Can this four-ingredient remedy work on dark neck? Experts weigh in

Ingredients

Aloe vera leaf
Coffee
Sugar
Turmeric
Lemon juice (optional) (If darkness is more, then use, she said)

How to use it?

*First put a warm towel on the neck for 10 minutes.
*Then, scrub with this remedy for 15 minutes.

How often to use it?

*Do this process three times a week for best results.
*For children, only one time a week

We reached out to experts to know more about it.

This remedy might help to some degree as all the ingredients mentioned have properties that can potentially contribute to skin health and brightness. “Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties, coffee can exfoliate and stimulate blood flow, sugar also works as a natural exfoliant, turmeric is lauded for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and lemon juice has a brightening effect. However, the effectiveness of this remedy can vary significantly from person to person and largely depends on the underlying cause of the skin darkening,” stressed Dr Batul Patel, leading celebrity dermatologist, founder and medical director – The Bombay Skin Clinic. 

Dr Patel emphasised that one should always keep in mind that natural remedies are not a substitute for professional medical advice and treatment. “If the darkening is due to a medical condition such as acanthosis nigricans, for example, this remedy might not be effective, and medical treatment would be necessary.”

Are these effective for your skin? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Notably, neck darkening or hyperpigmentation is common for acanthosis nigricans. That kind of velvety darkening is also seen in underarms. “This is a sign of insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes. People with this kind of pigmentation have to follow dietary modifications-eat less oily, fried, and sweet foods and exercise daily to help them improve their insulin metabolism, and this, in turn, reduces the neck pigmentation,” said Dr Vandana Punjabi, dermatologist and trichologist at Khar, and Nanavati Max Superspeciality Hospital.

Very often people think it is just dirt or some necklace allergy, but that is not the case, added Dr Punjabi.

“Another common cause of neck darkening is ‘frictional melanosis’ which is due to constant rubbing of the skin of the back and neck with homemade products, towels, loofah, or scrubs. This kind of darkening is also seen on the arms and legs,” said Dr Punjabi.

According to Dr Punjabi, using home remedies which are coarse granules like sugar, coarse daals etc can worsen this pigmentation and should be completely avoided, especially in people with sensitive skin and already prone to pigmentation. “It’s advisable to consult a dermatologist to find out the cause of neck darkening and treat with appropriate medications,” said Dr Punjabi.

Concurred Dr Patel and said that for children, while it can be used, it’s advised to be more cautious because their skin is more sensitive and delicate. “Once a week application as suggested should be adhered to. If any sign of irritation appears, stop the application immediately and consult a paediatrician,” said Dr Patel. 

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