6 homemade scrubs to get rid of hyperpigmentation

Do you want to reduce or eliminate the dark spots on your face? These spots, known as hyperpigmentation, are often caused by excessive sun exposure. However, they can also be caused by ageing, hormone imbalances, pregnancy, acne, and certain medications. Regardless of the cause, there are various home remedies you can use to speed up the healing process and improve the evenness and brightness of your skin. One effective technique is to make homemade scrubs for hyperpigmentation prepared with nutrient-rich ingredients that you can find easily in your kitchen. These scrubs not only provide a delightful self-care experience but also naturally lighten dark spots.

6 homemade scrubs for hyperpigmentation

Here are some of the easy natural scrubs as explained by the expert:

1. Oatmeal, milk and honey scrub

Take 1 tablespoon of ground oatmeal. Add 1 tablespoon of honey and milk, and mix well. The lactic acid present in the milk helps to reduce hyperpigmentation on your face. Gently apply this scrub on your face and neck, and massage with your fingertips for about 30 to 40 seconds. Leave it for 10 minutes then rinse off with water. This scrub works best for sensitive skin.

2. Coffee scrub

Take one tablespoon of finely ground coffee. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil, and mix well. The coconut oil nourishes the skin and helps to lighten the dark spots. Gently massage this scrub. After 15 minutes, wash off with water. This works best for combination skin.

3. Turmeric besan yoghurt scrub

Take one tablespoon of Gram flour or besan, turmeric, and a half tablespoon of yoghurt. Turmeric contains skin-brightening properties that help in reducing hyperpigmentation. Mix well. Massage this scrub for 30 to 40 seconds and rinse off with water. This scrub is excellent for removing tan and fighting hyperpigmentation.

4. Banana oatmeal scrub

Take a ripe banana and mash it. Bananas contain nutrients that help in achieving an even skin tone. To this, add one teaspoon of ground oatmeal. Make a thick paste. Gently massage the mixture on your face for 30 seconds. Let it dry for 15 minutes then wash off. This scrub works best to achieve glowing skin to get rid of hyperpigmentation.

5. Sugar milk honey scrub

Take two tablespoons of honey. Honey contains antibacterial properties that can help you remove blemishes and dark spots. Add one teaspoon of milk and 2 teaspoons of fine-grained sugar. Apply and massage. Leave it for 15 minutes then rinse off. This works well for blemishes.

6. Strawberry yoghurt scrub

Mash half a cup of strawberry and add one cup of yoghurt to it. Strawberries contain salicylic acid which reduces and fades away hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Mix well. Massage lightly on the face and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing it with warm water. This scrub helps combat breakouts, works well for oily skin, and brightens your skin.

What are the benefits of using homemade scrubs for hyperpigmentation?

Here are some of the benefits of using natural scrubs for your skin, apart from lightening the dark spots as explained by cosmetologist and trichologist, Priti Mahire.

1. Exfoliation is key to healthy skin

Exfoliating your skin encourages cell turnover, which minimises the visibility of skin problems like dark spots. It combats tanning and revitalises the skin. Bright and evenly toned skin can be achieved by using a natural face scrub twice a week.

2. Unclogs pores by removing dead skin cells

Dead skin cells can be removed from your face with the use of a face scrub. Your skin may look parched due to dead skin cells. It may also unclog the pores of your skin. Using these homemade face scrubs can help you get smoother skin as it improves blood circulation. It also evens out the skin tone and texture.

3. Reduces acne scars

Face scrubs can help minimise the appearance of dark spots and acne scars. Using a scrub to gently massage your face can help you get rid of dead skin cells and promote the skin’s natural process of cell regeneration.

4. Gets rid of flakes

Your skin tends to get flaky and dry in winter, which can give the appearance of dull skin. You can effectively cleanse your skin and address flaking by using these homemade face scrubs.

5. Helps in the healing process

Using face scrubs assists in revealing skin that looks renewed and fresh. It enhances collagen synthesis and blood flow, which supports skin healing.

How to use a face scrub?

• Wash your face with the cleanser.
• Do not pat dry.
• Apply the scrub to the skin. Massage in circular motions for 30 to 40 seconds.
• Keep it for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Pat the skin dry.
• Apply moisturiser immediately.

What to do before and after using a face scrub?

Before the face scrub:

• Remove the makeup.
• Cleanse your face.
• Do not over-exfoliate.

After the face scrub:

• Applying moisturiser.
• If it’s day time, use sunscreen.
• You can use a sheet mask after using a natural scrub for smooth skin.

Scrubbing is advisable according to the skin type. Choose the scrubs that won’t harm your skin. Scrub once or twice a week to achieve good results.

Things to avoid after a face scrub

Keep these precautions in mind after scrubbing to keep your skin healthy and soft:

• Do not take steam.
• Use sunscreen before stepping out in the sun directly.
• Never skip the moisturiser.

Who should avoid natural scrubs?

Those who have sensitive skin, irritated skin, open cuts, or skin wounds should avoid face scrubs. Also, you must consult with your doctor to avoid any skin problems.