Freckles are multiple flat, tanned circular spots that are usually the size of the head of a common nail. They often occur in areas exposed to the sun, such as the nose, back and shoulders, and are common in people with a light complexion.
While freckles are harmless and rarely develop into skin cancer, most people affected with it prefer to lighten or be rid of it. You can try cosmetic treatments to get rid of freckles, but they can be quite expensive. Try the following natural remedies instead and get rid of your freckles safely and inexpensively.
1. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is known to have skin lightening effects on the skin. Apply and massage lemon juice on the affected area. Leave it for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Do this twice a day daily for better results.
You can also try a lemon scrub. Add a few drops of lemon juice to a tablespoon of fine white sugar. Gently scrub this on the affected area then rinse off with water. Do this once or twice a week.
2. Papaya juice
Papayas can help lighten freckles in a subtle and gradual way. It contains papain, also known as papaya proteinaise, a kind of enzyme that breaks down dead skin cells. Papaya then makes an excellent exfoliant by lifting off dead skin cells and revealing new, healthier skin.
Apply papaya juice on the affected area with cotton and gently massage the area. Leave this for 5010 minutes then rinse off with water. Do this once a day until you are satisfied with the result.
3. Sour cream
Sour cream contains lactic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid, which acts as an exfoliant. This can help lighten freckles by sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal the new skin underneath. Apply sour cream on the affected area and let it dry. Instead of washing it off with water, use a soft tissue or towel to wipe it clean. Use a moisturizer afterwards. You can do this once a day until you see the result that you want.
4. Honey and lemon mask
Lemon contains alpha hydroxy acid which dissolves dead skin cells, stimulating new cell growth. Honey, on the other hand, is a natural humectant, which helps to draw water onto the skin, keeping it soft and hydrated.
Add a few drops of lemon juice to a tablespoon of honey, mix well apply this on the affected area. Leave for about 15-20 minutes and rinse off with water. Repeat this after a one day interval.
5. Onion
Onions owe their skin lightening properties to its sulfur-containing compounds. Cut a red onion into thick slices and rub these on the affected area. Do this twice a day until you see your freckles fading. Alternatively, you can grate the onion and extract its juice. Apply the juice on your freckles twice a day until you see the results that you desire.
6. Horseradish
Horseradish is rich in vitamin C, a vitamin vital for collagen production, and antioxidants, which helps maintain healthy skin. Dab horseradish juice on the affected area and leave for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water. Do this once a day for best results.
Alternatively. You can grate one horseradish and then add the juice of one lemon to make a paste. Apply this on to the affected area and leave it to dry. Wash off thoroughly. Do this every other day until you see the result that you want.
