7 easy and affordable ways to whiten your face at home

Unsightly dark marks can appear at any age. It will not be possible to properly disguise them with decorative cosmetics, but it is quite possible to whiten age spots on the face at home or in a beauty salon. The main thing is to first find out the cause of pigmentation and choose the most effective way to combat it.

Why do you need to whiten your skin?

Pigmentation is the result of excessive production of melanin pigment or its uneven distribution in the layers of the epidermis.

The disorder develops for various reasons. The most common of them:

• hormonal imbalances (including during pregnancy or menopause);
• excessive passion for tanning;
• use of low-quality cosmetics;
• age-related changes;
• improper body care;
• taking certain medications (for example, oral contraceptives);
• diseases of internal organs.

Genetics plays a big role. Thus, freckles or moles are passed on to people “by inheritance.”

Attention: some dark formations must not be bleached! Before experimenting with creams and cosmetic treatments, you should consult your doctor!

You can whiten your facial skin:

• if stains spoil the appearance;
• after excessive tanning;
• when the skin has acquired an unsightly shade due to an illness;
• if the marks remain after injury, acne, or unsuccessful cleansing manipulation.

In most cases, there is no physiological need to get rid of such features of appearance, but it is worth lightening age spots if they cause psychological discomfort. This can be done in a beauty salon or at home.

Is it possible to lighten your skin at home?

The most favorable time for lightening facial skin is the autumn-winter period, when solar activity is not too high. It is not recommended to resort to such procedures in the summer, since cosmetic preparations are not effective when interacting with ultraviolet rays. Moreover, skin lightening is a process that every girl can implement on her own, without spending a lot of money and time on going to the salon.

The lightening procedure itself occurs in two stages. The first stage is characterized by a pharmacological or cosmetic reduction in the amount of melanin in skin cells. The second stage is scrubbing, that is, removing the keratinized epithelium using a scrub. During these activities, pigment spots disappear from the face, and the overall skin color becomes more even and soft. Also, exfoliation can reduce the level of pigment components in the skin, and, consequently, make the face paler.

It is worth noting that home correction products can be represented by creams and other cosmetic products from manufacturers of modern cosmetics, as well as formulations prepared at home. The impact of products, both branded and homemade, on the skin is different in each individual case. The effect depends on the personal properties and parameters of the dermis, which makes it difficult to select the appropriate composition for individual personal care.

Review of effective skin whitening creams

The choice of whitening face creams for age spots is huge. Similar products are produced by all well-known cosmetics manufacturers.

According to consumer reviews, the following creams effectively even out the complexion:

• Skinolite is a Russian-made whitening cream based on bearberry and licorice root extracts. Additional active ingredients are peptides, azelaic and hyaluronic acids. It is acceptable to apply the product at night or use it as a base for makeup. It has a light pleasant smell and sun protection components. The only drawback is the long absorption;

• EO LABORATORIE is a drug in an affordable price category. It does not solve serious problems with pigmentation, but it makes rashes much lighter and evens out the overall complexion. The active ingredients are plant extracts and oils;

• Bergamo Moselle Whitening EX Whitening Cream is an example of high-quality Korean cosmetics. The cream has a general healing effect on the dermis. Olive leaf extract activates the production of your own collagen, increases the tone and elasticity of the skin. Chamomile extract tightens pores, relieves inflammation, hyaluronic acid provides intense hydration and stimulates cellular renewal. Dark pigment spots noticeably fade within a week after starting to use the cream. The face looks fresh and rested;

• Evinal with extracts of calendula and parsley helps fight age-related pigmentation, eliminates the consequences of pregnancy, smoking, and excessive tanning;

• Clearly Corrective Brightening and Smoothing Moisture Treatment (Kielhs) is a very effective English product. Its active ingredients: glycolic acid, birch extract, vitamin C. The cream quickly evens out skin tone and eliminates spot pigmentation. Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky film. Due to the content of AHA acid, which increases photosensitivity, it should not be used in summer and spring; go outside only after applying products with a UV factor;

• Uriage against age spots on the face has a consistency more like an emulsion and does not contain hydroquinone. Lightens imperfections within two months of regular use;

• CHRISTINA Intenc Fluoroxygen+C , thanks to a complex of active components, not only normalizes melanin synthesis, but also protects against sun rays, rejuvenates, increases the elasticity of the dermis, and acts as an antioxidant. Not suitable for young girls, as well as ladies with dry, flaking-prone skin;

• for lightening is very popular due to its high efficiency in the fight against darkening. The product is enriched with vitamins, kombucha extract, polyphenols, and natural acids. The only negative is the high cost;

• DiorSnow Creme Eclat Hydatante Unifiante , developed by the Dior scientific laboratory, removes accumulated pigment from the epidermis, which not only gets rid of existing age spots, but also prevents the appearance of new ones. “Works” in the deep layers of the dermis. Has a prolonged effect (up to 6 months). A mattifying complex with zinc gluconate tightens pores and smoothes out minor defects;

• Janssen FAIR SKIN Brightening Night Restore is a German cream that belongs to the category of professional cosmetics. The bleaching agent contains a solution of diacetyl boldine, which suppresses the synthesis of melanin; the lipoamino acid lightens existing marks. The product is easily absorbed, suitable for all skin types, has mattifying properties;

• Avene D-Pigment Legere is a cream based on thermal water. Effectively eliminates dark pigment spots, saturates cells with vitamins, eliminates oily sheen, and accelerates recovery processes. After use, you need to use moisturizers, since the main ingredient (lactic acid) dries out the skin;

• Oriflame produces two anti-pigmentation products: for daytime and nighttime use. In addition to brightening the dermis, it protects against sun rays;

Nutrition

A combination of a teaspoon of honey, the same amount of potato starch and a couple of teaspoons of salt can whiten and remove dead skin particles. All ingredients must be mixed together until smooth.

Honey has a nutritional function. It contains many beneficial elements for the skin. Thanks to it, the skin tone quickly evens out.

Potato starch is designed to brighten the face. In addition, it is often called a substitute for Botox, because it can have a similar effect, only not chemical, but natural.

In this case, it is best to choose sea salt. It is this that has excellent peeling properties. Before combining all the components of the mixture, it must be crushed in a blender.

For those with dry and overly sensitive skin, it is best to add a teaspoon of milk here. Apply the finished mask in a thin layer over the entire face, including the areas around the eyes and lips. As soon as the first layer dries a little, you need to immediately apply the second. In one session it is necessary to use up the entire prepared mixture. Keep the mask on for up to 25 minutes. The lightening course consists of 12 procedures, which should be carried out every other day.

Whitening Facial Serum

The high effectiveness of whitening serums is explained by the fact that the active ingredients are present in them in the form of tiny molecules. They are able to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin, directly affecting the activity of melanocytes.

In the case of this type of cosmetics, it is especially important to take into account the skin type and age group of the woman. If the serum is chosen correctly, the effect will be noticeable after two weeks of use. Most products have a complex, intense effect on the dermis.

They:

• eliminate pronounced stains;
• moisturize;
• nourish;
• relieve inflammation;
• even out tone;
• reduce pigment concentration;
• prevent the appearance of new marks.

The following serums have proven their effectiveness:

• Librederm visually lightens lesions in 30 days, protects against the sun and free radicals. The product should be applied pointwise to the problem area;
• White flax is an inexpensive but effective product. Slows down the aging process, smoothes out fine wrinkles. Contains flax and bearberry extracts that block pigment synthesis;
• Isis Pharma Neotone is an innovative French serum that acts not only superficially (lightening the skin), but also reduces the amount of pigment by blocking the work of cells in the deep layers of the epidermis.

Attention: serums do not replace caring creams. This is a separate type of cosmetics with a different principle of action.

Concentrated products must be used correctly. Do not rub in, but lightly “drive in” with your fingertips. The frequency of procedures is indicated in the instructions and must be strictly followed. Typically the serum is applied in the morning and evening. The duration of the course is 1-2 months, depending on the concentration of active substances. Then you need to take a break.

Skin whitening with Welltox cream

Welltox whitening cream is a new unique development of cosmetologists. Ladies note the rapid achievement of the desired result using this product. In addition, it is absolutely harmless, as it contains only natural ingredients.

Among them:

• vitamin E (tocopherol);
• rosemary, almond, olive, grape oils;
• bergenia;
• amelan molecule, which neutralizes melanin;
• licorice, lemon extracts;
• glycolic acid;
• extract of peptides from Undaria Pinatifida (algae).

The complex of these ingredients not only normalizes pigment synthesis, but also copes with most dermatological problems in a short time:

• stimulates cellular regeneration;
• pulls up;
• moisturizes;
• strengthens fibers;
• saturates tissues with essential vitamins and microelements;
• evens out tone;
• smoothes out small wrinkles;
• heals microdamages;
• strengthens vascular walls;
• increases the protective functions of the skin.

Attention: Welltox can only be purchased on the manufacturer’s official website! It is not sold in pharmacies and stores.

The cream almost never provokes an allergic reaction and does not contain aggressive chemicals, parabens, dyes, or mineral oils. It can be used for a long time. Welltox helps remove even old age spots.

How to lighten age spots with cosmetics

Before you whiten age spots on your face with cosmetics, you need to choose the right product. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it’s better to opt for products from a well-known brand. Such companies have existed on the market for many years, value their reputation, and accordingly, pay attention to the quality of their products.

You need to carefully study the composition. An effective whitening cream must contain substances that suppress the excessive activity of melanocytes.

Among them:

• tretinol;
• tocopherol;
• arbutin;
• ascorbic, kojic, lactic, glycolic or mandelic acids;
• beta-carotene;
• hydroquinone;
• hexylresorcinol;
• niacinamide;
• vitamin C in any form.

Some of the ingredients listed (eg, hydroquinone, kojic acid) are toxic. You cannot use cosmetics that contain them for more than two months in a row.

For girls with combination dermis, it is advisable to buy creams enriched with vitamins B3, C, A, E, and plant extracts.

Also, when using whitening cosmetics, you must follow certain rules:

• You should first perform an allergy test. Apply a little cream to the inside of the elbow and wait an hour. If no rashes, redness, or itching appear, the product can be used;
• Apply medications only to well-cleansed skin;
• When lightening spots, you must constantly use sunscreen.

It is recommended to bleach marks between late October and early April, when the sun is not active.

You should only buy lightening cosmetics in pharmacies, large cosmetic stores or on the official websites of manufacturers. It is not safe to purchase aggressive compounds from dubious sellers.

Professional whitening methods

The principle of operation of procedures carried out in beauty salons to eliminate age spots is based on exfoliation of the surface layer of the epidermis covered with defects. Manipulations activate restoration processes in dermal tissues. In place of the damaged ones, new integuments are formed, without any unsightly marks.

There are several ways to achieve the desired result. Here are examples of the most effective procedures:

• photorejuvenation - cleaning the epidermis with a light flash;
• Laser therapy is the most popular and safe way to eliminate blemishes. There are two types of manipulations: superficial and deep (when radiation affects the inner layers of the dermis). The second type involves serious intervention. Indicated for solving serious skin problems. The intervention itself and the rehabilitation period are carried out under the supervision of a specialist;
• chemical peeling involves treating the skin with special mixtures based on acids, retinol, and other compounds that “burn out” the pigmented layer and free the skin from dead cells;
• radio wave removal is suitable for getting rid of small, not pronounced marks;
• carbon peeling is a combination of chemical and mechanical methods of exfoliation of the affected epidermis. A special gel with microparticles of carbon dioxide is applied to the problem area, then irradiated with a laser;
• cryotherapy – removal of cosmetic defects with liquid nitrogen.

After any salon procedures, the skin becomes defenseless against external factors. At this time, it is permissible to carry out gentle caring procedures; any aggressive influence must be excluded. You need to protect your face from the sun, do not go outside without first applying cream (at least SPF-50). It takes about a month for complete recovery. Professional peelings are best carried out in October-November. The sun is no longer active at this time, and severe frosts have not yet arrived.

All salon techniques have both advantages and disadvantages. When pigmentation is minor, cleansing procedures can be performed at home.

Store-bought masks against age spots

The effectiveness of whitening face masks against age spots is explained by the properties of vitamin C. It is contained in most of the active components of such industrially produced cosmetics.

Most of them have a complex effect on the dermis:

• moisturizes;
• nourishes;
• makes wrinkles less noticeable.

Masks do not act as quickly as creams with components that block melanin synthesis at the cellular level. But they “work” less aggressively, are affordable, and the range allows you to choose a composition suitable for different ages and skin types.

To achieve the desired result, you need to use masks correctly:

• Apply the composition only to a cleansed face. It’s good to use a scrub or perform a steaming procedure first;
• distribute cosmetics with light movements along the massage lines;
• keep the mask for no longer than the time indicated on the package, otherwise you can seriously damage the skin;
• After washing off the product, use a moisturizer.

Attention: whitening masks should not be used more than twice a week!

There are a lot of samples of such cosmetics on store shelves. According to consumer reviews, the following products are effective against hyperpigmentation:

• Good Night White Sleeping Mask from the Korean company Mizon with niacinamide, mulberry extract;

• CO2 oxygen mask ( Beauty Style , USA) consists of two parts: powder and gel. They must be mixed before use. Active ingredients: biogold, prickly pear extract and Japanese honeysuckle. Tightens the oval of the face;

• Badyaga Forte (7 notes of health) is a Russian drug that inhibits melanin synthesis. In addition to freshwater sponge, it contains extracts of Indian cress, string, wheat sprouts, grapefruit oil;

• Tomatox Magic Massage Pack (Tony Moly, South Korea) with niacinamide, extracts of kiwi, tomatoes, lemon, chamomile. Suitable for dry or normal skin;

• Belita-Vitex is a whitening mask produced in Belarus. Contains fruit acids, lemon and peach oils, pectin, kaolin, extracts of lingonberry, bearberry, and Valteria leaves. Strengthens the facial frame;

• Modeling Mask (ANSKIN, South Korea) contains highly concentrated vitamin C. Helps, including against age spots, scar darkening, post-acne, evens out the relief of the epidermis;

• Natura Siberica White Night Face Mask with Arctic blackcurrant, bentgrass, lemongrass, turmeric root extract copes with age spots and freckles. Activates metabolic processes, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Moisturizes, deeply cleanses, relieves irritation.

Women note that masks lighten age spots after 2-3 weeks, but even after one manipulation, the face becomes smoother, fresher and more radiant.

Body and armpit whitening

In order to whiten the skin in intimate places and not only (armpits, bikini, abdomen) from unnatural color after sunbathing, various improvised products are used at home that contain mild acids that act directly on the middle layers of the epidermis.

1. You can whiten darkened skin with simple Vaseline. It adheres well to the dermis, is inexpensive and is known for its high effectiveness. But this option is not suitable for girls with oily skin, because... the substance clogs pores and prevents the sebaceous glands from working normally. Repeat no more than 2-3 times a month.
2. To get rid of pigmentation on the body, you need to regularly perform procedures that scrub the dermis. The product made from corn flour has proven itself well. Mix corn flour with egg white, apply to the décolleté, thighs, abdomen, buttocks. After an hour, the mixture will completely harden and a dense layer will form, which will help you get rid of scars, wrinkles, moles, and acne. Use no more than once a week.
3. An excellent cream that whitens the skin on the entire body, even from self-tanning, can be prepared using lemon juice, baby moisturizer, glycerin and sugar. Dilute 1 spoon of sugar in lemon juice, stir until dissolved, then mix with three spoons of cream and an ampoule of glycerin (5 grams). Apply to the entire body after a shower, do not rinse. This product will soothe the sensitive dermis, help dry skin get saturated with moisture, and remove dark spots.

Photo - Lightening armpits
To lighten the body in certain areas, you can use citric acid. For a spoonful of powder we will need half a spoonful of mineral water, stir. The result is a very acidic solution, which is what we call dark spots. This method is not suitable for dry skin, but it will be a real boon for combination skin.

Top 10 homemade whitening masks

Traditional medicine offers many options for getting rid of pigmentation using natural ingredients.

Infusions of medicinal herbs effectively lighten dark spots. Suitable for evening out skin tone: parsley, licorice root, yarrow, dandelion. It is good to wash your face with decoctions instead of the usual product in the morning and evening, or make a compress: soak a soft cotton cloth in the solution, apply to the face for 15-20 minutes.

You can make your own lightening agents from products that are in every kitchen. Suitable for cosmetic purposes:

• onion;
• cucumber;
• Red Ribes;
• aloe vera;
• honey;
• lemon;
• strawberry;
• potato;
• dairy products.

Attention: all ingredients for home remedies must be fresh!

Here are a few recipes for effective whitening face masks that you can prepare yourself.

Yeast

Pour 20 g of yeast with two teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide (3%). Stir and leave to brew for 10-15 minutes. Place evenly on the face, cover with cling film with cutouts for the eyes, nostrils and mouth.

After 20 minutes, remove the plastic and wash. The mixture cleanses pores and eliminates greasy shine. After this, the skin looks smooth and radiant.

Kefir

Mix two tablespoons of kefir (fat) with 1 tsp. flour and rosehip or avocado oil (a few drops).

Wash off after a quarter of an hour. The mask effectively fights dark marks, relieves inflammation and moisturizes.

With turmeric and sour cream

Mix a teaspoon of seasoning well with the same amount of sour cream. Apply to the affected area and wash after 20 minutes. Can be used by girls with dry skin.

After removing the product, sometimes a slightly yellowish tint remains. It is easy to get rid of with a tonic.

Honey

Making a mask is very easy. You need to mix fresh liquid honey with lemon juice (1 tbsp each) until smooth.

The mixture will not only fade hyperpigmentation, but will also ensure that the deep layers of the epidermis are saturated with essential nutrients.

Cucumber

This vegetable perfectly refreshes and moisturizes the dermis. To prepare the mixture you need:

1. Grate a medium-sized cucumber on a fine grater.
2. Squeeze out excess juice through gauze.
3. Add honey and soda (0.5 tsp each) to the pulp.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon.
5. Pour in 12 drops of wheat germ oil.
6. Stir well.

If you are allergic to honey, replace this ingredient with beaten egg white.

Mustard

For the mask, you need to make applesauce, take 15 g of the resulting pulp, add 2 g of mustard powder and 5 ml of peach oil to it.

Attention: mustard must be used very carefully; it can cause severe burns. If the powder gets into your eyes, wash well; if the discomfort does not go away, consult an ophthalmologist!

This mixture cleanses the skin well, tightens pores, brightens the face, and gently exfoliates dead epidermal cells.

With white clay

The cosmetic product is suitable for any type of dermis. To prepare it you need:

1. Dilute the clay (1:2) with water (preferably mineral).
2. Squeeze the cucumber juice.
3. Stir in 1 tbsp. juice into clay slurry.
4. Distribute the resulting mixture over your face.
5. After 20 minutes, wash with warm water.

In addition to reducing the severity of pigmentation, white clay destroys harmful microorganisms. Makes the dermis soft, smooth, velvety.

With parsley

Parsley is one of the most effective “whiteners” of the epidermis. To prepare the mask you will need:

• chopped greens (1 small bunch);
• 1 tsp low-fat kefir;
• 1 tsp lemon juice;
• 10 drops of vitamin A.

All ingredients must be mixed well, distributed over the problem area, and washed off after 15 minutes. The mask is suitable for oily or combination skin. Those with a dry type of epidermis can also do it, but without lemon.

Rice

Rice has long been used for rejuvenation. The product made from it smooths out small expression wrinkles and evens out skin color.

To prepare the mask, you need to grind 2 tsp. pre-boiled, cooled rice with 1 tsp. milk until the consistency of thick sour cream, add 1 tsp. honey Apply to the problem area for 20 minutes. The mixture is suitable for any type of facial skin, as well as neck and décolleté.

With tomato pulp

Peel half a tomato, grate it, add a teaspoon of lemon juice.

Keep for a quarter of an hour. From such procedures, the skin will become smooth, even, silky, and take on a healthy appearance.

Useful tips

A clay mask perfectly helps to nourish the skin and remove dead cells. After dissolving the powder purchased at the pharmacy with warm water and applying the resulting paste to your face and neck, you should let it dry. After washing off the layer of clay, the skin will become smooth and silky, and the complexion will be more fresh.

The mask is well suited for girls going on vacation to the sea. After it, the tan will lie evenly, but you still shouldn’t neglect protective equipment.

Particular attention should be paid to the quality of cosmetics and creams. If you experience even a mild allergic reaction or unpleasant tingling sensation during use, you will have to discard this product. The skin of the face is very delicate and should be as comfortable as possible.

The cause of pigmentation can be metabolic and hormonal imbalance in the body. Pregnancy and childbirth, taking certain medications and even severe stress contribute to the appearance of brown spots on the skin. Sometimes they disappear on their own after the body’s condition normalizes, but more often they have to be countered using the above methods.