Yes, you can get skincare advice from grandma

Coconut oil has a small molecular structure, which allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin. It also contains powerful skin healing antioxidants like vitamin E, which is essential for skin renewal and regeneration.

Gently massage virgin coconut oil on dark spots after cleansing to help fade them. Repeat daily until the dark spots fade. You can continue using coconut oil even when there aren’t any visible dark spots. Thanks to vitamin E, daily application of coconut oil will help defend your skin against the damaging effects of UV rays, which is the main cause of dark spots.

2. Sandalwood

Make a paste using two tablespoons of sandalwood powder, which is a natural exfoliator, and two to three tablespoons of rose water — which you can make by simmering dried or fresh rose petals in water until the water has taken on the color of the roses. Once done, strain the mixture and store the water in the fridge. Rose water is effective in clearing out your pores, which will allow the sandalwood to penetrate deeper.

Spread this mixture on your face after cleansing, as a face mask and keep it on for 30 minutes, or until it dries. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat up to three times a week.

3. Rice water

This beauty secret from Asia exfoliates and promotes new skin growth, as well as contains antioxidants that promote UV protection to prevent the formation of new dark spots.

Fill a bowl of rice with water and leave it to steep for 15 to 30 minutes before straining out the rice. Collect the leftover liquid into a sealed container to store in the fridge. It should last for up to five days. To use, simply dab the rice water over the problem spot daily after cleansing. It can take up to a month for the spot to fade completely.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Using it straight from the bottle might be too aggressive for your skin, as apple cider vinegar is highly acidic and contains malic and lactic acid. In the right proportions, lactic acid fades dark spots because of its exfoliating effect. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar with water in a bowl before applying to dark spots using a cotton ball. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with cool water. Continue daily until the dark spots fade.

As these are home remedies, with varying brands and quality of ingredients, make sure to try these on your hand before applying it straight to your face. Watch for any itching or inflammation.

While there’s some truth to how effective these ingredients are, we can’t stress more the need to use clinically-tested skincare. These products have undergone thorough research and development to make sure they work to deliver results and strengthen skin health. So, take advice from grandma, but never replace your product-based skincare routine.