(Except sun protection; that one’s universal!)
Some people struggle withacne, others dryness, some redness, a combinationthe list goes on.
Let’s dive in.
What are dark spots?
First things first: What is a dark spot?
While that generally covers what dark spotsare, the causes vary.
Others are brought on by hormonal factorswe’ll dive into the details in a bit.
It’s important to know what’s causing them to pin down the best treatment.
Sun exposure
As Suarez mentioned before, dark spots can be caused byUV exposure.
In fact, up to80% of premature aging1is because of UV rays.
Plus, forgetting SPF could make those dark spots become even darker.
Hormones
As we mentioned earlier,hormonal changes can cause dark spots2as well.
Rashes
In addition to targeted inflammation like those mentioned above, rashes can also trigger dark spots.
How to get rid of dark spots:
Now, let’s talk treatments.
Yes, you could help fade dark spots.
Just be mindful not to be too aggressive, or else you may further inflame the skin.
Retinol
First up, we haveretinoidsin all forms.
Both prescription-grade retinoids and over-the-counter (OTC) retinol products can help fade dark spots.
For those with acne-prone skin, retinoids can also be helpful in managing breakouts as well.
Check out our full guide to learn more about theins and outs of vitamin C serums.
They’re different products, but they function in a similar way.
This ingredient is more gentle but will still help fade dark spots over time.
“It does so by exfoliating the skin, but it also isanti-inflammatory7,” Suarez says.
“Because of its structure, it favors oily areas, like the T-zone.”
Can this help fade dark spots?
So harsh, saltlike scrubs are a no-go.
However, if you must exfoliate using physical means, do so with care.
Kojic acid
If melasma patches are your current concern,kojic acidmight be your best bet.
Enter, kojic acid.
Plus, it doubles as an antioxidant.
“Arbutin is an ingredient that reduces tyrosinase activity,” Boakye explains.
Tyrosinase is a group of enzymes in the skin that contribute to the skin’s pigmentation process.
But this lightening agent is a bit more gentle than its common predecessors thanks to the slow release process.
Facials
Facialscan be helpful when it comes to dark spot treatment as well.
Lasers
Laser treatments are another in-office option.
LED light
Generally speaking,LED lightswill not directly help lighten dark spots.
However, they are key when it comes to preventing future spots, especially those brought on by breakouts.
So if you’re tired of those pesky post-acne spots, LED light tools may be of assistance.
Wear sunscreen.
Sure, this falls under the prevention categorybut prevention is always the best treatment.
However, not everyone likes mineral formulas.
Here, ourfavorite sunscreens.
FAQ
How can I remove dark spots on my face fast?
There are several topicals shown to help fade dark spotsand some, rather quickly!
Retinols also work effectively to fade pigmentation within weeks.
How can I lighten dark spots naturally?
Aloe has the naturally occurring aloesin, which has brightening capabilities that can help speed up this fading process.
Apple cider vinegar is full of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can also exfoliate the skin.
And buttermilk contains lactic acid, which is a gentle AHA that can buff dark spots.
Do dark spots on face go away?
Dark spots can go away on their ownif their root cause is identified and addressed.
This will take time, however: Up to six to 12 months.
The takeaway.
Dark spots can be because of acne, sun exposure, rashes, hormones, and general skin inflammation.
If you’re ready to add to cart, check out ourtop dark-spot-correcting productsfor bright, glowing skin.
