Bharti Singh shares struggle with facial pigmentation after childbirth: ‘Didn’t have pimples but…’

“Apply the mixture to the spots. Let it dry. And then wash your face. It helps dissolve black pigmentation and spots instantly,” vouched Goyal on Singh’s YouTube podcast.

Should you try this remedy? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Why does pigmentation happen after pregnancy and delivery?

Dr Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic physician, cosmetologist, and skin expert, Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, explained that the most common cause is melasma, a hormonal pigmentation, triggered by elevated estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy. “These hormones stimulate excess melanin production, causing brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. After delivery, hormone levels drop, but the pigmentation may linger, especially if aggravated by sun exposure,” said Dr Malhotra.

Other contributing factors include:

Sunlight – UV exposure deepens pigmentation.
Post-inflammatory changes – Any skin irritation or acne marks can darken more easily.
Nutritional deficiencies – Low vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron can influence skin health.
Stress and lack of sleep – Both are common after childbirth, affecting skin repair.

Many new mothers experience pigmentation changes after delivery, and while home remedies like rose water, lemon, and glycerin are popular, they need to be approached with caution, especially on sensitive postpartum skin, said Dr Malhotra.

Does this remedy work?

Rose water can soothe, hydrate, and mildly tone the skin. “Glycerin locks in moisture and keeps skin supple. Lemon juice contains natural vitamin C and citric acid, which may help lighten dark spots over time,” said Dr Malhotra.

However, lemon juice is highly acidic and can irritate sensitive skin, especially skin already affected by hormonal changes, remarked Dr Malhotra. “It can also cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if sun exposure follows its use,” cautioned Dr Malhotra.

So, while this mix might give a temporary brightening effect due to mild exfoliation, it’s “not a proven or safe long-term solution for postpartum pigmentation”, especially without patch testing.

What to note?

Patch test first – Apply on a small area (like behind the ear or jawline) to check for redness, burning, or rash.

Avoid direct sunlight after lemon use – Lemon can make skin photosensitive and worsen pigmentation if exposed to UV rays, said Dr Malhotra.

Dilution is key – Always dilute lemon juice well; never apply it directly.

Avoid on broken or irritated skin – Postpartum skin can be extra sensitive.

Results take time – Pigmentation won’t disappear instantly; expect gradual improvement over weeks to months, said Dr Malhotra.

Other safer alternatives

*Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even indoors.
*Incorporate mild vitamin C serums (low concentration for sensitive skin).
*Gentle exfoliation with lactic acid or kojic acid–based creams (only after medical advice).
*Maintain a nutrient-rich diet with leafy greens, citrus fruits, and adequate hydration.

Postpartum pigmentation usually fades slowly with the right skincare and sun protection. “Patience, consistency, and gentle treatments work far better than harsh DIY remedies that may damage sensitive skin,” said Dr Malhotra.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.