Everyone has melanin in their skin... whether we are white, yellow, brown, black...melanin gives each of us our unique skin colouring.
Noticeably dark patches of skin are caused by excess melanin production, which happens naturally as we age. Sun exposure, hormonal influences, skin injuries or inflammation can also trigger the development of dark spots.
I'm strongly against the use of synthetic acids and lightening creams to fad dark spots. I think they are particularly unsuitable for darker skins, and those of us with freckles as they can trigger hyper pigmentation. Unless you are super religious with the application of a very strong SPF after treatment, they can do more harm than good.
I'm super passionate about taking care of skin the natural way. It's amazing how the skin can glow when it is treated gently. Treating the skin gently involves cleansing it softly, moisturising it daily and protecting it with a strong SPF.
This face mask recipe contains orange, carrot & aloe. The ingredients in this mask are super gentle and do not bleach the skin, or strip it of its natural oils and moisture. Collectively they gently exfoliate and brighten the skin, minimising the appearance of dark spots. Oranges contain citric acid -one of many alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's). AHA's exfoliate the skin -removing dead skin cells. A build up of dead skin cells can make the skin look dull and make age spots and acne worse.
AHA's can be found in high concentrations in anti-aging products, such as serums, toners, creams & chemical peels. This recipe uses orange juice which is a weak AHA. Oranges contain only about one-fifth the citric acid of lime or lemon juice, making them especially suited to those of us with sensitive skin.
In addition to their exfoliating properties, oranges are also a rich source of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is believed to have hydrating & anti inflammatory properties and is even thought to boost collagen production!
Carrots contain heaps of Vitamin A. When taken orally, vitamin A helps maintain a healthy skin and hair follicle microbiome, especially on the face. It does this by reducing sebum secretion. Sebum is a nutrient source for bacteria. When applied externally to the skin, vitamin A has been proven to reduce fine wrinkles, roughness and acne.
If you have joined me on my whole food health and beauty journey for even a minute, you would know how much I love aloe. I grow it all over my home and include it in many recipes, especially for the hair. I've included it here in this face mask as well as it has powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory & anti microbial properties.
Sometimes I add honey to my face mask because it also has anti- inflammatory properties. Not just that, it smells amazing and leaves my skin super soft and glowing!
It really helps to have access to a juicer and a blender. If you don't have blender or a juicer it's not a big deal. If you do not have access to fresh orange or aloe vera leaves, bottled orange & carrot juice and aloe vera gel will work just fine!
I use this mask once every 10-15 days. I hope you enjoy trying it!
I've given this recipe in simple measurements, so you can adjust it and make as much or little as you need depending on the parts of the skin you would like to apply this mask.
If you decide to give this recipe a go, please share your thoughts, pictures and recipe tweaks. Good luck!
Ingredients:
Method
Step 1.
Cut open the aloe leaf and separate the pulp from the skin.
Step 2.
Juice the carrot and orange.
Step 3.
Put the aloe vera pulp (and honey if using) in a blender and blend for one minute.
Step 4
Add the orange-carrot juice mix and blend for another minute.
Step 5
Transfer to a clean jar.
Step 6.
When you are ready to use the mixture, shake gently.
Step 7.
Soak a cotton face mask or cotton balls in the mixture and then apply to the skin
Step 8.
Leave for 10-15 minutes.
Step 9.
Rinse your face gently with water.
I always apply a natural face oil afterwards. If you would like the recipe for this also, let me know!
Disclaimer
I'm very passionate about the management of autoimmune conditions in a healthy way.
I speak with medical professionals, read journals, try and test new recipes to share with you and diligently undertake research online. That being said, as you know, each autoimmune disease, as well as any set of symptoms you may be experiencing are unique.
All information provided is in no way intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure the appropriateness of any information in relation to your own situation.
And finally, please comment and share so we as a community better cope with our conditions by through growth and learning.