Before you know how to decrease the production of melanin first should know, that what is melanin.
What is melanin?
Melanin is the pigment that gives color to your skin, hair, and eyes. It’s created by cells called melanocytes, which are found in the outer layer of your skin. We all have about the same number of melanocytes. However, some people’s cells make more melanin, as well as certain types of melanin, more than others. The more melanin you have, the darker your skin is.
Sometimes, melanin can build up in some areas and cause darkening of the skin, which doctors may call hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is when parts of your skin are darker than others.
While it’s possible to spot-treat existing melanin deposits, there are risks and limitations. It’s also possible to lower melanin production in the skin.
Read on to learn more about reducing melanin production and removing melanin deposits, including precautions and what to expect.
#How to slow down melanin production in the skin?
Methods to lower melanin production don’t involve medical treatments but depend on your sun care habits and some natural remedy options.
#sunscreen and sun exposure?
The purpose of melanin is to protect your skin from sun damage. When you’re exposed to the sun, your skin creates even more melanin.
Wearing sunscreen will limit this process. Sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays, which slow down your melanin production.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best sunscreen is:
- broad-spectrum
- SPF 30 or higher
- water-resistant
Sunscreen doesn’t block 100 percent of the sun’s UV rays. To further limit how much melanin your skin makes, you should also:
- limit your sun exposure
- stay indoors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest
- wear protective clothing, such as sunglasses, long sleeves, and hats
- avoid tanning beds
#topical creams or ointments
You can also use topical creams or ointments to lighten skin. These products decrease existing melanin in the areas in which they’re used.
Skin lightening products are available by prescription or over-the-counter (OTC). Typically, a product will have one of the following ingredients:
- hydroquinone
- kojic acid
- vitamin C
- glycolic acid
- azelaic acid
- retinoid
Many of these suppress tyrosinase, the main enzyme needed for melanin synthesis. This slows down melanin production and results in lighter skin.
However, skin lightening products are known for causing side effects like:
- dryness
- irritation
- redness
- itchiness
It’s best to consult a dermatologist before using lightening creams or ointments.
#Natural remedies
People claim some natural remedies can lighten the skin. It’s not clear how long these remedies take to work, so it’s important to be patient if you decide to try them. Additionally, they’re all temporary, so you’ll need to continue using them routinely.
1. Turmeric
According to a 2012 study in Phytotherapy Research, the active compound in turmeric may reduce melanin synthesis. This compound, called curcumin, works by inhibiting tyrosinase. This suppresses the ability of melanocytes to create more melanin.
2. Aloe Vera gel
Aloe vera may reduce melanin production after sun exposure. The plant contains aloesin, a compound that was found to suppress tyrosinase in a 2002 study in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology.
However, a more recent 2012 study determined aloe vera doesn’t have these effects. Though the research is conflicting, users of aloe vera gel say it helps lighten skin.
3. Lemon juice
People also use lemon juice to reduce skin pigmentation. This may be due to its high vitamin C content. According to a 2017 article in Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology vitamin C can reduce tyrosinase activity, which prevents the formation of melanin.
Despite its potential anti-pigmentation effect, lemon juice can be harsh on the skin. Use only when diluted and avoid the sun after use.
4. Skin bleaching
When you apply a skin bleaching product like hydroquinone, it decreases the number of melanocytes in your skin. This can result in lighter skin and a more even skin tone
5. Green tea
Green tea has a compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). A 2015 study found that EGCG can prevent melanin accumulation. It works by inhibiting an enzyme needed to make melanin.
Is it possible to reduce melanin production permanently?
Every person’s body continually creates melanin. The amount is determined by genetics.
You can lighten and perhaps remove existing hyperpigmentation, but it may return. It’s not possible to permanently lower your body’s melanin production without regular skin lightening treatments.
