Dark brown patches of Melasma can appear anywhere on the body and usually they are harmless. However, they are particularly bothersome to some women when dark patches start appearing on their face. This condition is also known as chloasma or pregnancy mask. They are caused by a steep rise in estrogen and progesterone levels in your body that stimulates excess melanin production. Which appears as brown patches on the skin. Exposure to the sun can make them look worst on your face. You have to be more careful during summer months and protect your skin from UV rays. You can also try some skin lightening masks and peels.
Here are three of my all time favourite face masks
Turmeric mask
- 2 tbsp Gram flour/ rice flour
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 tsp full-fat yoghurt
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- rose water to adjust consistency
Mix everything well in a mixing bowl. Cover and set aside for 4-5 minutes.
As you can see this mask has some strong ingredients such as lemon, coconut oil and turmeric. hence, I use this mask for deep cleaning my skin just two or three times a month. Also, I use it in the evening to avoid sun and dirt exposure after application.
Instructions to use the mask
Wash and clean your face and neck and towel dry. Apply the mask all over your face and neck. Leave it to dry for about 15-20 minutes. To remove the mask, sprinkle some water on the mask and rub with your fingertips in a circular motion to exfoliate. After one or two minutes, rinse your face with warm water to remove mask and oil from your skin. Finally, rinse with cold water to close the pore of your skin. Pat dry your skin and use any gel-based moisturiser to lock in the moisture.
Do not go out in the sun and dust right after using a face pack or any other skincare treatment that opens skin pores and exfoliates. Dust particles can clog pores on your skin and can cause pimples. Also, your skin can be sensitive to sun rays.
Oatmeal and honey mask
- 2tbsp instant oatmeal powder
- 2tbsp raw milk
- 1tsp honey
Mix oats and milk in a bowl and set aside for 5 minutes. Now add honey and mix well. Adjust consistency with milk. Mask is ready to apply. Use the instructions provided above.
This one is a delicate mask that can be used a few times a week. Raw milk works best, if not available use normal milk. In winter you will find it easy to mix honey if it’s a bit warm.
Potato and aloevera gel
- 1 tbsp fresh aloe vera gel
- 1 tbsp Potato juice
Mix both ingredients in equal quantity and your mask is ready. Use the instructions provided above.
We have aloe vera plant at home and potatoes are available year long. I just put fresh aloe vera gel and peeled potato in a grinder and puree them for 30 seconds. And then strain it and store in the refrigerator for the whole week. You can use it every day if you want. This cooling gel is very soothing and relaxing after a long day.
I have my reasons to believe that these remedies work and improve your skin tone, but only in addition to 4 basic skincare rules
- eat healthily and nourish your body
- hydrate yourself
- protect from sun
- keep it clean
Take care!