Eczema can change your skin in different ways and pigmentation is one of them. You can either get lightened or darkened patches from flares and when you scratch the itchy areas that are affected. When it comes to Black skin, though, you’re more likely to deal with dark patches so it’s good to know how to handle them.
How Eczema Pigmentation Affects Black Skin
When doctors studied the effect of eczema pigmentation on different skin types, they found that Black skin was affected more frequently by post-inflammatory skin changes. That means Black Americans are at a higher risk for experiencing dark or light skin patches after a flare or if they have been significantly scratching the affected area. According to these studies, dark patches are more likely than light ones.
There are two reasons you’ll see dark patches. The first is that inflammation encourages the production of melanocytes, which give your skin its color. With its production increased, the pigment is transferred to the top layer of the skin. If you’re injured or scratch the affected area, the pigment is released, resulting in the darkened areas you see in an eczema flare.
Secondly, the dark patches usually persist after the flare has passed. They indicate where the skin is healing. These dark areas can stay for months, especially if you expose them to sunlight frequently. It should also be noted that continuing to use topical steroids after a flare has ended could make the changes in pigmentation permanent.
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10 Ways to Handle It Naturally
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
There’s some evidence that apple cider vinegar can soothe itchy, irritated skin while also lightening dark patches. You can combine equal parts of cider with water in a container and apply it to your skin for about three minutes. Afterward, you can wash it off with warm water.
2. Milk
Milk is not only soothing but the lactic acid it contains can lighten dark patches. You can soak a cotton ball in milk and apply it to the skin twice daily until you see results.
3. Red Onion
According to recent research, the dried skin of red onions can lighten dark patches. If this isn’t available, there are over-the-counter creams that contain red onions as well.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains aloin, which studies have shown will help with lightening dark patches. You can extract the gel from the plant and apply it to the affected areas before you go to bed. In the morning, you can rinse it off with warm water.
5. Black Tea Water
More study needs to be done on this one but early research shows that it can lighten dark patches. To try it, place a tablespoon of dried black tea leaves in a cup of boiling distilled water. After leaving it for two hours, soak a cotton ball in the liquid. You should apply the liquid to the affected skin twice per day six days per week for no more than four weeks.
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6. Green Tea Extract
Green tea may also lighten dark patches when applied to the skin. You can either purchase the extract or make your own by placing the teabag in a cup of boiling water for two minutes and then placing the cooled teabag on your skin.
7. Tomato Paste
Studies show that the lycopene in tomato paste can protect your skin from damage, which can help to heal the inflammation that leads to dark patches. You can apply tomato paste to your skin a couple of times per day.
8. Licorice Extract
The active ingredients in licorice may help to lighten dark patches. Unless you can make your own, it’s best to look for skincare products that contain it.
9. Red Lentils
While this hasn’t been studied yet, there is some evidence that red lentils can lighten the skin. To make a mask from them, soak 3 ½ tablespoons of red lentils overnight in a bowl of water. In the morning, use a food processor to create a paste that you can place on your skin for no more than 20 minutes. Afterward, you remove it with cold water.
10. Orchid Extracts
Some initial studies show that orchid extracts can lighten skin just as well as products that contain Vitamin C. You can find over-the-counter skincare products that contain these extracts.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
While there are no specific treatments for skin pigmentation from eczema, most doctors like to take a preventive approach. If your current treatment isn’t enough to prevent flares or manage your eczema symptoms, then you need to let your doctor know. Many natural treatments are only meant to complement an effective medical regimen if you’re dealing with severe eczema. These treatments can also come in handy as some of the common topical medications that are used for the skin condition can make your symptoms worse or lead to other skin complications. However, they’re not a substitute for talking to your doctor about an effective way to manage your eczema.
Eczema can be a tricky skin condition for Black people. Not only can the symptoms look different on Black skin, but it can also cause unsightly dark patches that persist. It’s helpful to have a few natural remedies that encourage your skin to heal but that won’t replace a good treatment plan. You should always let your doctor know about changes in your skin.
