Say bye-bye to hyperpigmentation with these 5 essential oils

No, you cannot take hyper-pigmentation lightly, because if it is not treated on time, it can worsen the health of your skin. But did you know that hyper-pigmentation can be managed with essential oils? Yes, it’s true.

Before you find out how, let’s read about the condition first.

So, what’s hyper-pigmentation?

Hyper-pigmentation is the second most common skin problem faced by men and women. It causes darkening of the skin and shows up in the form of dark-coloured spots. The main culprit of pigmentation is melanin but it can also be caused as a consequence of unprotected sun exposure, heredity, hormonal changes, age, injury on skin, acne, pregnancy, medications, chemotherapy, or skin inflammation. It usually occurs on the face but can affect other parts of the body too. These are also commonly known as freckles, age spots, melasma, etc.

So, can essential oils really help to get rid of hyper-pigmentation?

Yes! HealthShots spoke to Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, to find out how.

Dr Kapoor says, “If you can control and fade hyper-pigmentation using natural methods, it might never come back. Essential oils are the latest buzzword in the beauty world that will help you do just that. Essential oils are concentrated chemical compounds derived from plants. They are anti-inflammatory, have skin lightening properties, inhibit tyrosinase (which causes melanin production), absorb the harmful UV rays, promote cell renewal and regeneration, improve collagen production, and help with skin hydration. Overall, they act as protectors and healers of the skin.”

Here are the top 5 essential oils that are most beneficial for hyper-pigmentation treatment:

1. Neroli or sweet orange oil

“Citrus-based oils such as neroli or sweet orange oil can help to lighten hyper-pigmentation because they aid in vitamin C absorption,” says Dr Kapoor. Vitamin C absorption is essential because it has a great impact on the skin. This vitamin can help in reducing wrinkles, dark circles, combat signs of ageing, protect sun damage, and sun rays that can make pigmentation worse. All in all, they help decrease hyper-pigmentation, thereby improving your skin tone.

2. Sandalwood oil

Sandalwood essential oil has a soothing and nourishing effect that helps to heal and fade facial acne scars. Dr Kapoor says, “Sandalwood oil is a traditional inclusion in Indian skin care and it prevents tyrosinase production. It also acts as an antiseptic that fights skin problems. Along with this, it has anti-fungal and anti- inflammatory properties, which makes it a perfect solution for your hyper-pigmentation issues.”

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3. Geranium oil

Geranium oil is especially helpful in reducing pigmentation, caused due to acne scars. It is also a natural astringent and antibacterial and helps in hydration retention and calms inflammation, improving your skin’s appearance. Moreover, it will also help you fight free radicals and reduce scarring and hyperpigmentation.

4. Carrot seed oil

Carrot seed oil is also found to be effective in reducing pigmentation and helps in skin lightening. Wonder why? Dr Kapoor says, “Carrot seed oil is rich in beta carotene, which protects the skin from damage from UV rays and is often used as an ingredient in sunscreens.” Well, if you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, it’s really important to protect your skin from sun damage and carrot seed oil can do that, all thanks to its antioxidant and antiseptic properties.

Also, read: Are you a victim of hyperpigmentation? Ditch these 5 skincare habits today!

5. Lemon oil

Last but not the least, lemon oil is another essential oil that can help cure pigmentation spots. It is an excellent oil for lightening dark spots and patches on the skin. Dr Kapoor says, “Lemon oil helps lighten the skin tone and it contains vitamin C that reduces melanin producing skin cells.”. Not just vitamin C, it also has antioxidants that have been shown to remove dead skin cells, boost cell regeneration, and protect skin from free radicals. Thus, it helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and gives you an even skin tone.

How should you use essential oils?

“Essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil such as argan, jojoba, pomegranate, or rosehip. Do a patch test before you start using the essential oil. The effect of essential oils can take weeks or months to show up, therefore be patient and follow a regular skin routine,” says Dr Kapoor.