Blame it on the scorching heat, hormonal changes, aging or skin issues, dark spots and patches can be an unnerving experience. There’s no denying that dark spots also known as hyperpigmentation can be fixed instantly with home remedies, but topical application of certain remedies on a daily basis can give some positive results in lightening the dark spots and reducing the uneven pigmentation. Here are some age-old remedies that can significantly reduce the Hyperpigmentation and lighten the dark spots.

1. Raw potato slices

Rapid Home Remedies says potatoes are chock-full of nutrients, including B vitamins, which facilitate skin cell renewal, as well as niacinamide, known for its skin-lightening properties. (Who would’ve thought something as ordinary as a potato could be so dynamic?)

To combat the effects of hyperpigmentation, Rapid Home Remedies recommends rubbing a slice of raw potato over your face three to four times a day for up to 10 minutes at a time. If the potato feels too dry or abrasive, the site also suggest moistening the slice with water. Over time, you just may notice a reduction in your dark spots.

2. Plain yogurt

According to Holistic Health Herbalist, “yogurt contains lactic acid, a gentle but effective natural form of hydroxyl acid that exfoliates, softens skin, and lightens dark spots.” To give this natural remedy a shot, apply full-fat plain yogurt directly on your skin’s dark spots for 20 minutes at a time.

3. ​Aloe Vera Gel​

A simple remedy to fix hyperpigmentation and dark spots is by applying Aloe vera on cleansed skin. The presence of a compound called Aloin in the fresh aloe vera gel has been scientifically proven to reduce the dark spots and helps in lightening non-toxic hyperpigmentation. The best way to apply this is by extracting fresh aloe vera gel and applying it overnight and rinsing it off with water.

4. Apple cider vinegar

The folks at Health Ambitions report that apple cider vinegar is a multifaceted natural formula for clear, glowing skin (they note that even Scarlett Johansson swears by it). It’s particularly useful for treating dark spots, too. Just apply directly to any affected areas on the skin using a cotton ball. Health Ambitions recommends doing this regularly for at least a month. And if your skin is sensitive and direct application stings, try diluting the apple cider vinegar with water.

5. Turmeric

Since ages, Turmeric has been used in ubtans and home remedies to reduce pigmentation and brighten the skin. The best way to use turmeric is by making a paste by mixing turmeric powder with milk or honey, then apply it to the dark spots. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing off. Repeat this remedy a few times a week. The reason why turmeric is good for fading dark spots is because it inhibits the production of melanin, which is a pigment responsible for hyperpigmentation.

What do you think? Would you use any of these DIY beauty tips to combat your own dark spots? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and make sure to SHARE if you found these natural remedies useful!