By Dr. Satish Sawale, Ayurveda

Pigmentation refers to the dark patchy area caused by the consistent rush of the pigment melanin to the surface of the skin as a result of endless application of harmful beauty products or cosmetics, free flowing pollutants or extreme exposure to sunlight. Melanin is the very pigment responsible for the intensity of the skin colour. This dark patch occurs as a form of blemish on the outer surface.

The skin products and gels used to treat pigmentation of the skin may backfire because of the definite allergies and reactions caused by them. It should be also considered that cosmetics form a major group of reasons leading to the pigmentation of the skin.

Due to this very reason Ayurveda may have an upper hand at treating discoloration or dark patching of the skin.

The Ayurvedic practice used in this process is called aushadhi. Ausadhi combines usnodaka, drinking boiled water, with herbal preparations. The herbs vary from individual to individual depending on the dosha or the body type. Ayurveda is a personalized form of treatment which seeks to treat each individual separately based on their unique needs and issues.

Ayurveda suggests the very popular combination of scrubbing, cleansing, toning and moisturizing the skin, which is presently proposed by most skin treatments. The major difference lies in the fact that Ayurveda uses organic elements for the aforementioned processes.

Scrubbing may be achieved through a paste of chickpeas or oatmeal, almond oil as well as goat milk. A major component used is the vitamin E oil to achieve toning of the skin or close the skin pores, opened by scrubbing to remove impurities.

Other major elements used by Ayurveda include yoghurt, milk, tomato, lemon juice, cucumber, fruits or turmeric. Ayurveda certainly has a superior position in terms of pigmentation treatment owing to minimal reaction risks and organic content.