Beauty

Whenever the hair follicles become inflamed with either bacterial or fungal infections then you will experience a skin condition called folliculitis. It appears as red bumps or white-headed pimples around the hair follicles. The infection spreads and turns into non-healing sores on the skin.

However, this health condition is not life-threatening but it can be itchy, painful and embarrassing on the skin. Make sure to consult your doctor if you experience more serious or recurring folliculitis for proper diagnose, treatment and medications.

There are two main types of folliculitis – superficial (involves part of the follicle) and deep (involves the entire follicle) in which deep folliculitis are severe form.

Forms of superficial folliculitis include bacterial folliculitis (caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria), hot tub or Pseudomonas folliculitis (caused by Pseudomonas bacteria that develop a rash of red round and itchy bumps), razor bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae (skin irritation caused by ingrown hair affects mostly men on the face, neck and groin areas of the skin) and pityrosporum folliculitis (caused by yeast infection that occurs as red itchy pustules on the neck, chest, back, upper arms and face).

Forms of deep folliculitis include boils or furuncles and carbuncles (caused when the hair follicles become deeply infected with staph bacteria), gram-negative folliculitis (develops as a side effect for taking long-term antibiotic therapy for acne), sycosis barbae (affects makes who have begun to shave), eosinophilic folliculitis (caused to the people with HIV/AIDS that has intense itching and recurring patches of bumps).

The signs and symptoms of folliculitis include clusters of small red bumps around the hair follicles, itching, burning sensation in and around the bumps, painful and tender skin, pus-filled blisters, swollen bumps, etc.

This folliculitis is caused by bacteria, fungi, virus or even an inflammation from the ingrown hairs. It occurs anywhere on the body where there is a friction except the soles, palms, lips and mucous membranes. It will go away on its own within 1 – 2 weeks but severe forms of infections can result in permanent hair loss and scarring.

Having medical condition (diabetes, HIV/AIDS, chronic leukemia), skin problems (acne or dermatitis), certain medications (steroid creams or long-term antibiotic therapy), male with curly hair, soaking in a uncleaned hot tub, shaving or waxing, wearing tight clothes, etc. are some causes for folliculitis.

Instead of using commercial cosmetic creams and OTC medications, why not give a trial to natural home remedies that effectively works to clear the problem without causing any side effects to the skin.

Home Remedies for Folliculitis:

Here are the simple yet effective remedies that provide relief from the folliculitis and its symptoms by accelerating the skin healing process.

Let’s get started…

Remedy – 1: (Warm Compress)

The first step you need to take while suffering from folliculitis is to apply warm compress. Applying warm compress on the affected area will help to calm down the irritation and reduces your pain. This will help to increase the circulation to the affected areas and thereby aids in quick healing of the skin.

• Pour 1 teaspoon of salt in a pot filled with 2 cups of water.
• Boil it for few minutes and wait till the water gets to lukewarm temperature.
• Then soak a soft towel in this water and wring out to remove excess water.
• Now place this warm, moist towel on the folliculitis affected area.
• Leave it for about 10 minutes and repeat the process once again.
• Continue doing the same cycle for 3 – 5 times daily until you get relief from these painful cysts.

Remedy – 2: (Turmeric)

Turmeric has an excellent compound called curcumin that exhibits antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to fight against the staph bacteria and other microbes causing folliculitis along with relieving your pain and itching.

Here are few ways of using turmeric for treating folliculitis.

• Pour enough olive oil (or melted coconut oil) in 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir well to make it a fine paste and apply this paste on the folliculitis affected areas. Leave it on for about an hour or two and then rinse the turmeric affected skin areas with water. Dry the area gently and repeat the same process for 2 – 3 times daily until you get complete relief from the problem.
• Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in 1 glass of warm milk and consume this turmeric milk drink for twice daily to strengthen your immunity and enhance healing process from inside the body.
• Also, consume turmeric in supplement form but make sure to consult your doctor for proper dosage before taking these supplements.
• When you observe the boil is on the head and about to burst then you have to apply a poultice to the cyst to prevent the spread of infection and to promote healing. Simply mix a pinch of turmeric and flour in some warm oil till it forms a thick paste. Apply this paste on the cotton or gauze and place it directly on the boil. Leave for overnight to burst and in the morning, clean and dress your wound.

Remedy – 3: (Tea Tree Oil)

Tea tree oil is another effective remedy that treats different skin disorders, including folliculitis. It has excellent antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to clear the infection quickly and also reduces the itching, redness, inflammation, and irritation.

Here are few ways of using tea tree oil for clearing folliculitis.

• Add 5 – 6 drops of tea tree oil in 2 – 3 tablespoons of coconut or olive oil. Stir well and use it to massage on the affected skin area. Wait for 1 – 2 hours and wash off with water. Repeat it once daily until you get rid of folliculitis and its symptoms.
• Moisten a cotton swab and pour 1 – 2 drops of tea tree oil to it and dab it gently on the folliculitis affected skin areas. Let it sit for an hour and rinse it with cool water. Dry the area gently and repeat this application twice daily until you notice the folliculitis gets disappeared completely from the skin.
• For treating scalp folliculitis, use tea tree oil based shampoo to prevent the infection and its recurrence. Simply pour few drops of tea tree oil in your regularly used mild shampoo and use it to rinse your hair.

Note: Never ever use tea tree oil directly on the affected skin without diluting it, as it causes irritation and itching sensation on the skin. If you’re first time user then make sure to perform a skin patch test before using it to know the possibility of getting an allergic reaction.

Remedy – 4: (Vinegar)

Vinegar is another inexpensive and effective natural remedy for treating folliculitis. You can use either white or apple cider vinegar for clearing this folliculitis. Vinegar exhibits antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that fight off the microbes causing infection.

It also helps to clear itching, pain, and inflammation and enhance the healing process to get rid of folliculitis quickly.

Here are few ways of using vinegar for folliculitis.

• Mix 1 part of organic, unfiltered ACV with 2 parts of lukewarm water and stir well. Apply it on the skin affected areas by using a cotton ball. Wait for 10 minutes and rinse off with water. Dry the skin and apply coconut oil to moisturize the area. Do it daily to get quick relief from folliculitis.
• For internal purpose, mix 1 – 2 teaspoons of ACV in 1 glass of lukewarm water and drink it 1 – 2 times daily to strengthen your immunity and heal the folliculitis affected skin.
• If using white vinegar, then soak a cotton ball in a white vinegar solution (1 tablespoon white vinegar in 2 cups of water) and apply it on the cysts. Press the ball firmly on the affected and leave it for 20 minutes. Repeat the same action for twice daily until you get relief from folliculitis (especially superficial one).

Remedy – 5: (Indian Lilac)

Indian lilac (neem) is an ancient Ayurvedic medicine for treating various health, skin and beauty problems with its antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. For treating folliculitis, neem works as a strong antibacterial agent that destroys the harmful bacteria causing folliculitis.

Neem has another excellent property of easing certain symptoms like pain, itching, burning sensation, and inflammation. Here are few ways of using neem for folliculitis.

• Take a handful of fresh neem leaves and grind it into a paste. Apply this paste on the cysts affected areas of the skin and wait for at least 30 minutes to rinse off the skin. Dry the skin and repeat it few times daily to prevent the infection and its spread to other skin parts.
• Pour few neem leaves in water and boil it for few minutes until the water quantity has reduced to 1/3 and turn off the heat. Use this neem water to rinse the folliculitis affected skin areas for few times daily.
• Add few drops of neem oil in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and apply it on the affected skin areas. Let it sit for about 15 – 20 minutes and wash it off with water. Dry the skin and repeat it 2 – 3 times daily.

Remedy – 6: (Garlic)

Garlic exhibits antibacterial, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that help to fight against the microbes causing infection. The rich content of sulphur (allicin) in garlic will help to prevent various skin disorders, including folliculitis.

• Take a garlic clove and cut it in half.
• Place the clove directly on the skin and you may experience burning sensation after applying garlic clove on the affected skin areas.
• Or simply apply a crushed garlic clove on the affected skin areas.
• Let it sit for few minutes and take out the cloves and rinse the area with cold water.
• Alternatively, consume raw garlic as a part of your diet or use garlic pills to cleanse and disinfect the body to get rid of the problem.

Remedy – 7: (Aloe Vera)

Aloe vera exhibits antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve your burning and itching sensations along with clearing the bacterial action on the skin. it helps a lot in moisturizing the skin and maintains pH balance for a faster healing.

Here are few ways of using aloe vera for folliculitis.

• Take an aloe leaf and cut it to open and remove the gel. Apply this fresh aloe gel on the skin affected areas and let it sit for an hour. After that, rinse off with water and do the same for twice daily for a week.
• Squeeze the juice of 1/2 a lemon and mix it in 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel. Stir well and apply it on the folliculitis affected skin areas. Leave it for 30 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. Do it once daily for about a week to get relief from folliculitis.

Remedy – 8: (Colloidal Silver)

Colloidal silver is another effective remedy that fights against the bacteria, fungi and other microbes causing the infection. It works immediately by dealing with the root cause of the problem.

• For external use, simply apply 2 – 3 drops of colloidal silver on the affected areas of the skin and cover it with a bandage. Repeat the same process for twice daily.
• Mix 1 – 2 teaspoons of colloidal silver in 1 glass of water and consume it twice daily. Prefer to drink it on an empty stomach. Continue this internal intake for a month to destroy the harmful bacteria and other germs within the body to get relief from folliculitis.

Remedy – 9: (Oregano Oil)

Oil of oregano contains potent compounds called terpenes and carvacrol that exhibit antibacterial property which used to fight against the bacteria and other microbes causing the infection. It has thymol compound that has natural fungicide and antiseptic properties.

It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in faster recovery and gives you complete relief from the problem.

Here are few ways of using oregano oil for folliculitis.

• Add 8 – 10 drops of oregano oil in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir well and apply it on the affected areas. Allow it to sit for a couple of hours and then rinse the area with lukewarm water. Dry the area gently and continue this application for 2 – 4 times daily till you noticed relief from this folliculitis.
• For internal intake – Pour 2 to 4 drop of oregano oil in 1 glass of water. Stir well and drink it to get rid of the cysts. Drink it twice daily for quick relief from the problem. Remember that pregnant or nursing women should not ingest oregano oil, as it causes some side effects on their health.

Remedy – 10: (Rubbing Alcohol)

The disinfectant properties of rubbing alcohol will treat the folliculitis by promoting the healing process and thereby clears the infection. It has soothing and cooling properties that help to relieve your discomforting symptoms like itching, irritation, pain, and swelling.

• Take a cotton swab and soak it in rubbing alcohol (contains 70% strength).
• Dab it gently on the affected areas and wait for 10 minutes.
• After that, rinse the area with lukewarm water.
• Continue doing the same process for twice daily until 3 – 4 days to get relief from the problem.

Note: Over usage of rubbing alcohol will result in skin dryness and worsen the problem.

Remedy – 11: (Thyme)

Thyme is a popular Italian seasoning herb that not only used to add flavor to the dish but also used as an herbal medicine. It contains a chemical compound called thymol that clears the staphylococcus infection on the skin’s surface.

• Add few drops of lavender oil and an equal amount of thyme oil and bergamot oil in clean water.
• Stir well and apply this mix on the affected areas.
• Let it sit for few minutes and rinse the area with water.
• Reapply this mix for 2 – 3 times daily for 6 days to notice the complete removal of this problem.

Remedy – 12: (Goldenseal)

Goldenseal, when taken internally, will help to fight off the infection and clear the symptoms like pain, swelling and helps to burst out the cyst for a faster recovery with its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.

Here are few ways of using goldenseal for treating folliculitis.

• Boil few goldenseal leaves in water for few minutes till it becomes concoction and strain it to drink it warm for getting relief from the Staphylococcus aureus folliculitis.
• Make a paste by mixing powdered goldenseal and water and apply this paste directly on the affected skin areas. Cover the area with a clean bandage and leave it for overnight. Remove the bandage in the next morning and clean the area. Repeat it regularly.

Note: Just like goldenseal, drink honeysuckle concoction to clear the bacteria and repeat it until you get relief from the problem.

Tips and Precautions:

1. Using African black soap which has natural healing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, palm oil, cocoa and vitamin E that helps to keep the affected area well moisturized. It also helps to give relief from pain, itching, and inflammation. Use it as a soap or shampoo regularly to get rid of the problem.
2. For severe forms of folliculitis, use over the counter antibiotics that available in gel or cream form other than using these remedies.
3. Avoid shaving while suffering from this infection and if you what to shave then use an electric razor. Make sure to shave it in the direction of the hair growth.
4. Avoid the usage of public hot tubs or heated pools, as they may or may not be cleaned regularly and may contain contaminated water.
5. Don’t wear tight clothes why because they cause friction and may result in the formation of cysts and worsen the problem. So, always wear loose fitting clothes to avoid friction or rub against the body.
6. Take your bath or shower daily with a mild soap (or antibacterial soap), especially after your workouts and working around the chemicals will help to keep your skin clean and prevent clogging of hair follicles and spreading of folliculitis on the skin.
7. Frequently wash your hands to prevent the spread of infection and to get rid of the problem quickly. Also, clean the boil affected area with antibacterial soap to clean and dress the boils but be sure to avoid touching the affected areas.
8. Overuse of makeup or skin oils will clog the skin pores and thereby trap the bacteria to cause folliculitis. So, avoid the usage of this skin oils or makeup and clean your skin frequently to get rid of dust, dirt, other impurities and the excess oil clogging the skin pores.
9. Avoid getting into contact with any irritating substance that causes irritation to your boils and worsens the infection.
10. Drink plenty of water and other healthy fluids to stay hydrated and to flush out the toxins from the body. It also helps to stimulate the immune system to prevent infection.
11. Don’t share your personal belonging like towels, washcloths, combs, water bottles, etc. to anyone while suffering from infection to prevent its spread.
12. Always change your bed sheets and wash them in hot water to prevent the spread of infection or bacterial action.
13. Scratching your bumps will worsen the infection and makes you feel pain. So, avoid scratching them.
14. Use other natural remedies like oatmeal (anti-itching and skin soothing properties), coconut oil (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties along with skin moisturizing), witch hazel (anti-itching and anti-inflammatory), etc. to treat folliculitis.

Final Word:

Use all these home remedies to get relief from folliculitis and its symptoms but make sure to consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, if suffering from severe form of folliculitis.

Do you know any other successful natural remedies for folliculitis? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.

In general, scabs are defined as the natural process that protects your skin from bleeding injuries through the creating of a hard coating. With the appearance of scabs, we came to know that healing process has begun and it becomes a challenging to remove these scars entirely.

After healing the skin, the scabs may remove on its own but few remain on the skin and make you feel embarrassed and ugly. Always remember that never ever physically pick at the scabs, as it increases the chances of getting infection or scar on the skin.

However, there are many expensive cosmetic and OTC creams available in the market but instead of investing money in those harsh chemical based creams why don’t you try some natural ways to get rid of scabs without causing scars or side effects on the skin.

The usage of home remedies will definitely help you in getting rid of scabs on the skin and also heals your skin completely in a natural way that provides long-lasting results.

The most important thing to remember is that before using any of the below-mentioned remedies, make sure that the scab is completely dried without oozing pus for getting faster and effective relief.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Scabs:

Here is the list of home remedies that help you to get complete relief from the scabs. All you need is to follow these remedies for several times to observe the effective results of removing scabs on the skin.

Remedy – 1: (Warm Compress)

A warm compress will help to get rid of scabs by dissolving the scab area with its moisture and also enhance the skin to heal quickly.

• Boil a pot of water for few minutes and take a soft towel to soak in this warm water.
• Wring out the towel to remove excess water and press it on the scabs.
• Press the towel gently onto the scab but don’t pull or scrub your skin, as it causes more scarring or results in infections.
• Repeat the same process for few times daily until you get relief from scabs.
• Remember that after removing scab from the skin, you have to apply Neosporin or bacitracin to heal the scab affected area faster and to reduce the risk of infection and prevent the formation of a new scab.

Note: Or simply soak the scab by using a cotton ball dipped in water. This will soften the scab and make it fall off easily without leaving scars on the skin.

Remedy – 2: (Epsom Salt)

Epsom salt (or magnesium sulfate) is well known for its calming abilities. It relieves the tenderness and reduces the redness caused by the scab. This salt can tighten the scab and soaking in water will moisturize it to remove from the skin.

• Pour some Epsom salt in warm water and stir well until the salt dissolved in this water.
• Soak the scab affected skin area in this water for about 45 – 60 minutes.
• After that, take out the scab area from the water and dry it gently with a soft towel.
• Continue doing the same process regularly until you find the scab removed completely.

Remedy – 3: (Baking Soda)

Baking soda exhibits antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties that help to clear bacteria or fungus living in and around the scab areas. It draws out the scab gently from the skin with its skin tightening property.

• Place 1 – 2 teaspoons of baking soda in a bowl.
• Stir well by adding enough water till it forms a fine paste.
• Apply this paste on the scab and its surrounding areas.
• Wait for few minutes to get dried naturally.
• Rinse the skin thoroughly with warm water and continue this application until the scab is removed completely.
• For best results, use this process after soaking in the bath.

Remedy – 4: (Potassium Alum)

The aluminum salt (or potassium alum) acts as a natural astringent, deodorant or styptic agent that work same as baking soda. It tightens the skin where scab is affected and then loosens it. It works well by constricting the surrounding blood vessels.

• Grind a small amount of potassium alum and mix it enough water to make a fine paste.
• Apply this paste on the whole scab and leave it for few minutes to dry naturally.
• Continue this process regularly till the scab is gone completely on the skin.
• For best results, follow this process after your bath to get complete relief from scabs.

Remedy – 5: (Honey)

Honey exhibits humectant, antiseptic, antimicrobial and skin soothing properties that kill the bacteria in and around the scab and clean the affected areas. It moisturizes the skin to get rid of scabs quickly without forming scars on the skin.

• Apply raw honey on the scab and leave it for few minutes.
• After that, rinse the area and dry the skin gently with a soft towel.
• Repeat the application of honey regularly until you get rid of scabs.

Remedy – 6: (Tea Tree Oil)

The antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, astringent and antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil will help to cure scabs effectively.

• Dilute few drops of tea tree oil in any carrier oil (or water).
• Take a cotton ball and soak it in this oil mix and apply it gently on the scabs.
• Let it sit for few minutes and you may experience some stinging sensation on the oil applied areas.
• Finally, rinse off with water and repeat it regularly to heal the scabs and the scars on the skin.

Note: Or apply tea tree oil directly on the scab for removing it.

Remedy – 7: (Aloe Vera)

Aloe vera exhibits antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to heal the scab. It also improves the circulation within small blood vessels and heals the scabs, scrapes or bruises. Regular application will definitely help to get rid of scab and heals deeper wounds on the skin.

• Take an aloe vera leaf and extract its gel properly.
• Now apply this aloe gel on the wound where scab has occurred on the skin.
• Wait for few minutes and rinse off with water.
• Dry the skin gently and continue applying aloe vera gel or juice for 3 – 4 times daily until you get complete relief from the problem.

Remedy – 8: (Plantain Leaves)

The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of plantain leaves will make it as an excellent remedy for treating scabs, cuts, and scars on the skin.

• Extract the juice of 10 plantain leaves and apply it on the scab affected skin areas.
• Leave it for few minutes and repeat the same process regularly to speed up the recovery time.

Remedy – 9: (Onions)

Onion is another effective remedy that used to heal the wound and clear scab with its antimicrobial, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Take an onion and cut it.
• Then pound (crush) the chopped onion by mixing 1 teaspoon of raw honey.
• Stir well to make a paste and apply it on the scabs.
• Let it sit for 10 – 15 minutes and rinse off with water.
• Dry the skin gently and do the same for 3 – 4 times daily to get quick and effective results.

Remedy – 10: (Apple Cider Vinegar)

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps to maintain proper pH balance of the body and thereby improves cell growth and give relief from the scabs. It also exhibits antimicrobial, astringent, anti-inflammatory properties that help to get rid of scabs.

• Pour 5 ml of ACV in 50 ml of water and stir well.
• Dip a cotton ball in this water and apply it directly on the scab.
• Leave it for about 15 – 20 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
• Do the same process few times daily to notice the removal of scabs without forming scars.

Remedy – 11: (Garlic)

From ancient days, garlic has been used as a natural cure to scabs and scars on the skin with its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.

• Take 2 – 3 cloves of garlic and blend it with a cup of wine.
• Let it sit for a couple of hours and strain the mix.
• Now apply this mix on the scabs by using a cotton ball.
• Leave for 10 minutes and rinse off with water.
• Make sure that not to leave the garlic mix more than 10 minutes on the skin why because it causes skin irritation.

Know More about How to Get Rid of Nasal Scabs

Tips and Precautions:

1. Apply vitamin E oil (or vitamin E rich oils) topically on the scabs and scars to reduce their severity and to remove it quickly.
2. Avoid touching the scab frequently, as it results in scarring and increasing the infection.
3. Never ever pick at the scab (especially stuck scab), as it will irritate the skin, leaves scars and thereby make it to take a longer time to heal completely.
4. Applying makeup on the scab will clog the skin and prolongs its healing time. So, avoid applying makeup to cover the scabs.
5. Usage of OTC medications like Neosporin will work well in getting rid of the scab and heals the skin quickly.
6. Clean all around the scab with an antiseptic soap and warm water. Dry it and moisten the area with an antibacterial ointment (or petroleum jelly). Then cover the scab with a sterile non-adhesive bandage or gauze wrap. Leave it like that and make sure to do the same dressing process daily until your scab removed completely along with healing your skin.
7. Always remember that scabs may itch during the skin healing process, as the new skin may cause itching after the scab has fallen off. It is a normal process in which you should not scratch your skin. At that time, massage your scab affected area with petroleum jelly or moisturizing lotion.
8. Drink plenty of water and consume a healthy diet (includes vitamin C) to heal the skin quickly and prevent the formation of scars after removing scabs.
9. Avoid the sun exposure, as the sun’s harmful UV rays will damage the skin and prolongs the healing period.
10. Limit or stop alcohol consumption and quit smoking, as they impair the blood flow to chronic wounds and compromises healing.
11. Consult your doctor if you didn’t get relief from the problem, even after using these natural ways for proper diagnose and treatment to get rid of the scabs and to heal the skin completely.

Final Word:

Follow all these natural remedies to get rid of scabs naturally. Do you know any other successful scab removal remedies? Then share it with us in the below comments box.

Who doesn’t like to have a flawless, lighter and younger looking skin? But due to stress, pollution, unhealthy poor diet, environmental irritants, aging, prolonged exposure to the sun, dry skin, usage of harsh chemical based cosmetic products, certain skin related medical problems, poor lifestyle habits, etc. will increase the melanin content and thereby make your skin gets dark, pigmented and blemished.

In the commercial skin care products, there are some harmful chemicals like paraben, BHA, lanolin, and BHT that provide an instant glow to your skin quickly but will definitely harm your skin in the longer run. So, don’t rush for a commercial chemical based skin whitening products which are available in the market.

The Mother Nature has provided so many natural ingredients to enhance our beauty. So, use the natural remedies to lighten your skin without any side effects or damage on your skin and in a cost-effective manner.

The general skin care routine for maintaining a healthy and glowing skin is to cleansing (remove dust, oil and other impurities from the skin), exfoliation (that scrub off the accumulated dead skin), toning (tone up the skin to shrink open large pores), Mask (this reenergize and rejuvenate the skin), moisturizing (lock the moisture and nourish your skin).

So, here in this article, we are providing you some of the best natural ingredients that perform the above-mentioned skin care routine and thereby lightens your skin to make it beautiful and glowing.

Home Remedies to Lighten your Skin Naturally:

Have a look at these natural remedies to brighten and lighten your complexion by controlling the melanin production in the body. Let’s get started…

Remedy – 1: (Yogurt)

Yogurt is considered as a by-product of milk that exhibits many essential nutrients required for the skin. It contains lactic acid which in turn helps to exhibit bleaching and exfoliating properties to lighten your skin. Here yogurt acts as a skin cleanser.

Regular usage of yogurt will remove the excess oil, grime and other impurities from the deep layers of the skin to lighten the skin.

• Take some plain unflavored yogurt and spread it on the skin where you’re experiencing dark or dull skin.
• Massage gently for few minutes and let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry your skin.
• Repeat the same process for once or twice daily till your skin gets lightened.
• For best and quick results, add some honey or lemon juice with oatmeal to this yogurt before application and stir it to apply all over the skin.

Remedy – 2: (Oranges)

The rich content of vitamin C and bleaching properties in oranges will help to lighten your skin tone. In a study, it is proved that regular consumption of fresh orange juice will improve the overall texture of the skin and keep the skin healthy.

Here are few ways of using orange for lightening your skin.

• Mix a pinch of turmeric powder in 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice. Stir well and apply this mix on the clean face and neck at night before bedtime. Wait for 20 – 30 minutes and rinse your skin with water. You can also apply this mix on the hands and legs. Do it once daily to get rid of the dark skin.
• Dry some orange peels and powder it. Take 1 tablespoon of powdered peeled powder with 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt to make a fine paste. Slather this paste on the skin as a mask where you’ve dark and dull skin. Wait for 15 – 20 minutes and rinse off with water to lighten the spots and marks on the skin. Do it once or twice daily.

Remedy – 3: (Sugar)

The fine texture of sugar will make it as an excellent exfoliating agent the clears dead cells and encourage the growth of new skin cells. It removes the cells which are damaged by the sun and also enhance the collagen production by improving blood circulation.

• Add 2 tablespoons of raw honey in 3 tablespoons of sugar (prefer brown sugar) in a bowl.
• Stir well to make a thick scrub paste and apply it as a layer on the skin.
• Then start massaging gently in circular motions for few minutes.
• Let it sit for another few minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
• Continue doing the same process for twice a week on regular basis to enjoy healthy and glowing skin.

Note: Or simply mix olive oil or coconut oil or essential oils, oatmeal, chocolate or any fruit pulp with this sugar mix and use it as your scrub.

Remedy – 4: (Gram Flour)

Gram flour acts as an excellent exfoliating agent that clears dead skin, excess oil and other impurities on the skin and also encourages the production of new skin cells. It effectively tightens your skin and thereby removes fine lines and wrinkles on the skin.

• Mix enough water (or rose water or raw milk or lemon juice) in 3 teaspoons of gram flour until it forms a thick paste.
• Apply it on the skin and massage gently (like a scrub) for few minutes.
• Leave it for few minutes and rinse off with water.
• Dry your skin and continue doing the same process for 2 – 3 times a week on regular basis.
• For best results, add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in this Gramflour mix before application.

Remedy – 5: (Lemons)

The vitamin C and acidic nature of lemon will make it work as a natural bleaching agent that encourages your new cell growth and also antioxidants in it help to fight against the free radicals and enhance your skin complexion.

Here are few ways of using lemon to lighten your skin.

• Take a cotton ball and dip it in a bowl of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Apply it directly on the face and skin (or rub the lemon piece directly on the skin). Wait for few minutes and rinse your skin with water. Continue this application regularly to lighten your skin complexion and to prevent the formation of scars on the skin.
• Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in 3 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice until it forms a fine paste. Apply it on the skin where you’ve dark or dullness. Leave it for 30 minutes and rinse your skin with lukewarm water. Repeat the same process for once daily.
• Add 1 teaspoon each of powdered milk, raw honey, and fresh lemon juice together in a bowl. Stir to make a fine paste and slather it on the dark skin. Rinse it off with water after 15 – 20 minutes. Dry your skin and continue doing it for once daily or once in every other day. For best results, add 1/2 teaspoon of almond oil to this lemon mix and apply it on the skin.

Note: Make sure that not to apply this lemon juice on the open wounds or sensitive skin, as it causes irritation and burning sensation on the skin.

Remedy – 6: (Aloe Vera Gel)

The rich content of water, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes, etc. will help to hydrate the skin, reduces pigmentation by slowing down the melanin production and moisturizes your skin.

• Take an aloe vera leaf and cut it to extract its gel.
• Apply this fresh aloe vera gel on the face, neck, and hands.
• Massage gently for few minutes and wash it off with water after 30 minutes.
• Continue this process for twice daily to lighten your skin.

Note: Pineapple also helps to lighten your dark skin with its enzymes and vitamin C content. So, grind some pineapple chunks to make a paste and add few drops of fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel in it. Stir well and apply it on the skin as a mask and rinse off few minutes.

Remedy – 7: (Papaya)

Papaya is an excellent fruit for the skin care, as it not only lightens your skin complexion with its bleaching property but also provides your skin with all essential nutrients that prevent skin from sagging and thereby makes your skin glow naturally.

Here are few ways of using papaya as a fruit mask to enhance your natural beauty.

• Take few pieces of papaya (ripe) and blend it to make a fine paste. Apply it on the skin as a mask and wait for 20 – 25 minutes. After it gets dried, rinse your skin with water and pat dry. To grab extra benefits, you can add honey, rice flour, gram flour or oatmeal to this papaya before application.
• Papaya has a cleansing property that cleanses your skin to clear impurities acting as a shade to your beauty. So, consume papaya as a fruit to enhance your inner beauty.
• Take a ripe papaya and mash it to make a paste and add 1 cup of fresh lemon juice to it. Stir well and use it to massage it all over the face and neck. Wait for 30 minutes and rinse with cold water. Repeat the same process for once a week on the regular basis till you observe results.

Note: You can also use other fruits like pineapple, strawberry, avocado, apples, kiwi, banana and other berries other than papaya to enhance your natural skin glow.

Remedy – 8: (Milk)

Milk acts as a wonderful cleanser that makes your skin smooth and radiant and also suitable for all skin types. It contains fat-soluble enzymes lipase that clears the oil-soluble impurities and protein-based impurities from the skin.

Here are few ways of using raw milk to enhance your natural skin glow.

• Soak a cotton ball in a bowl filled with raw milk and wring out to remove the excess milk. Use this ball to wipe out the skin and let it sit for few minutes until it dries. Wash the skin with lukewarm water and dry it. Do the same for twice daily.
• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder in 1 teaspoon of milk cream until it forms a thick paste. Apply it on the skin and wait for few minutes until it dries. Then rinse your skin with lukewarm water and repeat the same application regularly for skin whitening.
• Simply grind oatmeal into a powder and mix with enough milk (or yogurt or buttermilk or fruit pulp) to make a fine paste and use it massage your skin for few minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water followed by cold water. Do it 2 – 3 times a week regularly.
• Rice flour acts as a sunscreen and protects your skin from harmful sun’s UV rays. Mix few drops of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of milk in 2 tablespoons of rice flour till it forms a thick paste. Spread it on the clean face, neck, legs, and hands. Rinse off with water after 20 minutes and repeat it regularly.

Remedy – 9: (Cucumber)

Cucumber acts as a toner that removes the leftover bits of dirt and oil from the skin. The astringent property of cucumber will shrink your open pores and hydrates your skin.

Here are few ways of using cucumber to bind your collagen and makes your skin firm and shine with an even tone.

• Grate cucumber and extract its juice. Apply this fresh cucumber juice on the skin and leave it to dry naturally. Wash the cucumber applied areas with water and repeat it twice daily.
• Chop cucumber into slices and place it directly on the dark areas of the skin. Let it sit for about few minutes and remove them. Rinse off with lukewarm water and continue it for twice daily.
• Mix 1 teaspoon each of fresh cucumber juice and fresh lemon juice and apply it on the face and neck. Let it sit for 15 – 20 minutes or till it dries completely. Rinse with water and repeat it once daily.

Remedy – 10: (Shea Butter)

Shea butter has fatty acids and natural vitamins that help to nourish and moisturize your dry skin and also protect it from external irritants by forming a protective layer on the skin.

• Take a small amount of shea butter and apply it all over the skin.
• Massage gently all over the skin and leave it for few hours or overnight.
• Repeat it regularly to nourish and moisturize your skin and thereby enhance your natural beauty.

Note: Or simply apply cocoa butter or natural oils on the skin and massage gently for few minutes. Leave it for few hours to overnight and rinse off with water. Repeat it daily to get rid of the dark and dull skin.

Other Successful Remedies:

• Both baking soda and activated charcoal act as excellent cleansers that help to remove the dust, oil grimes, dirt, toxins and other impurities in the skin pores. Mix few drops of water in activated charcoal or baking to make a fine paste. Apply it on the skin and rinse off with lukewarm water after 5 – 10 minutes. Do it regularly to enjoy a healthy and glowing skin.
• Sea salt or Epsom salt or kosher salt exfoliates your skin to remove the dead skin cells, toxins and other impurities along with controls the sebum production with its grainy texture. Mix 5 drops of essential oil and 1/2 cup of almond oil in 1 cup of salt. Stir and store it in an airtight container. Apply this mix to scrub your skin while taking bath and rinse with water. Dry your skin and do it twice a week regularly.
• Coffee is an excellent exfoliating agent that reduces cellulite temporarily by improving blood circulation and soothes your skin. Mix 1/2 teaspoon each of melted coconut oil and finely ground coffee beans until it forms a fine scrub paste. Spread it on the skin and massage gently for few minutes. Rinse off your skin with warm water and then cold water. Do it 2 – 3 times a week until you get relief from the darkness.
• Also, apply witch hazel and rose water (acts as toners) by simply applying it to the affected skin areas by using a cotton ball. Leave it till it dries completely on the skin and rinse off with water.

Tips and Precautions:

1. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to flush out the harmful toxins from the skin.
2. Consume foods that are rich in vitamin C, magnesium, omega fatty acids, flavonoids, etc. that help to lighten your skin and clean the pores.
3. Intake of certain foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, beetroots, soybeans, leafy greens, dark chocolates and other foods which are yellow or red in color to prevent the attack of free radicals and to glow inside.
4. Avoid the intake of oily, junk or fried foods, as they exhibit negative impact on the health and thereby increases your skin problems.
5. Regularly apply sunscreen lotion before stepping out to prevent the damage caused by sun’s harmful rays.
6. Rinse your skin at night before bedtime to remove the makeup and also to close the skin pores to prevent skin problems.
7. Always choose natural creams, lotions, and other skin care products which are free from harsh chemicals or contains less chemicals.
8. Be gentle on your skin and use natural product based soaps, lotions, creams, face washes, etc.
9. Exercise regularly, sleep for 7 hours and perform yoga and meditation to get rid of stress and thereby to enhance your natural glow.

Hope you find this article useful and do you know any other successful natural remedies for skin lightening? Then share your experience with us in the below comments box.