Everyone wishes to have blemish-free, flawless, and fair skin. We keep trying several treatments and remedies to achieve specific skincare goals and having clearer skin is one of them. So, how to reduce melanin and have lighter skin tone?
When it comes to reducing the melanin production of your skin, skin lightening treatments are quite effective. However, the results are temporary, and there can be side effects. So, if you are looking for ways to reduce melanin, scroll down to know your options.
We have also included some excellent natural remedies that have zero side effects. So, if melanin reduction is your goal, stay tuned till the end!
What is melanin?
The pigment responsible for giving color to your eyes, skin, and hair is known as melanin. Cells known as melanocytes are responsible for creating melanin and these cells are present in the outer layer of the skin.
If your cells produce more melanin, you will have darker skin. Sometimes, melanin build-up takes place in specific areas, leading to skin darkening. This condition is termed hyperpigmentation by doctors. If you have hyperpigmentation, you will notice that some parts of the skin have become darker than other areas.
Melanin is continually created in every individual’s body. Then why are some people fair skinned and other have dark complexions? Genetics and sun exposure are two of the biggest factors causing melanin overproduction.
So, the question that everyone has in mind is ‘how to reduce melanin in skin?’ Let’s find out!
Laser therapy for melanin reduction
When it comes to reducing melanin, laser therapy has emerged as a popular cosmetic procedure. It involves using a light beam to remove the top layer of the skin. As it targets small portions of the skin, it effectively treats hyperpigmentation.
Laser treatment can be of following types:
Ablative lasers
For a person having severe discoloration due to prolonged exposure to the sun, ablative lasers are ideal. As the laser therapy will remove the skin’s outer layer, the discoloration will be gone. However, if you spend hours under the sun again, your melanocytes will end up producing more melanin.
1064 nm laser
An advanced treatment, this targets melanin to cause selective destruction. So, the top layer of your affected skin won’t be removed.
Nonablative lasers
As opposed to ablative lasers, nonablative lasers are gentler. They restore the plumpness of the skin by boosting collagen production,
Note: Laser therapy is a medical procedure and hence, it isn’t devoid of side effects. If not done properly, you may experience scarring, infection, and discoloration after the therapy.
Using lasers repeatedly can also lead to adverse effects such as visible depigmentation. Moreover, laser treatment requires multiple sessions, and the costs will add up.
So, if you are considering laser therapy, always consult a reputed and experienced dermatologist. But isn’t there a way of reducing melanin at home? Scroll down to learn about the best home remedies.
How to reduce melanin naturally?
If you aren’t a fan of laser therapy, what are your options? Follow these tips to control pigmentation, reduce melanin, and have brighter skin without paying frequent visits to the beauty salon.
Limit sun exposure
Melanin’s purpose is to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. When sun exposure is excessive, your skin is forced to produce excess melanin. If you wear good quality sunscreen, melanin production will slow down.
However, sunscreen fails to block 100% of the UV rays. So, avoid spending time outdoors between 10 am and 2 pm. If you must step out, wear hats, full-sleeve dresses, and sunglasses.
Use lemon and aloe vera
Many people prefer using aloe vera gel and lemon juice for reducing melanin production after getting exposed to the sun. Aloe vera has aloesin and this compound supresses tyrosinase.
As lemon is loaded with vitamin C, it is known for its anti-pigmentation effect. So, you can rub these ingredients on your skin in their raw form or mix them with other ingredients.
Note: While some home remedies are safe, not all are worth trying. So, refrain from using ammonia, hydrogen peroxide and bleach to reduce melanin.
How to reduce melanin by eating?
Wondering how to reduce melanin without paying huge medical bills? You can incorporate the following into your daily diet:
Have more turmeric
A 2012 study claimed that turmeric is a magic ingredient that can slow down the synthesis of melanin. It contains an active compound named curcumin which can inhibit tyrosinase. As an outcome, melanocytes lose their ability to produce more melanin.
Turmeric is easily available in every kitchen and is good for our overall health. Hence, there’s no harm in trying this remedy. Just keep adding turmeric to your meals to make them colorful and combat pigmentation.
Drink green tea
Since you asked how to reduce melanin in skin permanently by eating, you can also drink green tea. EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is a beneficial compound found in green tea. According to a 2015 study, EGCG is effective in inhibiting tyrosinase and preventing the accumulation of melanin.
For the best results, enjoy refreshing cups of green tea multiple times throughout the day. It offers other benefits like facilitating weight loss, promoting good sleep, and aiding digestion.
You can also have leafy greens, oatmeal, milk, and tomatoes to lighten your skin tone.
Final thoughts
So, how to reduce melanin? From laser therapy to the application of sunscreen – we discussed all the method that claim to target melanin synthesis. Equipped with this information, you can weigh all your options.
While the home remedies are devoid of side effects, you should research well before applying any topical ointment. So, it will be wise to get in touch with a certified dermatologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I reduce melanin naturally?
To reduce melanin, you can rely on basic kitchen ingredients like potatoes and turmeric powder. Additionally, apply lemon juice regularly on the tanned portions of your body.
2. Which food reduce melanin most?
Cheese, chia seeds, ginger, tomatoes, eggs, watermelon, papaya, carrots, kiwi, dry fruits, and yogurt are the foods that reduce melanin.