how to heal inflammatory hyperpigmentation - #26389
During diwali last year i applied kumkum on my forehead then i came home and i washed my face with water and i used a towel harshly to rub the stain off Then my my forehead started burning and hyperpigmentation occurred i used kojivit and i used shatdhauta ghrita (ghee) and my hyperpigmentation gone but still little bit there my wedding is in two months and that hyperpigmentation is seen in photos what do i di to fade it away quickly i am so insecure
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Doctors’ responses
hello Tushar , Thank you for sharing that. Since most of the pigmentation has already reduced and your skin has responded well to gentle treatment, now the focus should be on evening out the skin tone, supporting healing, and avoiding any new irritation especially with your wedding approaching.
Your skin had what we call post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — it happens when the skin gets inflamed or damaged (like by rubbing harshly or using irritants like kumkum), and melanin increases in that area as a healing response. You’ve already healed most of it, which is great.
Now, that leftover pigmentation will gradually fade, but we can gently speed up the process without causing irritation, since harsh treatments can make it worse again.
1. Morning Routine:
Use mild face wash (like Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser or Kama Ayurveda Rose Cleanser). Apply Vitamin C serum (e.g., Melaglow or Minimalist 10% Vitamin C). After 10 mins, apply sunscreen (SPF 50+) even if you’re indoors. (Brands: Re’equil, La Shield, or Minimalist Sunscreen).
2. Night Routine:
Cleanse face with same mild cleanser. Apply Azelaic acid 10% cream (e.g., Aziderm 10%) only on the pigmented spot. Wait 5 minutes, then apply Shatadhauta Ghrita or Kumkumadi tailam very gently as a night layer.
3. Weekly (Optional):
Once or twice a week, apply multani mitti (fuller’s earth) + rose water paste only on the spot. Wash after 15 mins.
No scrubbing or rubbing the forehead. Avoid fragrance-based creams or fairness creams. Avoid kumkum, synthetic sindoor, or sticker bindis directly on that area for now.
No test needed now. But if pigmentation worsens or spreads, check: Thyroid profile Vitamin B12 and D3
Do you notice new pigmentation coming elsewhere on your face or just that one spot? Are you using any makeup regularly, and if so, do you remove it gently?
Let me know if you want a simpler routine with only Ayurvedic options. Regards, Dr. Karthika
To address the lingering hyperpigmentation effectively, Ayurveda offers various approaches. Given your upcoming wedding, it’s important to avoid any treatment that might irritate your skin further. Here’s a practical plan.
Firstly, continue with Shatadhauta Ghrita, it’s a well-regarded treatment for skin and healing and help reduce pigmentation over time. Apply it gently without harsh rubbing to your affected area twice daily before bath and before sleeping. Make sure your face is cleansed with a mild, natural cleanser before application.
Incorporate herbal infusions like turmeric and sandalwood which are kown for their depigmenting properties. You can prepare a paste by mixing one teaspoon of sandalwood powder with a pinch of turmeric, adding enough rose water to form a paste. Apply this to your forehead, leave for 15-20 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. Do this every alternate day.
Internally, ensure you’re consuming a healthy diet that supports skin health. Include foods like turmeric (haldi), which has anti-inflammatory properties, and amla (Indian gooseberry), which is rich in Vitamin C and can help brighten your skin from within. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining hydration is also crucial.
Gentle ayurvedic massages with sesame oil (taila) improve circulation and skin tone. Apply it with light strokes, it also aids in relaxation. Avoid excess sun exposure, which can worsen pigmentation; use a natural sunscreen like aloe vera gel when stepping out.
If you have access to an Ayurvedic practitioner nearby, consider Panchakarma treatments like Virechana (a detoxifying therapy), which can help reduce Pitta imbalance contributing to pigmentation.
Lastly, manage your stress levels through Yoga or meditation – stress can often exacerbate skin conditions. If your condition does not improve, it’s wise to consult with an Ayruvedic expert to tailor treatments further. Always do a patch test before applying new remedies to ensure your skin does not react adversely.
For addressing the residual inflammatory hyperpigmentation on your forehead, especially with your wedding approaching, it’s important to focus on approaches that balance your doshas and promote healing. You’ve already made some progress, which is excellent. But to further help in fading the remaining pigmentation, here’s what you could consider:
1. Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly over the pigmented area twice daily. Just ensure that you leave it on for at least 20-30 minutes for effective absorption before rinsing.
2. Turmeric Paste: Mix a small amount of turmeric powder with some honey or milk to make a paste. Apply this mixture to the affected area. Turmeric can help even out skin tone, thanks to its active compound, curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes, and then carefully rinse it off. Do this no more than once daily to avoid yellow staining of the skin.
3. Dietary Adjustments: Focus on reducing pitta by avoiding spicy, oily, and fermented foods. Incorporate more cooling foods like cucumber, coriander, and sweet fruits. Adequate hydration is also crucial, so ensure you’re drinking ample water throughout the day.
4. Triphala: Consider taking Triphala churna, which helps detoxification and supports skin health. A common dosage is one teaspoon in warm water at bedtime. However, individual needs might vary, so adjust according to how your body responds.
5. Topical Natural Oils: Using a light application of coconut oil or almond oil can keep the area moisturized and support healing. Apply gently after cleansing your face each evening.
Remember, Ayurvedic solutions sometimes take time, so be consistent with these practices. However, if you notice any irritation or the condition worsening, consult with a healthcare professional. Avoid excessive sun exposure, and if necessary, use a natural sunscreen to protect your skin.

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