Skin color is determined by a pigment called melanin. Depending on how much melanin is synthesized, our skin assumes a characteristic color. It is also important to understand that it is this pigment that protects us forms the harmful effects of the UV rays.
You will find that people in the tropics, where sun rays are more direct and hence harsh, are darker in color as more melanin is synthesized for providing extra protection. Hence, melanin is not just responsible for color but also performs a vital function.
However today, our obsession for lighter skin has become very pronounced and dark skinned people are in a constant pursuit to lighten their skin tone to gain more confidence and acceptability. Therefore, it is understandable why despite having a normal skin, which is slightly dark in color you would want to lighten it. Before you read the following tips, understand that your skin color is largely determined by your genes and can be lightened only to a certain extent with few skin care methods.
Following are some skin care tips that will help you lighten your skin color:
- Avoid skins and creams containing AHAs, glycolic peels, mineral oil, and petroleum based products like petroleum jelly, sodium and ammonium lauryl sulfate, and preservatives like butylparaben and methylparaben. These are harsh ingredients and although they may provide visible results, they are harmful irritants when used over a period of time.
- Opt for creams, which contain natural ingredients such as lime, orange, papaya, milk proteins, and yeast. These ingredients have a bleaching and peeling effect, which will help you lighten and exfoliate the dark layer of your skin.
- Pearl powder has been an ancient antidote for skin lightening. Mix equal quantities of pearl powder, kaolin, and rice flour. Make a paste by mixing it with boiling water. Apply on the dark areas and keep it on for 30 minutes or until dry. Follow this routine twice a week for 2-3 months or as desired.
- Oatmeal is also known for its whitening properties. Boil oatmeal in water. Cool and mix some lemon juice. This is an excellent whitening pack and can be used on a daily basis.
- Mix barley meal powder, dry lemon peel powder, and dry milk powder and mix it with rose water to make a paste. Apply this over dark skin. You can mix the powders and store them in an airtight jar. Mix with rose water as and when desired.
- To enhance results, it is advised that you cleanse and steam your face before applying these packs. Cleansing must be done twice a day with a mild cleanser. Alternatively gram flour and turmeric mixed with water make a good cleanser. Steaming can be done 2-3 times a week.
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