Women can experience skin discoloration on their faces for many reasons. Common skin discoloration that plagues women called cloasma or melasma can be identified as dark brown patches on the face, especially the cheeks, upper lip and forehead. This discoloration is often caused by hormonal changes due to pregnancy or while taking birth control pills. The brownish spots may remain on the face for years after discontinuing birth control, but usually disappear after pregnancy. Deficiencies in folic acid and PABA are known to contribute to the discoloration as well as an increase in certain hormones. Many believe herbs and lifestyle changes can prevent and treat skin discoloration. Consider trying natural and herbal solutions before opting for an expensive treatment regimen for this common beauty problem.

Eat Herbs and Other Foods Rich in Folic Acid

It is easy to increase your folic acid intake for healthy skin. Toss some dandelion leaves or parsley into your salad each day at lunch for an addition that is rich in folic acid. Watercress is also a great source of this important component of the vitamin B complex. Food sources of folic acid are leafy greens, liver and whole grains like barley, oats and whole wheat.

Protect Yourself from the Sun with St. John’s Wort

Oftentimes sun exposure will cause skin discoloration to darken and redden. To decrease this possibility, wear a wide brimmed hat when in the sun and coat your face with a PABA sunscreen. St. John’s Wort oil can also be used on the face, and applied regularly as needed. Make your own by crushing a St. John’s Wort plant (flowers, leaves and stems) in olive oil and letting the mixture sit at room temperature out of sunlight for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, strain the plant material out of the oil and let it sit for several days. Water will separate out of the oil after several days. Pour the oil into a dark glass bottle and throw away the water. This mixture is meant to be applied frequently for use as sunscreen.

Increase your PABA Intake

PABA and folic acid are in many of the same foods, so if you do not eat out of the categories where they reside, there is a good chance you are deficient in PABA. Increase your intake of molasses, mushrooms, and add nutritional yeast to smoothies for a PABA boost. Fresh fruit and vegetables are always good to increase in your diet for healthier skin, and are full of the PABA amino acid.

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