How to Get Rid of Dark Spots on the Face

However, due to our lifestyle choices and environmental influences, dark spots or hyper pigmentation, have become a prevalent source of worry for most people. Some of the various reasons of dark spots include age, sun exposure, and hormone imbalances. Dark spots become visible when the melanin in our skin rises, giving it a dark, patchy appearance. Dark spots appear to be self-explanatory—they're spots or patches of skin that are darker than the rest of your skin—but the causes and treatments might vary. For example, a pimple that left a dark acne scar (aka post-inflammatory hyper pigmentation) is a typical source of dark spots, but injuries, hormones, and sun exposure can all create discoloration that may or may not go away on its own.

Hormonal changes can cause pigmentation, which is why pregnant women often have a lot of dark patches. In certain situations, PCOS is also to blame for melasma and other skin issues that result in uneven, spotty skin. Many black spots will ultimately go away on their own, although the time frame might range from a few weeks to a few years. Years, indeed. So, if you want to get rid of dark spots on your skin at home quickly, seek treatments that include these substances to reduce hyper-pigmentation as soon as possible.

Glycolic Acid 

Dark patches on the face are caused by melanin, the pigment that determines the colour of one's hair, skin, and eyes. While melanin occurs naturally, exposure to UV radiation can cause the pigment to overproduce. Picking at the skin and deep acne cysts and tenacious outbreaks can leave black stains on the face. Despite the ease and quickness with which dark spots can appear on the face, glycolic acid provides customers with a good and economical choice for fading black spots in as little as four weeks.

To begin, glycolic acid inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme that creates colour on the skin's surface. Try a chemical exfoliant/acid instead of a face scrub (sorry, but scrubs are often too aggressive for skin that is prone to dark spots and hyper pigmentation); try a chemical exfoliant/acid. Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliator for black spots since it is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps dissolve and shed the "glue" between dead, dis-coloured skin cells, leaving you with a cleaner, brighter, and overall glower face.

Furthermore, by chemically exfoliating away surface-level dead cells, your skin will be better able to absorb any subsequent spot treatments or brightening serums, making them more effective. Win-win. Glycolic acid also has another advantage in terms of decreasing black spots: it may be used safely on all skin tones. In fact, in a research in which participants with darker skin tones underwent a glycolic acid chemical peel every 2-3 weeks, more than half of the patients showed an improvement in the reduction of black spots on their faces.

Glycolic acid is one of the most effective skincare components for removing black spots. Glycolic acid is a potent skincare component to employ for an even, luminous skin tone, whether acne, hormones, or ageing cause it. 2-4 times a week, incorporate a glycolic acid peel into your skincare routine.

Retinol 

Retinol is a kind of retinoid, a vitamin A derivative that helps cure hyperpigmentation by increasing the natural rate of skin cell turnover. Side effects of retinol include skin dryness, inflammation, and sun sensitivity. To lighten the skin and lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation, retinol can be administered topically. When used carefully and consistently, this over-the-counter (OTC) retinoid can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation in as little as six months.

Because it promotes skin cell turnover, retinol can have a variety of beneficial benefits on the skin. New skin cells will be more uniformly coloured as they develop. Retinol also lessens the formation of sun-induced dark patches by decreasing the action of tyrosinase, an enzyme that induces the creation of melanin in the skin. It thickens and brightens the skin and can aid in treating aged skin. Retinol takes longer to work than other retinoids because the skin must change it into retinoic acid before it can be metabolized. It may take up to 6 months to see obvious improvements. Because of its low effectiveness, it is offered over-the-counter; yet, this provides it with an accessible and economical therapy for anybody desiring it.

Retinoid creams and serums are among the most promising anti-aging therapies, such as hyperpigmentation. They lighten age spots and stimulate collagen and elastin formation in the skin. Some products and treatments should not be used with retinol. Vitamin C serums work in different pH conditions than retinol topicals, and the two can interact, leading to decreased effectiveness.

Strong exfoliants, such as glycolic chemical peels, should also be avoided since they can aggravate irritation and dryness when used in conjunction with retinol treatments. A dermatologist prescribed retinoids. If retinol and other over-the-counter treatments are not effective in correcting your hyperpigmentation, you should see a dermatologist to consider prescription therapies. Retinol can help brighten the skin and reduce the impression of dark patches. It accomplishes this by encouraging skin shedding, which increases cell turnover rate and inhibiting the key enzyme's action, which promotes melanin formation. Side effects of retinol include skin dryness, inflammation, and sun sensitivity. However, because of its low strength, these adverse effects are generally minor when they occur.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has the property of blocking the action of tyrosinase, which is the enzyme that helps with the formation of melanin. According to a study, if you apply vitamin C continuously for 16 weeks, it reduces even the stubborn dark black spots from the skin. Vitamin C can be an excellent daytime and nighttime treatment as well. However, keep in mind that many products are specifically designed for either the daytime or the night. If applied to healthy and clean skin in the morning, vitamin C can help prevent the onset of damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are regularly encountered through environmental pollution and UV exposure, so applying a vitamin C serum under your sunscreen is a great defence tactic.

When applied in the evening, Vitamin C can assist in restoring skin while you sleep. Not only does vitamin C absorb best when sleeping, but its capacity to increase collagen formation may help enhance the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - all while fading dark spots.

This antioxidant protects your skin from free radical damage caused by UV radiation and pollution and stimulates collagen formation. Vitamin C also inhibits pigment development and keeps current pigment from darkening.

Salicylic Acid 

Salicylic acid is one of my favourite substances for treating acne and dark spots on the skin. It works so well because, besides being anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, it is keratolytic, which means it breaks down the keratin in our skin and helps to lighten dark spots. Salicylic acid is produced naturally in willow bark and contains a component known as salicin. Salicin, like aspirin, has anti-inflammatory effects that soothe sensitive, inflamed skin. This implies less redness, soreness, and puffiness in terms of acne. Furthermore, salicylic acid is a popular topical treatment for psoriasis inflammation. Acne-related dark spots benefit from the usage of chemical exfoliators containing salicylic acid. It reduces redness and irritation and helps remove excess oil from your pores. In essence, it is both a therapy and a cure. Salicylic acid not only gently exfoliates, but it also encourages the development of new skin cells, which can aid with dark spots.

Niacinamide

It's one of the most popular skincare products, and luckily for you, it's also effective in treating dark spots. It may be used alone or in combination with other skin, brighteners to remove existing hyperpigmentation and give your skin a more even, glowing appearance. Niacinamide is also anti-inflammatory, making it an excellent choice for anybody with sensitive, prone-to-redness skin. Because niacinamide is a versatile chemical, it may be found in a wide range of skin care products. However, whether you use it as a cream or a serum, paying attention to the amount of niacinamide in the composition is critical. It is available in two percentages: 2% and 5%; start with the smaller amount. If you have sensitive skin, Niacinamide can help repair healthy skin cells while also shielding them from UV ray harm. Some research suggest that niacinamide doses of 5% can help brighten black patches. The benefits were noticeable after four weeks but not after two months. A well-balanced diet is the greatest approach to obtaining micro-nutrients such as vitamin B-3. To cure a deficit, you should only take supplements under medical supervision. When it comes to general skin health, you may be able to acquire some of the advantages of niacinamide through the foods you eat. Eggs, cereals, green vegetables, beans, salmon, milk, and cereals are all high in vitamin B-3. 

However, there is no way to ensure that the nutrients in your diet affect your general skin health. Only by using niacinamide topically can you be certain that it is addressing your skin care needs. Niacinamide also helps the skin barrier function, which is especially important during the summer months when we spend more time outside. It accomplishes this by assisting in the production of ceramides, which are necessary for the skin's moisture retention.

Kojic Acid 

It also includes kojic acid, which is popular for skin lightening due to its ability to suppress the formation of excess pigment. Committing to a dark-spot-correcting serum containing any and all of the previously stated brightening components, including vitamin C, retinol, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid, will considerably speed up the process help eliminate black spots even faster.

One 2013 study compared 0.75 percent kojic acid concentration to 4 percent hydroquinone for treating melasma in 60 persons. According to the researchers, hydroquinone is more effective.

Because kojic acid might irritate delicate skin, it is not recommended for everyone. Because of its melanin-blocking abilities, kojic acid is beneficial in treating and preventing all forms of hyperpigmentation, including post-inflammatory and sun-induced hyperpigmentation. It is ideal for anybody searching for a more natural substance to lighten dark spots and offer a more even complexion.

Chemical Peel 

A chemical peel is a treatment that uses a chemical solution to "peel off" the outermost layer of skin, eliminating discolorations and encouraging new skin development. Peels can be used to treat acne scars, melasma, heat skin, wrinkles, and a variety of other disorders. They may also be used to make dark patches lighter.

Chemical face peels are effective in treating all types of hyperpigmentation, including dark patches. Your dermatologist will examine your skin and then prepare a mixture of acids and skin brighteners to remove the top layer of skin and, in the case of harsher peels, target uneven pigmentation in the deeper layers. Prices vary per clinic, and you should be aware that you may require repeated treatments to attain the greatest results. Certain chemicals, such as glycolic acid, Alpha-hydroxy acids, lactic acid, trichloroacetic acid, and others, are used to expedite skin exfoliation, causing cells to peel off naturally. The end effect is virtually instantaneous fresh-looking, glowing skin.

To avoid recurrence of skin dis-colouration, post-treatment care with creams and sunscreen is required. In addition to applying maintenance creams and sunscreen, you may maintain your skin by taking a few extra measures, such as not picking at the skin, which slows healing and can result in scarring. Use a cream to keep your skin nourished. Use a wide mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, to safeguard the skin from sun damage. Sunscreen should be applied continuously with or before beginning your chemical peel therapy.

Hyaluronic Acid

When used with brighteners, hyaluronic acid can help minimize pigmentation and blemishes associated with ageing. Excessive sun exposure causes skin damage, which is a common cause of hyperpigmentation. When Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid are combined, the moisture provided by Hyaluronic Acid allows active brighteners to operate more effectively, which means it is more effective in minimizing the effects of skin pigmentation.

Sunscreen 

If you just follow one thing from this list, consider it this one: Every day, use a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher. Not only does applying sunblock on a daily basis assist to combat skin cancer, but it also protects your skin from damaging UV rays, which are the cause of most dark spots.

In reaction to UV radiation from the sun, cells release protective pigment (called melanin) to protect your skin from burning. This is commonly referred to as "becoming tanned," although it is actually your skin's attempt to defend itself. So, while you may like your summer tan, be aware that deep beneath the layers of skin, you also have damage that would eventually manifest as small black spots on your face. It's also worth noting that the sun exacerbates post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation caused by breakouts, so wearing SPF is essential to avoid the cycle. According to reputable studies, the therapy of any dark patches should begin with a strict sun-protection regimen. Applying moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30 every day, irrespective of whether the day is cloudy or humid, will help prevent further damage to your skin.

Natural Cures

If your dark spots are not obstinate or you want to maintain your skin blemish-free naturally, these are just a handful of home treatments you may find in your kitchen to erase dark spots in only two weeks to a month. 

• Papaya

Papaya contains papain enzymes, which help stabilize skin tones and exfoliate the skin. It functions as its own scrub, which many individuals use on their elbows and knees. It enhances the skin by removing the top covering and exposing healthy skin beneath. Papaya contains anti-aging qualities as well as being suited for all complexions. To use papaya to cure black spots, crush the fruit in a dish and put it to clean skin. Apply the pulp of the papaya to the afflicted regions. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes before washing it off from face and neck. Combining papaya with lemon juice is another home cure to try. To begin, grate green papaya and mix with one tablespoon lime juice. Apply it to the skin once it has been well combined. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing with water.

• Turmeric

Turmeric powder is fantastic for reducing dark spots. Unlike the other home treatments, turmeric must be supplemented with additional resources. If taken regularly, you should expect to see benefits in as little as two weeks. One teaspoon turmeric powder, 1-2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon lemon juice Mix these three components together until they make a mixture that is neither too thick nor too watery. Allow it to sit for 20-25 minutes before washing with water. It may take many rinses to completely remove the residue from the black areas, as if they were on the face. If you follow this exercise on a daily basis for two weeks, you will notice a significant improvement in no time. If you don't really have milk or lime juice on hand, you may use olive oil & honey. Honey is delicious, but it also helps to fade scars.

• Yogurt 

Yogurt has moderate bleaching qualities that safely and naturally brighten dark spots without hurting or aging your skin. Yogurt includes lactic acid (found naturally in dairy products), which aids in the treatment of skin disorders such as uneven skin tone, pH imbalances, and spots. Apply a thick yogurt mask to your face and let it on for 10-15 minutes and then wash with water. Apply the yogurt and leave it on overnight for quicker results. Apply moisturizer immediately after applying the yogurt face pack.

• Tomato

Tomatoes function best when ingested systemically rather than applied topically. Tomatoes are naturally high in lycopene, a phytonutrient with several potential health advantages, including sun protection. A 2011 study found that subjects who consumed roughly 55 mg of tomatoes with olive oil per day were protected against both short and long-term photo-damage caused by UV radiation.

• Aloevera Gel

Aloevera is a very well herbal skincare solution because its therapeutic capabilities pave the way for skin regeneration. Aloevera gel or aloe vera juice should be applied to brown patches and left on for 30 minutes before washing with cold water. For a month, use aloe vera thrice a day to revitalize your skin to make you seem younger. Aloe vera is an organically generated substance that is well-known for its relaxing and hydrating effects. The inner gel mucilage of the aloe plant (the portion utilized in skincare care products is 99.5 percent water.

• Lemon Juice 

Lemon juice has several health advantages, including burning fat and removing toxins from the blood, but who knew it could also help you attain clean skin. Lemon includes Vitamin C and an acid that really can break melanin pigments and lessen the appearance of dark spots in as little as a month. Slice a lemon in halves and dab the slices to the brown patches directly. Allow the slices to sit for about thirty minutes before rinsing with warm water. To minimize irritation and peeling, restrict sunlight exposure after applying lemon to the skin. It can also irritate delicate skin. Therefore, if it stings after application, remove it rapidly and rest your skin.

Bottom line

Although brown patches on the skin are usually innocuous, they might be confused for skin cancer. If you discover any strange skin patches before implementing any of these measures, make an appointment with a dermatologist. In many situations, facial hyper pigmentation may resolve on its own over time. Discoloration can be safely faded using over-the-counter and prescription therapies. A specialist can advise on the best treatment options based on a person's skin type and tone and the reason for their hyper pigmentation. Patients should see a doctor right once if preexisting dark spots enlarge, alter, or proliferate.

References

• https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-get-rid-of-dark-spots
• http://wameyo.expertscolumn.com/article/10-ways-reduce-dark-spots-face-naturally
• https://swirlster.ndtv.com/beauty/how-to-remove-dark-spots-from-face-naturally-2216924
• https://www.purefiji.com/blog/natural-remedies-dark-spots/
• https://www.healthline.com/
• https://www.olivaclinic.com/blog/how-to-remove-dark-spots-on-face/
• https://akclinics.org/blog/20-easy-ways-to-get-rid-of-dark-spots