Get Rid of Skin Pigmentation and Gain Back Your Original Glow with Ayurveda

Pigmentation is a common problem which is denoted by formation of blemishes, dark spots, dark circles, or general darkening of the skin or blotches. It may also be accompanied by itching. It is recommended that you consult with an Ayurvedic doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. There can be multiple reasons for skin pigmentation. Glowing skin is an indicator of health and it also boosts our confidence. So irrespective of what the colour of your skin is, we have some ayurvedic treatment for pigmentation on face and body that will help you regain your original glow.

Common causes of Pigmentation

Excessive Sun Exposure The causes of pigmentation can be several. Excessive exposure to the sun during summers is the most common reason. Sun rays have UV rays which is known to damage skin cells and cause darkening. Swimming outdoors is associated with sun exposure. People mistakenly think that chlorine in swimming pool water is the cause, but being under the sun for long periods of time is the real culprit but people are oblivious to that since the water has a cooling effect on the skin.

Post-Pregnancy/Use of Contraceptive Pills It has been observed that imbalanced hormones can also darken the skin. Use of contraceptive pills and pregnancy leads to hormonal (estrogenic) changes which trigger melanocytes to produce more melanin, hence pigmentation.

Side Effect of medicines Side effect of medicines is also known to have triggered pigmentation. Application of topical drugs, some antibiotics, hormonal drugs or chemotherapy medicines may cause pigmentation.

Injuries Injuries may leave distinct marks on the skin. When new skin replaces the damaged area, it may have slightly different pigmentation compared to the area near it.

Excessive dermatological problems Acne, eczema or similar dermatological problems have also been known to leave behind pigmented areas on the skin. Use of aggressive medicines may aggravate the problem even further.

Ayurvedic View on Pigmentation Ayurveda says that the skin is governed primarily by Vyana Vata and Bhrajaka Pitta. Bhrajaka Pitta, a sub-dosha of Pitta governs our skin colour. Ayurveda says that when this sub-dosha is out of balance, we observe skin problems, including pigmentation. Like with every Ayurvedic treatment, the solution is in pacifying the aggravated pitta. This is done with the help of several internal and external processes. Herbal formulations for topical application and consumption are prescribed which deals with the aggravated dosha from within as well as on the skin surface. Accumulation of toxins in the body can also lead to pigmentation.

Now that you know the common causes of pigmentation, let us consider some pigmentation treatment in Ayurveda.

1. Application of Kumkumadi Add a few drops of Kumkumadi oil with turmeric and aloe vera cream. Apply this paste on the affected area for half an hour before bath every day. Kumkumadi oil contains Kesar (saffron) and other effective herbs which reverses tanning and pigmentation on skin. Jiva Kumkumadi Oil is a blend of 6 ayurvedic herbs and is a pitta pacifier which lightens complexion, removes pimples, blemishes, scars and wrinkles.

2. Herbal bath Ayurvedic texts speak of the benefits of full body massage, followed by application of sandalwood, honey and turmeric and bathing with rose petals and milk in water. While following all of these may not be possible for all, you can at least apply a paste made of ¼ spoon turmeric powder with 1 spoon each of honey and milk. To make this paste for the entire body, add the ingredients in equal proportion as necessary. Apply the paste and keep it on for five to ten minutes and wash off with clean water. Adding a little fresh grapefruit or orange juice to the bathing water helps in pacifying Pitta on the skin.

3. Pitta Controlling Lifestyle Changes Since aggravated Pitta is the root cause of pigmentation, it is necessary to pacify this dosha for long term relief. To do that, a few lifestyle changes are recommended.

• Add juicy fruits like melons, plums and peaches to your diet.
• Drink plenty of fresh water, coconut water and juices to help the body flush out toxins.
• Avoid exposure to the sun, and wear full sleeved clothes in light colours like blue or white.
• Meditate and chant to deal with stress better. At office, take breaks to avoid being stressed.
• Do yoga and light exercises in the morning when the weather is not very hot.
• Exfoliation helps remove dark spots from skin. Thrice a week, exfoliate your skin. Jiva Walnut Scrub contains Walnut, Jojoba oil and Apricot oil which gently removes dead skin cells and nourishes your skin.