The natural substance that makes your skin, hair, and eyes colored is Melanin. It is formed using the special cells called melanocytes. Almost all people have nearly equal quantities of these cells, though some have more melanin than others do. The more there is melanin the darker the skin would be.
Melanin is sometimes accumulated in some areas and leads to darker areas referred to as hyperpigmentation. These spots are treatable although the outcomes are not consistent, and certain treatment is risky. There is also the opportunity to use some approaches that will assist in decreasing the melanin synthesis in order to avoid the occurrence of new dark spots.
What Is Melanin and Why Does It Increase?
Melanin shields your skin against the destructive influence of the sun. The more time you are in the sun, the more melanin is produced by your body to protect your skin against UV rays. That is why your skin turns dark when you are exposed to the sun.
Hyper pigmentation occurs as a result of mounting melanin in tiny spots. Such dark spots may be cured by medical interventions or natural mild methods.
Can You Remove Existing Melanin Deposits?
Yes, though you must never forget to consult a dermatologist. Preexisting melanin is removable using various treatments.
1. Laser Therapy
Laser procedures assist in lightening melanin patches that are dark.
Types of lasers:
Ablative lasers: The outer layers of the skin are removed; they are more deeply pigmented.
Nonablative lasers: Do not ablate the skin; increase collagen and enhance texture.
1064 nm laser: This wavelength is safe on melanin that is not located in the upper skin layer, it is better on dark skin.
Side effects may occur: discoloration, scarring or infection.
2. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL involves the application of various wavelengths of light to warm pigment and eliminate it.
IPL should not be used in dark skin.
3. Topical Creams
The skin-lightening creams decrease melanin in specific regions. They may contain:
Kojic acid
Vitamin C
Glycolic acid
Azelaic acid
Retinoids
Hydroquinone (by prescription)
Arbutin
These ingredients inhibit the production of melanin by blocking the enzyme that produces melanin called tyrosinase.
Side effects: dryness, redness, irritation. It is always important to consult a dermatologist.
Natural ways to Reduce Melanin Production
These are recognized to slow the formation of melanin and need regularity.
Sun Protection
Melanin is more prevalent with sun exposure and hence sunscreen is the most effective method of reducing new dark spots.
Choose a sunscreen that is:
- SPF 30 or higher
- Broad-spectrum
- Water-resistant
Extra tips:
- Avoid sun from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Wear hats, sunglasses and long sleeves.
- Skip tanning beds
Natural Remedies to Reduce Melanin Production
There are natural options that can assist in making pigmentations lighter, although the effects are not predictable.
Turmeric
Turmeric has curcumin that has the ability to block the tyrosinase and lower melanin.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is rich in aloesin that could hinder the synthesis of melanin especially following sun exposure.
Lemon Juice
Lemon is a source of vitamin C and causes skin irritation. It should always be diluted and followed by avoidance of the sun.
Green Tea
It has EGCG, which has been known to reduce the accumulation of melanin.
What You Should Avoid
There are dangerous home remedies which must not be used anywhere on the body:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Bleach
- Ammonia
They may lead to burns and irreparable damage.
Is Permanent Reduction of Melanin possible?
Melanin is always generated in your body and that is regulated through genes. The dark spots can be made light, although it might come back with time.
Monobenzene (monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone) is one powerful OTC pain reliever that is capable of permanently lightening the skin, though it is not very frequently administered unless in severe cases such as massive vitiligo. FDA avoids the general use owing to safety hazards.
Skin Lightening Precautions
Attempts to decrease melanin may result in:
- Higher risk of sun damage
- There is an augmentation in the risk of skin cancer.
- Sensitivity, erythema, or irritation.
The FDA does not recommend injectable skin-lightening treatments because they are a safety issue.
