No matter how hard you try, dark spots on your face, also known as hyperpigmentation, will eventually emerge. Dark spots form when the skin creates an excess of melanin, the natural brown pigment that gives our skin color. The specific reasons why black spots emerge vary from acne scars or excessive sun exposure to aging or nutritional deficits. However, most black patches are caused by sun exposure.

When your skin is exposed to the sun, it naturally produces melanin, which helps to prevent UV radiation from further harming your DNA and skin. This is why our skin tans when we spend time in the sun, our skin tns. It is also the reason why people with fair skin burn readily in the sun, whilst people with darker skin are less prone to develop sunburn. Occasionally, the light causes an uneven rise in melanin production. This extra melanin clumps together and pours between skin cells, resulting in dark blotches.

The different types of dark spots—and why they occur

Sunspots or Solar Lentigines

Sunspots often form as a result of prolonged UV exposure. They are most usually found on sun-exposed skin areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) 

This sort of discoloration is caused by skin damage or inflammation, which is why dermatologists warn us not to pop our pimples. However, PIH can develop following an eczema or psoriasis flare-up. Once the skin heals, any wounded region may appear darker than the surrounding skin.

Melasma

Melasma is characterized by symmetrical, blotchy brownish facial pigmentation that most commonly appears on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. It is assumed to be linked to hormonal changes and sun exposure, and it is more frequent in women, especially during pregnancy or when using hormonal contraception.

Age Spots or Liver Spots 

Age or liver spots, like sunspots, are flat brown or black spots caused by prolonged sun exposure.

Ways to Get Rid of Dark Spots

Here are some dermatologist-approved ways to get rid of black spots, from daily sun protection to revitalizing retinol treatments:

Aways Apply SPF

Your first line of defense will always be sunscreen. Everyone should apply at least SPF 30 to their face every day and reapply every two hours if they are outside in the sun or sitting near a window.

Consider Antioxidant-Rich Products

You should also use antioxidant-rich skin-care products to help minimize free radicals that might cause hyperpigmentation. Consider taking vitamins A, C, and E, as well as ferulic acid, resveratrol, and niacinamide.

Reach for Retin-A or Retinol

It's also crucial to develop the practice of gently exfoliating the skin to eliminate dead skin cells, which frequently harbor extra pigment. This can be accomplished by applying a topical retinoid medication that cures and fades hyperpigmentation. Retin-A (tretinoin) or retinoids are the best, an ingredient that may be obtained through a cosmetic subscription service; retinol is the next best option without a prescription.

Retinol is a weaker over-the-counter retinoid that can have similar advantages in reducing the appearance of dark spots; however, it usually takes considerably longer.

Incorporate Gentle Exfoliants

To treat dark spots, use a product with an exfoliating active ingredient, such as AHA, to remove the top layer of skin. This type of exfoliant contains glycolic, mandelic, and lactic acids, which help to exfoliate dead skin cells while hydrating the skin. If you prefer a serum formula, there are lactic acid-based choices that exfoliate and brighten your skin. Similarly, at-home peels may benefit patients who cannot receive expert therapy.

Try Specialized Treatments

Those seeking a dermatologist-approved remedy should check out Cyspera's system. Cyspera is the greatest option for patients coping with hyperpigmentation, particularly those of color because hyperpigmentation can be difficult to treat adequately in darker skin. Its key ingredient, cysteamine, is a unique amino acid derivative that reduces pigment and is beneficial for all skin tones.

On the other hand, a few contemporary cosmetics labels are creating headlines for their effective products. Topicals Faded serum employs a combination of tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide to minimize the appearance of dark spots, patches, and post-acne scars. Ourself's brightening serum, on the other hand, is driven by the brand's unique technology, which is filled with peptides and powerful brightening chemicals, as well as vitamin C and niacinamide, to prevent the overproduction of new melanin and lighten existing spots.