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First you need to determine whether white patches have developed on your cheeks and mouth area, or whether the rest of your skin has darkened. Both these conditions occur due to different reasons and as such it is important to analyze them before taking any measures to treat it. White patches and spots appear on the skin due to a condition called leucoderma, which is also referred to as vitiligo. This condition is characterized by discolorations on certain areas of the skin. This takes place due to a decreased production of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for skin color. These spots may start out small and can gradually increases in size. This is not a contagious illness and the factors that cause it are still unknown. Other conditions such as addison's disease and diabetes mellitus can aggravate the condition. Another reason why your cheeks and mouth may appear lighter than the rest of the body is dryness. Dry weather and inadequate moisturizing can cause the skin to flake and appear whitish and dry.
On the other hand, the rest of the skin may have become dark due to factors such as exposure to the sun, intake of certain medications, skin conditions such as scleroderma and addison's disease. Areas of the body such as the arms and legs are usually prone to tanning when exposed to the sun. In an attempt to protect the body from the adverse consequences of the ultra violet radiation of the sun, the body cells begin to produce melanin. The effects of melanin cause the skin to darken. Increase in melanin production can also occur due to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, inflammation and as part of the natural process of ageing.
In case of vitiligo, there are a few steps you can take to promote re-pigmentation of the skin, along with the prescribed medical treatment. Taking in moderate amounts of sunlight every day helps in stimulating melanin production. This must, however, not be overdone as the white spots are sensitive and could be prone to sunburn. The lemna minor plant of the duckweed family is known to be effective in treating vitiligo. It can be mixed with an equal amount of honey and taken. The juice of fresh lemna may also be applied to the white patches thrice a day. Another recommended remedy is to consume the extract of St. John's Wort as this helps to enhance photosensitivity. Including substantial amounts of vitamin B and C in the diet is also beneficial in the treatment of vitiligo. For skin darkening, you can apply a mixture of oatmeal, yogurt and tomato juice to the darkened areas. Potato juice is also effective in lightening the skin. Application of a paste of turmeric powder and lemon juice is also helpful in removing darkened patches on the skin.
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