No one wants to have dark spots on his body, especially on the face. Dark spots are usually caused by sun exposure, a condition known as hyperpigmentation. However, sometimes (especially during pregnancy) hormones can cause dark spots or patches on the skin, called melasma. Pimples and scars can turn into dark spots that persist after the pimples, scratches, and wounds have healed. The good news is that most dark spots go away on their own. However, you can also use products or treatments to speed up the process.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Hyperpigmentation and Melasma
Step 1. Use topical hydroquinone to lighten dark spots
Hydroquinone is a skin lightening treatment commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation and melasma. These products are sold in cream, gel, lotion, or liquid form, and some are available without a prescription. However, your doctor can also prescribe stronger products to treat dark spots. Apply this product directly on the dark spots on the face according to the directions on the package.
Some of the non-prescription products that people often use include Ambi Skincare Fade Cream and Differin Dark Spot Correcting Serum
Step 2. Apply topical vitamin C as a natural alternative
Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant that can ward off free radicals and improve general skin health. However, this ingredient has also been shown to stop the production of melanin in the skin so that it can be used to reduce freckles and dark spots. Apply a vitamin C cream or serum directly on the dark spot area to lighten it naturally.
Choose a topical vitamin C specifically designed to be applied to the skin. This product can be found in drug stores and pharmacies
Step 3. Ask the doctor to give you a triple cream to lighten the skin
If the dark spots are very prominent and difficult to treat, consult a doctor for a cream that contains tretinoin, hydroquinone, and corticosteroids, or what is known as a triple cream. Apply this cream directly on the dark spots, following the directions on the product packaging so that the dark spots can fade quickly.
- Triple cream can be used to treat sun spots and melasma caused by pregnancy.
- Triple creams can irritate sensitive skin and generally take 3 to 6 months to significantly remove dark spots.
Step 4. Go to a dermatologist (dermatologist) for a chemical treatment to treat dark spots that won't go away
This type of peel uses a chemical solution that will remove the top layer of skin to fade or remove dark spots. If the dark spot is very difficult to treat, go to a dermatologist for a chemical peel or ask him for a referral for this treatment.
Never do a chemical peel yourself. Only a licensed dermatologist can safely perform this procedure
Step 5. Talk to your doctor about microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is done by gently sanding the skin using an abrasive tool to remove the outer layer of the skin, which in turn will fade dark spots. If the freckle is deep, microdermabrasion can make it fade faster. Ask your doctor if this procedure is safe for you, and visit a dermatologist who provides this service.
Dermatologists can perform microdermabrasion procedures in a hygienic and safe manner
Step 6. Ask your doctor about laser or light-based treatments
Laser and light treatments are performed with special equipment to remove pigment without scarring. However, usually you will have to undergo testing first to see if there is a negative reaction to the treatment. Consult with your doctor if you can undergo laser treatment to fade dark spots faster.
Both of these procedures can only be performed by a dermatologist
Step 7. Use sunscreen to prevent dark spots from getting worse
Sunscreen used daily may be the best option for preventing hyperpigmentation. Even low levels of UV light can add to and cause dark spots. Look for a physical sunscreen, one that contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which can block most of the sun's rays that cause darkening of the skin.
Dark spots caused by melasma can also darken when exposed to sunlight
Step 8. Avoid products that contain bleach or other harmful chemicals
Never choose a product that contains bleach because it can damage the skin. For a safer option, use a skin lightening product made in the US or one recommended by a dermatologist so you can confirm the ingredients. Don't use dubious treatments, such as lemon juice, which can do more harm than good.
Method 2 of 2: Acne and Scars on Face
Step 1. Apply a retinoid cream to treat acne and dark spots
Retinol will open clogged pores and fade dark spots, which means it can be used to treat acne and lighten dark spots. You can buy retinoid creams at pharmacies or online. Apply the cream directly and thinly on dark spots and pimples to fade them quickly and make skin tone even.
Some of the popular retinoid products include Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Facial Moisturizer, Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform, and PCA Skin Intensive Brightening Treatment
Step 2. Treat acne from the start to prevent and reduce the occurrence of dark spots
Research shows that treating acne early can help prevent acne from getting worse. Wash your face at least 2 times a day, then use salicylic acid toner to treat skin and get rid of acne.
- You can also apply benzoyl peroxide gel on the pimple to get rid of it faster.
- Don't just focus on getting rid of dark spots, but you also have to deal with the acne that's causing it.
Step 3. Use a scar filler to temporarily cover the pimple
Scar tissue filler is dermal filler, which serves to fill in the spaces and gaps in the skin. If you want to get rid of dark spots on your face, try applying a thin layer of scar filler the same way you would apply makeup. This product will fill in the gaps and make the skin surface even. You can clean it easily if you want to get rid of it.
You can buy scar tissue fillers at pharmacies, beauty supply stores, or the internet
Step 4. Talk to your doctor about laser treatment for severe acne scars
If you still can't get rid of dark spots because of acne on your face, your doctor can use a laser to treat them. Go to a dermatologist's clinic if you want to try laser treatment.
- Remember, the insurance company will likely not be willing to cover the cost of cosmetic treatments such as laser procedures.
- Laser treatment costs around Rp. 12 million to Rp. 22 million.
Step 5. Switch to gentle skin care products if your skin is irritated
Strong acne or psoriasis-fighting products can damage or irritate the skin. In response to these products, skin cells will produce melanin in excess. Use products that are labeled "sensitive" or "gentle", instead of choosing products that are strong and can irritate the skin, which can potentially lead to dark spots. Wash your face every day, especially before going to bed at night.
Look for gentle cleansers designed for delicate skin, such as CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, and Ghost Democracy Transparent Gentle Exfoliating Daily Cleanser
Step 6. Avoid using heavy and oily makeup just to cover dark spots
Makeup may be thought of as a quick way to cover up dark spots, but it can actually make the condition worse. If you still want to wear makeup, choose mineral makeup that is labeled non-comedogenic, which can cover dark spots without making the condition worse.
Get non-comedogenic makeup at drugstores, pharmacies, or the internet
Tips
- If you are naturally prone to dark spots on your face, try not to be in direct sunlight too often.
- Also avoid tube tanning skin (tanning bed). UV rays can cause more dark spots.
