your face thoroughly and use this mask twice a week for optimal results.

Curd + Orange Peel Powder + Besan

Orange peel powder, easily made at home by drying the rind under the sun for several days and blending it, is rich in Vitamin C. Coupled with curd, which contains lactic acid for exfoliation, and besan for gentle removal of dead skin cells, this combination effectively helps eliminate dark spots.

Instructions:

Combine one tablespoon each of orange peel powder and besan with two tablespoons of curd. Mix well and apply the mixture to your face. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly, followed by moisturizer application.

Fenugreek + Milk + Sandalwood

Fenugreek powder is known for its ability to inhibit excessive melanin production, the primary culprit behind dark spots on the skin, including under the eyes. Additionally, fenugreek aids in fading acne spots, while milk helps maintain skin elasticity, and sandalwood serves as an anti-inflammatory agent, with alpha-santol, its active component, contributing to dark spot reduction.

Instructions:

Mix one tablespoon each of fenugreek powder and sandalwood powder with 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk to achieve the desired consistency. Apply the mixture generously to your face and neck, allowing it to dry for approximately 20 minutes before rinsing off thoroughly.

In summary, these three basic Ayurvedic DIY masks offer effective solutions for treating dark spots at home.