This article was co-authored by Lydia Shedlofsky, DO and by wikiHow staff writer, Dan Hickey. Dr. Lydia Shedlofsky is a Resident Dermatologist who joined Affiliated Dermatology in July of 2019 after completing a traditional rotating internship at Larkin Community Hospital in Miami, Florida. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina. After graduation, she moved to Beira, Mozambique, and worked as a research assistant and intern at a free clinic. She completed a Post-Baccalaureate program and subsequently earned a Master's Degree in Medical Education and a Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
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Lots of products claim to safely lighten your skin a few shades, but most contain harsh chemicals that can actually damage or darken your skin over time—are there any gentle, natural solutions? As it turns out, you probably have a ton of items in your kitchen right now that can brighten your complexion without harm. In this article, we’ll walk you through the best natural, DIY methods to whiten your skin safely. If you’re ready to get started, read on!
Things You Should Know
- Apply mixtures with natural lighteners like lemon juice, honey, turmeric, or papaya to your face and skin. Rinse with lukewarm water after 20 minutes.
- Keep your skin exfoliated and moisturized and use sunscreen to keep your skin from getting darker or duller.
- Remember that all skin shades are beautiful! Healthy, radiant skin looks great in any color.
Steps
Expert Q&A
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QuestionHow can I stop my skin from darkening?Lydia Shedlofsky, DODr. Lydia Shedlofsky is a Resident Dermatologist who joined Affiliated Dermatology in July of 2019 after completing a traditional rotating internship at Larkin Community Hospital in Miami, Florida. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina. After graduation, she moved to Beira, Mozambique, and worked as a research assistant and intern at a free clinic. She completed a Post-Baccalaureate program and subsequently earned a Master's Degree in Medical Education and a Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
DermatologistIf you don't want your skin to darken, use some sort of photoprotection against sunlight. -
QuestionIs rose water good for our skin?Community AnswerIt sure is! Rose water soothes, tones, and moisturizes, and it is very gentle on the skin. It's great for your hair, too.
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QuestionHow do I protect myself from sun damage?Community AnswerWear protective clothes and sunscreen. Examples of protective clothing are hats, tracksuits and closed shoes.
Warnings
- If you notice chronic dryness, redness, or irritation after using a home remedy, stop using it and let your skin rest and recover. Try a milder method when your skin is healthy enough for lightening again.[20]⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Avoid bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemical lighteners. They might lighten your skin in the short term, but may cause lasting damage and darkening if overused.[21]⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Some whitening products may contain toxic substances like mercury or hydroquinone that inhibit your body’s ability to make and move protective melanin.[22]⧼thumbs_response⧽
- Be wary of marketing terms like “lightening” or “brightening” that aim to make you feel self-conscious about your skin or promote colorism in the beauty industry. Embrace your skin and remember it’s beautiful no matter what shade it is![23]⧼thumbs_response⧽
References
- ↑ https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2018/natural-remedies-age-spots-fd.html
- ↑ https://www.bebeautiful.in/all-things-skin/everyday/benefits-of-milk-for-skin-and-how-to-use-for-a-glowing-face
- ↑ https://helloglow.co/greek-yogurt-face-mask/
- ↑ https://www.femina.in/beauty/benefits-of-gram-flour-for-skin-84681.html#tan-lightener
- ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/beauty/turmeric-powder-for-beauty-how-to-use-it-for-your-face-and-skin-1749164
- ↑ https://greatist.com/health/turmeric-for-skin
- ↑ https://food.ndtv.com/beauty/5-home-remedies-for-a-dark-neck-make-your-skin-tone-even-1812774
- ↑ https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2018/natural-remedies-age-spots-fd.html
- ↑ https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2018/natural-remedies-age-spots-fd.html
- ↑ https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/how-to-lighten-the-skin-around-private-parts/
- ↑ https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2018/natural-remedies-age-spots-fd.html
- ↑ https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2018/natural-remedies-age-spots-fd.html
- ↑ https://www.femina.in/beauty/skin/papaya-face-packs-that-benefit-your-skin-151410.html
- ↑ https://www.manipalhospitals.com/blog/7-natural-remedies-to-get-rid-of-dark-spots
- ↑ https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/lifeberrys-epaper-dhe177a317d88f485596e24ec6e75d8566/5+best+rice+flour+face+packs+for+skin+whitening-newsid-n205030202
- ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/a28541767/how-to-get-glowing-skin-tips/
- ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/a28541767/how-to-get-glowing-skin-tips/
- ↑ https://www.manipalhospitals.com/blog/7-natural-remedies-to-get-rid-of-dark-spots
- ↑ https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/radiation-sun-protection
- ↑ https://helloglow.co/greek-yogurt-face-mask/
- ↑ https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/the-dark-side-of-beauty-heres-all-the-ways-bleaching-destroys-your-skin-and-health/dm8bnew
- ↑ https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/the-dark-side-of-beauty-heres-all-the-ways-bleaching-destroys-your-skin-and-health/dm8bnew
- ↑ https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/the-dark-side-of-beauty-heres-all-the-ways-bleaching-destroys-your-skin-and-health/dm8bnew
About This Article
If you want to naturally whiten your skin at home, mix one part lemon juice to one part water, then dip a cotton ball in the solution and apply it to your skin. Rinse off the mixture after about 15 minutes, and repeat 2-3 times a week. To lighten the skin on your whole body at once, pour a cup of full-fat milk and the juice from a whole lemon into a bathtub full of warm water, then soak in the tub for about 20 minutes. Rinse off in the shower, then gently dry your skin. Repeat this once a week. Keep reading to learn how exfoliating and moisturizing can make your skin look brighter!