Kiss pigmented skin goodbye

My father has very pigmented skin on his forehead and his work is almost always at outdoor sites, where he is inevitably exposed to harsh sunlight. He uses commercial creams at night to treat the tan, but would you be able to recommend a natural treatment to help him lighten the problem areas?
- Name withheld
Direct exposure to sunlight can be very damaging for the skin, especially between the hours of 11am to 3pm. Please ask him to compulsorily apply a sunscreen of at least SPF 45 and to do so about 20 minutes before he steps out into the sun. Once he gets back from work, ask him to cleanse his face with a face gel; then, rub a slice of tomato on dry skin and leave on for 10 minutes. Follow this with a lotion made from ½ teaspoon of potato juice and ½ teaspoon of yoghurt. Leave this lotion on the skin for one hour every day for excellent results. An important factor to note is that stress is also a key cause of aggravation where pigmentation is concerned. A brisk walk every day or taking time out to do some breathing exercises will aid in managing stress and calming the body.
My skin seems to be extremely sensitive to sunlight, as it gets very pink and hot. I have been rubbing a slice of tomato on it. Please tell me if that remedy is the best or if you have any other suggestions.
- Babara
It sounds like your skin requires some cooling and calming. You can try dipping cotton pads in buttermilk and keeping them refrigerated. Whenever you've returned home after being out in the sun, pat the buttermilk pads on your face. Rinse with cold water after 20 minutes. Do this several times a day and you will see an amazing difference in the condition of your skin.
I'm a regular reader of your column and really love your natural home remedies. My skin is rough and has traces of dead skin. Overall, it looks dull and grey. However, I do cleanse, tone and moisturise it daily. What can I do to give it a nice glow? Please help.
- Sandhya
I am so glad to know you are a regular reader of my column in the magazine. Your skin requires some gentle exfoliating three times a week. Using a piece of papaya, apply a thick pulp on your face. Rinse off after 30 minutes - first with warm water, then with cold. The dead skin cells will be exfoliated gradually, polishing the skin and adding a nice glow to your complexion. This is also safe to do every day, if you wish. The results will naturally be quicker - while offering a mild and sure skin repair.
My hair looks terrible. It has an unhealthy 'ash' look about it. This despite oiling it once a week and brushing it once a day. Please suggest a home remedy. Appreciate if it can be a very simple one.
- Carol
Tea is an excellent toner. Brew a litre of water with the tea of your choice. Once you achieve a lovely dark colour, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. After your regular routine of shampoo and conditioner, rinse your hair with one cup of this tea water. Try to allow your hair to dry naturally. Do this twice a week. Your hair will start getting a glossy, healthy colour and shine.
(Got a beauty-related query? Write to Rima Soni at wknd@khaleejtimes.com)

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