HOW TO GET RID OF DARK SPOTS (PIGMENTATION)
Dark spots on the face can result from hyperpigmentation, which is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin produces too much melanin.
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by sun exposure, scarring and aging, among others. Dark spots on the face can occur if the skin overproduces melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin its color. This is known as hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation can develop as a result of: • Aging
hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or menopause
• Sun exposure
Skin damage can also cause postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). People may develop PIH due to:
• Acne
bites, cuts, and burns excessive or incorrect hair removal techniques
• Ingrown hairs
harsh skin care products scarring from psoriasis or other skin conditions
Hyperpigmentation is not the only cause of dark spots on the face. For this reason, it is important for a person to speak with a doctor if they notice any changes to existing moles or dark spots — particularly changes in texture, color, and size.
Topical treatments for dark spots:
There are many over-the-counter (OTC) products that can help fade dark spots. They will typically contain active ingredients such as:
• Kojic acid
• Retinoids
• Chemical exfoliants
• Vitamin C
• Azelaic acid
These products will have instructions on how to use them on the label. However, it is best to speak with a dermatologist before trying them, as some have risks.
The following sections will look at some of the pros and cons of these products in more detail.
If topical products do not adequately reduce hyperpigmentation, some people may wish to consider cosmetic procedures.
Some potential options include:
LASER THERAPY: This involves a dermatologist using a beam of light to target areas of discoloration. There is a risk that laser treatment will make discoloration worse, so patch testing beforehand is essential.
Chemical peels: Professional chemical peels are stronger versions of OTC acid exfoliants. Stronger peels work on deeper layers of the skin, but they also have longer recovery times.
MICRODERMABRASION: This exfoliating treatment uses minuscule particles to remove dead skin cells. There is no recovery period, though it can make the skin temporarily irritated or swollen.
People who are prone to PIH or scarring or who have used isotretinoin in the past 6 months may not be able to undergo microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser therapy.
Many products and online sources claim that various home remedies can fade hyperpigmentation. Some examples of these include:
• Aloe vera gel
• Beta carotene
• Green tea
• Licorice root
• Pomegranate extract
• Soy milk
• Tea tree oil
• Turmeric
• Lemon juice
However, there is limited or no evidence to back up most of these claims.
Some home remedies for dark spots can be harmless, but others may cause damage to the skin.
For example, lemon juice is very acidic and too harsh to use undiluted. Similarly, people should not use undiluted essential oils on the skin.
THINGS TO AVOID: Some skinlightening practices can be dangerous. For example, the AAD warns against using liquid bleach on the skin. This can cause serious burns.