Every day, we try as best we can to put our best face forward. With the increasing prevalence of video conferencing, many individuals are noticing cosmetic imperfections that make them self-conscious and cause them some degree of anxiety.
One of the most common concerns are areas of darker pigmentation. These areas of hyperpigmentation can be residual scars left by acne, age spots, sun exposure, etc. Regardless of their origin, many are turning to cosmetic professionals for help getting rid of dark spots on their faces.
Today, we are going to talk about what we discovered about how to get rid of dark spots on the face naturally and using specialty cosmetic treatments.
What Are The Most Common Cause Of Dark Spots On The Face?
Hyperpigmentation
Dark spots that show up on your face can happen for many reasons. If your skin makes too much melanin (the pigment in your skin that provides its color), it creates a condition known as hyperpigmentation.
Some of the underlying causes of hyperpigmentation include the following:
- The normal aging process;
- Changes in your hormone levels or a hormone imbalance;
- Exposure to the sun.
PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)
When your dermis or epidermis becomes irritated or damaged, it can trigger a response called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and cause the irritated areas to become darker than the surrounding skin. While anyone can experience PIH, it tends to be more common in individuals who have darker complexions. Some of the common causes of PIH include:
- Acne;
- Atopic dermatitis;
- Insect bites;
- Cuts;
- Burns;
- Impetigo;
- Psoriasis scarring;
- Abrasive skincare products;
- Harsh techniques used for hair removal.
Are There Any Ways To Get Rid Of Dark Spots On The Face Naturally?
Initiating a Google search with the phrase “How to get rid of dark spots on the face naturally” returned 344,000,000 results as of the date of this article. While we found many different DIY remedies for reducing visible dark spots on the face, there is little science-based evidence to back them up. There are only a handful of clinical studies, and the evidence they provide is limited due to the short duration of the studies.
Many natural ingredients contain forms of acid, which appear to be those that showed some slight improvement in dark spots when applied consistently. One study showed some slight lightening improvements resulting from the use of ascorbic acid, vitamin C, turmeric, and green tea, but these elements were not used in their natural form during the study but contained within creams and topical treatments.
Home Remedies for Dark Spots
Some of the ingredients in the DIY remedies we found that claim to get rid of dark spots on the face include:
- Fresh lemon juice (which can be mixed with yogurt as a mask);
- Baking soda paste;
- Aloe Vera gel;
- Apple Cider Vinegar;
- Red Onion Extract;
- Papaya Pulp;
- Buttermilk;
- Tomatoes (used in paste form as a mask);
- Honey;
- Chickpeas;
- Turmeric.
While some of these ingredients may help lighten dark spots on the face to some degree, they may do more harm than good. Some may be too harsh on the skin and cause redness and irritation.
Working With A Doctor To Get Rid Of Dark Spots On The Face
A doctor can help determine the best treatment to get rid of dark spots on your face. Your general practitioner may be able to assist you, or you can consult with a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon.
Prescription And OTC Creams
There are a variety of creams that are available with a prescription and over the counter that can be tried as a first-line treatment to lighten dark spots. It is important to make sure you are obtaining your topical treatment from a reputable place (your doctor) rather than purchasing something from an unfamiliar online retailer. Some ingredients contained in treatments formulated to lighten dark spots on the face have been found to be dangerous.
Some of the topical treatments available over the counter and by prescription will have ingredients such as:
- Retinol;
- Hydroquinone (short-term only);
- Vitamin C Serum;
- Alpha-hydroxy acid;
- Beta-hydroxy acid;
- Kojic acid;
- Glycolic acid;
- Mandelic acid.
Cosmetic Treatments
Topical treatments may help clear up some of your cosmetic concerns, but if you are wondering how to get rid of dark acne spots on your face or areas of PIH that have been unresponsive to topical treatments, you may wish to consult with a cosmetic surgeon. Dark spots can be eradicated safely and more quickly using various medical-grade cosmetic treatments performed by a skilled and expertly trained professional. Some of these procedures include:
Co2 Laser
Laser treatments are used to reduce dark spots by removing the pigment and causing the darker skin to flake off. The cosmetic surgeon will choose the correct laser treatment depending on the patient’s skin type, skin tone, sun exposure factors, and the underlying cause of the dark spots.
Chemical Peels
These facials are performed in your cosmetic surgeon’s office and contain some of the same acid exfoliants that are found in OTC creams, but they are professional strength. When applied to the face, depending on how strong they are, they cause the top layer or several layers of skin to peel off, taking with them the dark spots. A chemical peel will uncover fresh, new skin underneath and give your face a renewed, healthy glow.
Sylfirm X
This procedure uses a blend of radiofrequency energy and microneedling to treat a wide range of cosmetic issues. It is strong enough that it is effective in reducing the appearance of dark acne scars and gentle enough to be used on the more vulnerable under-eye area. The procedure is customizable, so it is safe for all skin types.
Microdermabrasion
Depending on the origin of the dark spots and how deep they run, a microdermabrasion treatment may be an effective solution. This procedure removes the top layer of skin using a hand-held wand that breaks up the cells on the outer layer using tiny crystals and removes the debris, leaving behind a new layer of softer, smoother skin.
Seek Help From A Professional
If you desire clearer, more youthful-looking skin that is free from dark spots, the best way to obtain the look you desire is to work with professionals like the team at SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics. We will discuss your skin concerns with you during a consultation and then formulate a plan to achieve your desired results.
Led by Dr. Angelina Postoev, a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics has a reputation for excellent results, the highest safety standards, and exceptional patient care. Bring us your skincare concerns, and we will help alleviate them, enhancing your natural beauty so you look as good as you feel.
