Pigmentation spots are of several types. Although they may be considered unsightly, they do not pose an immediate health hazard. The complexion lacks uniformity and this can affect our self-esteem and self-confidence.
However, this is an area where you need to take some information into account so as not to rush into impulse purchases. Indeed, by adopting certain cosmetics, you can improve or worsen the situation. In this article, we will deal with natural care only.

Pigmentation spots: there are differences!

There are several types and it is important to understand their origin. Let's start by defining them: "Hyperpigmentation refers to excessive deposits of melanin in the skin. This pigment is formed in melanocytes (specialized skin cells) and then accumulates in the surrounding dermal cells. Hyperpigmentation affects either parts of the skin, i.e. its entire surface. Moles and freckles or age spots are classic examples of limited hyperpigmentation."

The different types are:

• lentigines
• Melasmas
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Phototoxic stains

How to recognize the nature of your pigment spots?

Lentigines are round or oval in shape, small and dark. They appear with excessive sun exposure or if you work outdoors. They can thus be found on all the uncovered parts of your body.

A little tip for lentigines: protect yourself with a natural sunscreen whether you are black or white.
Then, to amplify its protective benefits, you can spread a very thin layer of our creamy organic shea butter under it. Indeed, our grand cru shea from Ghana is rich in karitene, vitamin A and terpene alcohols which absorb part of the UV rays and reinforce the activity of sunscreens. By using it throughout the year, you fortify your skin and protect it from the effects of the cold and the sun. This is also one of the many beauty secrets of African women!

Are you pregnant or in menopause? Do you take any medications like birth control pills? Your spots may be melasmas. They are characterized by dark areas, irregular in shape, and can be extensive. They affect up to 90% of pregnant women due to hormonal changes.

They can be difficult to treat, but natural solutions like the ones in this article and patience can fade them over time. As for the pregnancy mask, it normally fades within 6 months after delivery, otherwise do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or HPI can be treated well and fade over time. These are residual stains that persist after skin conditions such as acne have healed.

Some pigment spots are due to phototoxic reactions because the skin has been exposed to certain perfumes or drugs. Avoid putting perfumes directly on the skin (neck, wrist). We advise you to perfume your clothes only.

How to treat hyperpigmentation naturally and effectively?

Exfoliation is important to remove dead cells. If your spots are recent (less than 2 months), then it's time to add exfoliation to your skincare routine because the pigment spots could be located just on the upper layers of the skin. This exfoliation operation eliminates it by promoting cell renewal.

To be carried out every 2 weeks or once a month depending on your skin type.

It requires cosmetics and gentle gestures so as not to irritate it even more.

Our 5 natural remedies are:

1- A scrub followed by a mask

In a bowl

• mix 2 tablespoons of carrier oil or our Nour Cleansing Oil (contains celery essential oil to fight stains)
• then a tablespoon of coffee grounds or brown sugar. You can add a pinch of honey to add sweetness.

Massage in circular movements then rinse with lukewarm water. Always follow with a mask and then apply a serum to the face.

2- Parsley

An infusion of organic parsley. Soak a cotton pad with the lotion and apply morning and evening. Leave on for 10 minutes then rinse.

3- Apple cider vinegar

Mix equal parts water and organic cider vinegar. Apply it at night only. Let dry and rinse with lukewarm water.

4- Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that promotes the repair of damaged cells and strengthens healthy cells. You can get capsules or use our beauty routines with precious oils from Africa. They are naturally rich in vitamin E.

We recommend more specifically the Nour routine, which is formulated to even out the complexion of oily skin, to fight against excess sebum and pimples.

5- Your diet

Regularly eat nuts that are rich in vitamin E such as sunflower seeds or almonds.
Vegetables like spinach, asparagus, broccoli,...
Fruits like pineapple, papaya, or apple.

As a reminder, these spots are often benign but it is important to monitor their development and their change in appearance with a dermatologist. Indeed, they will check with the help of a biopsy, if it is not a melanoma, that is to say, a cancer of the skin.

Some bonuses

• Pay attention to your pillow, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria. It should be washed regularly in very hot temperatures. Otherwise, there are buckwheat cushions known for their comfort and repelling dust mites.

• Preferably use less toxic and less polluting detergents. Your skin is in constant contact with the laundry.

• The obligatory cleaning of the skin every evening in order to eliminate impurities and not to clog the pores. It is important to adopt a healthy beauty routine in order to avoid the appearance of new spots.

• Never scratch a pimple even if you really want to.

To conclude, pigment spots are the consequence of hormonal dysfunction in your body. Now is the time to be kind and listen.
Above all, don't rush into the frantic purchase of beauty products or consider whitening treatments. They can cause irreversible damage! It is rather the time to turn to care that is more respectful of your well-being.
I recommend you to do an introspection on your habits and your way of life. And if necessary, consult a specialist for medical or laser treatment.

Have you identified the nature of your pigment spots? Give us your opinion in the comments.

With love,

Dado Bathily