Treatment for hyperpigmentation typically calls for three main avenues: prevention, fading, and gradual removal.

Aloe vera

Aloe verahas been an anecdotal skin care savior for quite some time.

If you want more specific ideas, we have a thoroughaloe vera DIY mask guidehere.

Jessica Ourisman

Worth noting: Studies back up thephoto-damage claims3.

(Yes, hey.)

It’s easy to use, too.

Keira Barr, M.D.

Not only are you getting the antioxidants, but you’re getting a light physical exfoliation too.

It even expedites the healing of scars.

Simply dab a bit of lemon juice directly onto the dark spot.

And even then, remember to wear a hat, slather on thesafe SPF.

(Not an excuse to skip SPF, however.)

For your DIY method: Try pureeing fresh, organic tomatoes into a paste for a mask.

Apply it to clean skin, leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and rinse with luke warm water.

Continue with your skin care routine as normal.

Kombucha

It turns out that fermented tea, or kombucha, improves helps improve your complexion.

The probiotic-packed, antioxidant powerhouse brightens and evens skin tone in two ways.

Secondly, it contains a compound thatboosts collagen production6, generating new, unpigmented skin cells more quickly.

But ACV also contains malic acid, an exfoliating alpha-hydroxy acid that removes dead skin cells marred by pigmentation.

Used as a spot treatment or toner, this can result in a brighter, more even skin tone.

Brew up some licorice root tea, let it steep and cool.

“Higher concentrations of Arbutin can actually cause hyperpigmentation,” she begins.

Read: Maybe try a store-bought formulation for this one.

It won’t be as potent, but it’s possible for you to do it right at home.

Check out someDIY berry maskshere.

Most suggest mixing horseradish powder with another brightening agentmost often you hear apple cider vinegarto make it more potent.

She warns, however, thatstudies have shown that it can have inflammatory and irritating effects on the skin12.

Rinse off after 10 minutes.

It’s great for whipping up aDIY maskwith some honey, berries, or even a capsule of probiotics.

Always opt for organic, unflavored yogurt, which will help minimize exposure to processed sugar.

With regular use, you’re able to expect smooth, clear, more even skin tone.

Puree into a DIY scrub by tossing in you favorite fruits into a blender.

Once you’ve made your goop, slather it on your face working in small, circular motions.