Skin Pigmentation: Don't let these foods spoil your skin

In today’s competitive working environment and visibly demanding relationships, we often compromise on food. We gulp what comes our way without thinking of its good or bad effects. The truth is that the lifestyle we follow in 21^st century directly impacts our body, muscles and senses, not to forget skin. The junk food’s devastating impact on our skin may result in developing skin pigmentation. Let’s take a look into this common disease and what foods we should avoid.

Skin pigmentation is amongst common concerns for both men and women, and as dermatologists state, women have reported to experiencing this more than their counterparts. It is caused by our alterations in lifestyles, food habits and inherit to our future generations. One of the most common risk factors of skin pigmentation is foods that contain natural insecticides that are produces naturally by plants known as Psoralens, which is highly UV absorbent, thereby enhancing the formation of melanin allowing pigments to appear on the skin called skin pigmentation.

People who have sensitive skin are susceptible to developing skin pigmentation by touching foods that carry Psoralens. For example, if you handle food that contain Psoralens, there is a possibility that they would collect on your skin and when you go out in the sun, they can cause severe burns or pigments to form in a specific area. One of the foremost things you can do to avoid pigmentation is wear gloves. This immensely minimizes the risk of any severe reactions. Some Psoralens – rich food enlisted by dermatologists are:

• Cilantro: Most of the Indian kitchens are full of Cilantro as it adds much taste and scent to the foods. Unfortunately, if you don’t want to be among those affected, either limits consumption or use gloves before handling them. Keep in mind to cook them well at high temperatures.
• Grapefruit: This fruit is a common sight in winters and we love to get our hands on this appetizing seasonal fruit. The unfortunate part is, the more you eat, the more you become vulnerable to skin pigmentation. Grapefruits attract insects and this cause for more pesticides to be sprayed on them. They are also rich source of Psoralens.
• Carrots: A boon for the eyes, but alas, an enemy of the skin! Yes, it’s true. Carrots are supposed to be the best bet for healthy eyes as compared to other fruits and vegetables. Explore the other side of it and you’ll find that they also rich in Psoralens. If consumed raw, there is a great chance of you getting skin pigmentation. Carrots are fundamental to every household in India but the fact that it can cause harm to your skin is a slight disappointment.
•  Lemons: Another commodity found in abundance in the Indian kitchens. But unfortunately, lemons are responsible for causing skin pigmentation because of their acidic nature. Going out in the sun after applying lemon on your face can cause sunburn or skin darkening. In order to minimize the extent of damage, mix lemons with other beneficial foods like honey.