Natural Skin Whitening/Bleaching Agents

HELLO AGAIN........im back

in my last post i talked about natural or home made skin lightening agents we are going to continue from there today.

Everyone wishes to have flawless skin. Skin acts as a protective barrier from the outside environment. Skin color mainly depends on its pigment, called melanin, produced in the skin cells called melanocytes. The more melanin pigment melanocytes produce, the darker the skin will be.
Skin tone can darken from tanning or as a result from exposure to sun rays. UV rays damage and darken skin. Prolonged exposure to polluted air, hormonal imbalances, heavy usage of cosmetics, ageing, unbalanced diet, stress, heredity, certain environmental factors, dry skin, genetics, certain medical conditions, and improper lifestyle choice, are all potential causes of dark skin.

Home Remedies to Lighten the Skin Naturally:

Using chemical-loaded cosmetics for skin lightening can get expensive and be harmful to your skin over time. Natural home remedies are much more cost effective and are safe for your body. Try these in addition to your personal skin care to naturally lighten dark skin.

1. Lemon Juice:

Lemon juice contains natural astringent properties which tighten pores and reduces sebum secretion. It bleaches the skin to whiten the complexion with its natural acidic composition. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C and anti-oxidants which help new skin cell growth and create a fair skin complexion.
Note:

• Avoid direct sunlight for 1 – 2 hours after application as lemon juice makes skin extra sensitive.
• Never ever apply lemon juice to open wounds.
• Use moisturizer as lemon juice can cause dry skin.
• Dilute lemon juice with water prior to application, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Method – 1:
This process also prevents scars development.
Ingredients:

• Lemon
• Cotton ball

Process:

• Use a cotton ball to apply lemon juice to the dark skin.
• Leave for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Lemon
• Knife

Process:

• Cut a lemon in half and rub it on the dark skin for 10 – 15 minutes.
• Rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Method – 3: (For Oily Skin)
Ingredients:

• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Rose water – 2 teaspoon
• Fuller’s earth – 1 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix lemon juice, rose water, and fuller’s earth.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 30 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly with best results.

Method – 4: (Dry Skin)
Ingredients:

• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Honey – 1 teaspoon
• Olive oil – 1 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix lemon juice, honey, and olive oil.
• Apply to the dark skin and gently massage for 3 – 5 minutes.
• Leave for 10 – 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
• Repeat regularly with best results.

Method – 5:
Ingredients:

• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix lemon juice and turmeric powder.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes or until dry and rinse with cold water.
• Repeat daily before bed for best results.

Method – 6:
Ingredients:

• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Powdered milk – 1 teaspoon
• Honey – 1 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix lemon juice, powdered milk, and honey.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes have natural bleaching and whitening properties that lighten skin. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and have astringent properties that make it great for treating black skin, especially for those suffering from acne-prone or oily skin. Its natural acidic composition balances skin pH to prevent excessive oil and make it look bright. Tomatoes contain anti-oxidant properties which fight against free radicals, maintaining younger-looking skin.
Method – 1:
Ingredient:

• Tomato – 1

Process:

• Apply tomato pulp to the dark skin and let dry.
• Apply a second layer of tomato pulp and let dry.
• Continue this process for 20 minutes.
• Rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Tomato juice – 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice – few drops

Process:

• Mix tomato juice and lemon juice.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.
• Note: Dilute with water if burning sensation occurs.

Method – 3:
This process is beneficial for those with dark skin caused by sunburn.
Ingredients:

• Tomato juice – 2 teaspoons
• Buttermilk – 4 tablespoons
• Cotton ball

Process:

• Mix tomato juice and buttermilk.
• Use a cotton ball to apply the juice to the affected area.
• Leave for 30 – 40 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Method – 4:
This process is beneficial for those with mixed or combination skin.
Ingredients:

• Tomato – 1
• Avocado – 1

Process:

• Mix tomato and small avocado pulp.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 30 – 45 minutes and rinse with warm water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Method – 5:
Ingredients:

• Tomato – 1
• Yogurt – 2 tablespoons

Process:

• Mix tomato pulp and yogurt.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.
• Note: Add 2 teaspoons of oatmeal to the mixture for added results.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in lactic acid and has bleaching properties that treat hyper-pigmented skin by suppressing melanin production. Lactic acid has gentle alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs act as an exfoliate that clears dead cells. This, in turn, helps give a brighter skin tone.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Yogurt

Process:

• Apply half a cup of plain, unflavored yogurt to the dark skin and gently massage.
• Leave for 3 – 5 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Oatmeal

Process:

• Mix yogurt, lemon juice, and oatmeal.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 25 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Method – 3:
Ingredients:

• Yogurt – 1 tablespoon
• Honey – 1 to 2 teaspoons

Process:

• Mix yogurt and honey.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 30 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

4. Licorice Root Extract

Licorice extract, easily found in health stores, is an Ayurvedic remedy that treats many skin ailments, dark circles, and even scars. Licorice has an active compound called glabridin that inhibits the enzyme which causes skin darkness due to sun exposure. This active compound decreases melanin production and balances skin cells. Licochalcone is an oil-controlling agent best remedy for those suffering from oily or acne-prone skin.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Licorice extract
• Cotton ball

Process:

• Use a cotton ball to apply licorice extract to the dark skin before going to sleep.
• Leave overnight and rinse with water the next morning.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Method – 2: (Licorice Face Mask)
Ingredients:

• Licorice extract – 2 to 5 drops
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
• Sandalwood paste – 1 tablespoon
• Tomato juice – 1 tablespoon
• Cucumber – 1

Process:

• Blend a cucumber pieces, lemon juice, sandalwood paste, tomato juice, and licorice extract to make a paste.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat twice weekly for best results.

5. Chickpea Powder or Gram Flour Mask:

Gram flour, used in Asia for many centuries, is used to make skin softer, smoother, and lighter. It acts as a natural exfoliate that clears dead skin cells and excess oil while transferring essential nutrients to the skin, making it glow naturally.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Chickpea flour – 1 tablespoon
• Honey – 1/2 teaspoon
• Milk cream – 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice – 2 to 5 drops

Process:

• Mix chickpea flour, honey, milk cream, and lemon juice.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
• Repeat regularly for a month for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Gram flour – 2 teaspoons
• Lemon juice – 2 to 4 drops
• Turmeric powder – 1/4 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix gram flour, lemon juice, and turmeric powder.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat weekly for best results.
• Note: Add sandalwood for an added soothing effect.

Method – 3:
Ingredients:

• Gram flour
• Water or rosewater

Process:

• Mix gram flour and either water or rose water.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

6. Milk

Calcium is the main ingredient in milk which regulates the skin’s normal coloration. Supplying the skin’s upper epidermis with higher calcium creates an effective barrier to fight against dryness. Regular calcium intake stimulates melanocytes produce melanin pigment. Lactic acid helps to reduce skin pigmentation, as well.
Ingredients:

• Milk – 1 cup
• Wash cloth

Process:

• Heat milk over medium heat.
• Use a washcloth to apply the warm milk to the dark skin and gently massage for 3 – 5 minutes.
• Repeat daily for two weeks for best results.

7. Oranges

Oranges contain vitamin C which is very essential for skin care. It also acts as bleaching agent to lighten up the skin tone. Remember that regular intake of either orange or its fresh juice will improve the overall skin texture and its suppleness. Here are two ways that has to be used to lighten up the skin with these oranges.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Orange juice – 2 tablespoons
• Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix orange juice and turmeric powder.
• Apply to the dark skin before going to sleep.
• Leave overnight and rinse with water the next morning.
• Repeat daily for best results.

Method – 2: (Orange Peel)

This process lightens facial skin, leaving it looking young and beautiful.
Ingredients:

• Orange peel
• Yogurt – 1 tablespoon

Process:

• Dry out an orange peel.
• Grind the peel into a powder and mix with plain, unflavored yogurt.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat 2 – 3 times weekly for best results.
• Note: Gently massage the mixture to remove blackheads.

8. Rice Powder

Commonly found in rice, para aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a natural sunscreen which raises vitamin C levels in the body. Rice contains ferulic acid, anti-oxidants, and vitamins E and C. These are essential for hydrating and protecting skin from harmful toxins.
Ingredients:

• Uncooked rice – 1/2 to 1 cup
• Milk
• Warm water

Process:

• Grind uncooked rice to make a powder and mix with milk.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse with warm water.
• Repeat 2 – 3 times weekly for best results.

9. Almond Oil:

Almond oil has various skin lightening compounds such as unsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, minerals, and vitamins E, B6, B2, PP (also called niacin or vitamin B3). Niacinamide is an active form of niacin which helps lighten unwanted skin pigmentation. In this way, almond oil lightens skin and provides an even skin complexion. Almond oil also effectively removes blemishes, prevents the formation of wrinkles, and makes skin glow.
Ingredients:

• Almond oil
• Steel bowl
• Bigger bowl
• Hot water
• Tissue paper

Process:

• Apply warm almond oil to the dark skin and gently massage for 10 – 15 minutes.
• Repeat daily for two weeks and then 2 – 3 times weekly for best results.
• Note: Apply before bed for added results.

10. Mulberry Extract:

Mulberry extract, commonly used in cosmetic products, helps inhibit tyrosinase activity, a main determinant of melanin production. If tyrosinase activity is not controlled during melanoma, it increases melanin synthesis causing dark pigmentation. Mulberry extract contains beneficial phenolic flavonoids, including gallic acid, quercetin and fatty acids like palmitic and linoleic acid. These are very beneficial for the skin.
Ingredients:

• Mulberry extract
• Skin lotion

Process:

• Add mulberry extract to any skin lotion.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Repeat twice daily for best results.

11. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera contains a compound called Aloesin which inhibits tyrosinase activity and regulates melanin production in the skin. Aloe vera gel leaves skin smooth, soft, and bright with its anti-oxidant properties.
Ingredients:

• Aloe vera leaf
• Knife

Process:

• Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf using a knife.
• Apply the gel to the dark skin.
• Repeat 4 times daily for two weeks and then twice daily for a month for best results.
• Note: Alternately use aloesin supplement extracted from an aloe vera plant (available at health stores) and apply 4 times daily.

12. Kojic Acid

Kojic acid, derived from mushrooms and other fungi, is a natural compound that inhibits tyrosinase activity and prevents melanin formation on the upper skin layer. Originating in Japan, kojic acid is considered the best natural skin whitener. Kojic acid can cause skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. Always test the acid on a small patch of skin before a full application to see how your body reacts.
Ingredients:

• Kojic acid – 1/2 to 1 teaspoon
• Regular gel, lotion, or cream

Process:

• Clean your face and neck with mild soap or gentle face wash.
• Add kojic acid to any regularly used gels, lotions, or creams.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Repeat twice daily for 1 – 2 months.

13. Honey

Honey bleaches and moisturizes the skin to rid dead skin cells and brighten skin tone. It also contains anti-bacterial properties that fade age spots, acne, and scars.
Method – 1:
This process removes dead skin cells and makes skin look young and bright.
Ingredients:

• Honey

Process:

• Apply pure, organic honey to the dark skin.
• Leave for 3 – 5 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

Method – 2:
This process removes and moisturizes dark, dry skin.
Ingredients:

• Honey – 1 teaspoon
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Powdered milk – 1 tablespoon
• Almond oil – 1/2 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix honey, lemon juice, powdered milk, and almond oil.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 10 – 20 minutes and rinse with cold water.
• Repeat every other day for best results.

14. Papaya:

Papaya lightens skin complexion as it has natural bleaching properties and many nutrients that give skin a natural glow.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Papaya – 1 piece

Process:

• Rub a piece of papaya on the dark skin.
• Leave until dry and rinse with cold water.
• Repeat daily for best results.
• Note: Eat papaya daily to clear impurities for added results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Ripe papaya
• Lemon juice – 1 cup

Process:

• Mix a mashed, ripe papaya and freshly-squeezed lemon juice
• Apply to the dark skin and massage for 3 – 5 minutes.
• Leave for 30 minutes and rinse with cold water.
• Repeat weekly for best results.

Method – 3:
This method reduces melanin production and lightens skin quickly.
Ingredients:

• Papaya
• Cotton ball

Process:

• Apply mashed papaya to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.
• Note: Alternately apply fresh papaya juice to the dark skin, leave for 20 – 30 minutes, and rinse with water.

15. Oatmeal

Oatmeal improves new skin cell growth, encouraging brighter skin tone. It exfoliates and clears dead skin cells, leaving skin soft and supple.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Oatmeal
• Tomato juice

Process:

• Mix oatmeal and tomato juice.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 20 minutes and rinse with cold water, gently scrubbing to rid dead skin cells.
• Repeat daily for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Oatmeal powder – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1/4 teaspoon
• Lemon drops – few drops

Process:

• Mix oatmeal powder, turmeric powder, and lemon juice.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave until dry and rinse with water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

16. Potato

Potato juice has mild bleaching properties and is rich in vitamin C. This naturally lightens skin by clearing dead skin cells and reduces melanin production preventing dark skin.
Ingredient:

• Potato
• Knife

Process:

• Peel the skin off a potato and cut it into pieces.
• Apply the juice by gently rubbing the potato pieces on the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse with water.
• Repeat twice weekly for best results.

17. Citrus Fruit Peels:

Citrus fruit rinds have hesperidin (a bioflavonoid) that inhibits the melanin synthesis without the cytotoxicity. This citrus bioflavonoid facilitates vitamin C production, one of the most beneficial ingredients for skin and immune system health. Use either orange or lemon rinds to lighten skin.
Ingredients:

• Lemon or orange rind
• Raw milk
• Air-tight container

Process:

• Dry out a lemon or orange rind in the sun and grind it to make a powder. (Note: store in an airtight container.)
• Mix the powder with milk to make a paste.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave until dry and rinse with warm water.
• Apply cool toner.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

18. Bearberry Extract:

Bearberry extract, obtained from the uva-ursi plant, has natural skin lightening and astringent properties widely used in cosmetic products. Bearberry extract contains two active compounds, arbutin and hydroquinone, that have amazing effects on dark skin.
These properties inhibit melanin and lighten skin. The natural hydroquinone, called carcinogenic, has anti-oxidant properties which cleanses skin and increases cell turnover, effectively shedding old skin cells to make skin brighter.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Full strength bearberry extract (Note: Avoid different concentrations of arbutin. Always use full strength berry extract.)
• Lotion or moisturizing cream

Process:

• Add full strength bearberry extract to your regular lotion or moisturizing cream.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Repeat daily for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Bearberry extract
• Glycerin
• Water

Process:

• Dilute bearberry extract in water.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Repeat twice daily for best results.

19. Cucumber:

Cucumber has a cooling effect when applied regularly and is suitable for all skin types. It binds collagen and ensures skin is firm and supple which, in turn, gives a light and even skin tone.
Method – 1:
Ingredients:

• Cucumber

Process:

• Apply cucumber slices to the dark skin.
• Leave for 10 – 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
• Repeat twice daily for best results.

Method – 2:
Ingredients:

• Cucumber – 1
• Honey
• Grating equipment

Process:

• Mix grated cucumber and honey.
• Apply to the dark skin as a mask.
• Leave for 15 – 30 minutes and rinse with cold water.
• Repeat twice daily for best results.

Method – 3:
Ingredients:

• Cucumber juice – 1 teaspoon
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon

Process:

• Mix lemon juice and cucumber juice.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave for 15 – 20 minutes or until dry and rinse with water.
• Repeat daily for best results.

20. Turmeric:

Turmeric is widely used in India to improve skin complexion as it builds melanin and maintains even skin tone. It has antiseptic and anti-oxidant properties that cure many skin and health ailments.
Ingredients:

• Turmeric powder
• Milk cream

Process:

• Mix turmeric powder and milk cream.
• Apply to the dark skin.
• Leave until dry and rinse with lukewarm water.
• Repeat regularly for best results.

Tips:

• Skin-lightening products should not be used for prolonged periods of time. This may lead to premature skin aging, sensitivity to UVA / UVB rays, and forms of skin cancer.
• Be aware that some natural bleaching agents (such as lemon and tomato) can cause allergy or skin irritation.
• Hydroquinone usage can lead to permanent skin discoloration and canker sores if taken orally.
• Avoid skin products containing mercury as it causes skin darkness.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol as they can cause skin to wrinkle.
• Sun is the cause of many different skin ailments. Always use sunscreen to keep your skin healthy.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, clear dead skin cells, and allow new cells to form to prevent dark skin.
• Always cleanse your skin regularly twice daily either using a foaming cleanser or a mild soap. Additionally, apply a good moisturizer or exfoliate your skin 1 – 2 times weekly to clear dead skin cells.
• Use gentle skincare products suitable for your skin type to avoid redness and irritation.
• Always remove your makeup before bed to avoid breakouts and clogged pores.
• Organic soaps like papaya soap help lighten the skin tone naturally. Apply moisturizer after use.
• Diet is always important. Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E and nutrients to help keep skin healthy. Additionally, eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables every day.
• Coconut oil or any natural carrier oil (almond oil, olive oil, etc.) will help to brighten skin tone, reduce scars, and moisturize skin. Apply the oil and massage the area daily.
• Wash the dark skin with raw milk in the morning daily for added results.