Scars are considered as a part of natural healing process of the body. But the appearance of these scars is embarrassing most of the time and all of us want it to be minimized as soon as possible. There are numerous over-the-counter ointments and products and in the market for treating skin hyperpigmentation or abnormally pigmented scars. However when it comes to treating the scars due to hyperpigmentation and depigmentation, the choices available are very limited. Several studies have shown that ginger is the only natural ingredient to treat hypopigmentation efficiently. In this article, we shall discuss how and why ginger can be used for treating hypopigmented scars effectively.
What is hypopigmentation?
Hypopigmentation is a very common skin problem, which could be experienced by people of different skin types. It refers a condition in which the loss of skin color is caused due to less production of a pigment named melanin present in the skin. When the quantity of amino acid tyrosine is low in the skin cells, the melanocyte (a cell that is known to produce melanin) becomes unable to produce enough melanin. As a result, the skin starts getting discolored or lighter in certain spots or patches. There are a number of factors, like burns, injuries, skin disorders, etc. that lead to the specific skin condition, it has been thought that different types of scars are the known cause of this issue.
Also Read: How to Use Castor Oil to Reduce Pigmentation?
Ginger- nutritional facts
Ginger is an extensively studied herbal ingredient. It is the root of a flowering plant, which is scientifically called Zingiber officinale and is also native to Southeast Asia. Having a potent medicinal property, the ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for several health conditions. This is due to the presence of phenolic compounds including gingerol, a chemical compound having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers have found that ginger might help prevent and treat chronic inflammation, arthritis, infections, etc. while reducing the risk of diabetes and also cancer. It improves immunity, relieves abdominal pain, and decreases nausea. Use of dried or fresh ginger in cooking is an ancient practice, which is very popular these days.
Why use ginger to treat hypopigmentation?
Although the main use of ginger is associated with cooking, it could be used to treat several health and skin problems including hypopigmentation. Many studies have revealed that topical application of the root could help people get rid of hypopigmented scars. The antioxidants in the ingredient are found to help in healing the hypopigmented scars and also restoring the color of skin in these areas. It also has amazing toning property, which helps in enhancing the texture of the affected part of the skin. So, you should give this traditional medicine a try to treat your skin discoloration.
How to use ginger to treat hypopigmentation?
Ginger can work on the damaged skin cells composed of the hypopigmented scar stimulates the melanocytes to produce sufficient melanin. The natural color of the skin comes back and white scars disappear slowly. Below is how the fresh ginger could help treat hypopigmented scars in a natural way:
- Take a slice out of the fresh ginger and then rub the hypopigmented scars on your skin. Do this in such way that juice oozes out of the ingredient and those affected area gets moisturized easily.
- Allow the juice to stay at that part of the skin. It would go deep in the skin cells and start working quickly. As this juice is absorbed by skin completely, there is no such need to wash it.
- Repeat this at least 2-3 times in a day. Make sure you use a fresh slice of the ginger every time for the desired result.
You would notice a change in the hypopigmented scar within a couple of weeks and the whole section of skin will go back to its previous condition in 6-12 weeks.
Risks of hypopigmented scars
Hypopigmentation caused because of the scarring normally heal on its own. Also, when you are treating the hypopigmented scar naturally with any herbal remedies, you will not be exposed to the serious risks. But, people with albinism are at a greater risk of skin cancer. It makes your skin more vulnerable to harmful ultraviolet rays of sun. On the other hand, persons with lichen sclerosis are less susceptible to skin cancer. But if you develop serious scars due to this reason, you must consult your doctor as soon as possible to prevent it from getting cancerous.