Blemishes, Spots and Scars-Shahnaz Husain

Blemishes

Shahnaz Husain- Blemishes Reduction

Blemishes on the face can be due to various reasons. There may be dark spots, scars and pits on the skin, left behind by acne. Or, there may be dark patches or dark spots (freckles) on the skin, due to sun-sensitivity. We have been treating such skin blemishes at the Shahnaz Herbal salons. Of course, the treatments depend on the nature of the problem and on the skin type.

As we know, acne not only leaves dark marks, but also tiny pits in the skin. These are difficult to remove, since the pits form due to the destruction of skin tissue. The skin also gets a premature aged look. The result of this kind of scarring is that the skin becomes uneven and loses its smooth texture. Among the treatments for acne scars are laser therapy, micro-dermabrasion, chemical peeling, etc.

Considering the risks involved in chemical peels, I devised Veg Peel treatments to minimize acne scars. These are clinical treatments, based on dermabrasion, i.e. gently rubbing the skin with some grainy substances formulated with plant extracts. We also recommend products for daily home care. However, it takes time, so one should allow 4 to 6 weeks to see a difference. In cases of extensive scarring, it may take more time, as several sessions may be needed. If there are pimples and acne, they have to be treated first. 

Some home remedies may also help. They should be carried out after the acne condition has subsided. If there are no pimples, acne or rash, use a facial scrub. Mix rice powder with curd and apply on the face. Rub gently on the skin with small circular movements, especially on the areas with acne marks. Then leave it on for five minutes and wash off with plenty of plain water.

A face mask may also be used once or twice a week. Mix 3 teaspoons oats with egg white and one teaspoon each of curd and honey. Apply on the face, avoiding the lips and area around eyes. Wash it off after half an hour. Dried and powdered lemon and orange peels or ground almonds can also be added to the pack.

If there is any dryness after following these treatments, take two teaspoons curd, add a pinch of turmeric (haldi) and apply daily on the face, washing it off after 15 minutes. This not only softens the skin, but also helps acne and marks.

Fruit masks may also help hyper-pigmentation. Mix ripe papaya pulp with grated cucumber, tomato pulp and oranges. Apply the pack daily on the face and wash it off after half an hour. The pack not only lightens skin colour, but also revitalizes the skin and removes dead epithelial cells.

A word of warning! Never pick pimples or blackheads with the nails. This can cause the condition to spread and also leave marks on the skin.

The first aspect of the treatment of pigmentation is sun protection with the application of sunscreens with a high SPF. If the skin is dry, a sunscreen cream should be applied. For normal to oily skin or combination skin, a sunscreen gel is more suitable. Sun block creams of higher SPF are also available. The sunscreen should be applied about 20 minutes before sun-exposure, to allow it time to be absorbed by the skin. It should be reapplied if you are in the sun for longer than an hour at a stretch. The effects of the sun are greater near water bodies and snow. So, added protection is needed.

External care can help to remove pigmentation, provided protective care is followed afterwards. Even when the pigmented patches disappear, one should continue to use a sunscreen. In fact, the use of a sunscreen has become an important part of modern cosmetic-care, to protect the skin from problems and premature ageing. Protective, preventive and corrective care represent the foundation of modern cosmetology.