If there’s anything I absolutely *despise* more than breakouts, it’s the dark spots they leave behind on my face and body. And if you’re also someone who deals with hyperpigmentation, you know just how frustrating skin discoloration can be to cover up and/or treat. So to help you out (and let’s be honest, to help myself out), I turned to board-certified dermatologist Peterson Pierre, MD, for expert advice on how to get rid of dark spots of all different kinds and causes. Keep reading for everything you really, truly need to know.
Dr. Pierre explains that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne, injuries, bug bites, or scratches can fade naturally in a few weeks or months, but things like sun damage or melasma (hyperpigmentation caused by hormones and sun exposure) will need topical or laser intervention, if you’re trying to get rid of them.
How do you get rid of dark spots fast?
Fortunately for you (and me), we’ve got a few treatments. Buuut that being said, this is the part where I remind you that the first step to getting rid of dark spots is to see a dermatologist who can identify what type of discoloration you’re working with, figure out the cause, and determine the best treatment options for your skin. “The cause of the dark spots is actually an important consideration,” Dr. Pierre explains. “Although there is definitely an overlap in treatment plans, different combinations will be used depending on the factors at play.”
While you wait for that consultation with your doc, find out all about the best at-home products and in-office treatments for fading dark spots, below.
1. Glycolic acid
Ditch your face scrub (sorry, but scrubs are generally too aggressive for skin that’s prone to dark spots and hyperpigmentation), and get yourself a chemical exfoliant/acid, instead. One chemical exfoliant that Dr. Pierre recommends for dark spots is glycolic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps dissolve and shed the “glue” between dead, discolored skin cells, leaving you with a clearer, brighter, all-around glowier face.
Plus, by chemically exfoliating away surface-level dead cells, your skin will be better able to absorb any spot treatments or brightening serums you apply afterward, which helps make them more effective. Win-win.
2. Salicylic acid
Another type of chemical exfoliant is called beta hydroxy acids (BHA), which you might know as salicylic acid. As a general rule, dark spots from acne benefit from using chemical exfoliators with salicylic acid because it not only helps with redness and irritation, but it also helps clear excess oil from your pores. Basically, a treatment and a cure. And not only does salicylic acid gently exfoliate, but it also helps to encourage the formation of new skin cells to further help with dark spots.
Read the full story on cosmopolitan.com
Also Read: Grapeseed Oil for Skin: How and Why You Should Be Using It RN
