How to reduce the appearance dark spots in darker complexions
Developing dark spots is a big concern in all skin types. Dark spots can form as the result of damage to the skin caused by sun exposure, acne scars and hormonal imbalances. Your skin contains melanocyte which produces melanin. When it becomes overstimulated it can produce too much melanin.
Darker skin colors are more likely to suffer from two types of dark spots – melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. According to the American Association (AAD) of Dermatology, “Those with light skin can develop melasma, but the condition is more common in dark skin. Because a deeper skin layer (the dermis) may be affected, melasma can be difficult to treat and requires a multifaceted treatment regimen.” [1] Melasma is a skin discoloration that occurs on areas of the face that are exposed to the sun and is commonly referred to as “the mask of pregnancy” because it frequently occurs during pregnancy.
As mentioned above, another issue that affects darker-skinned is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The AAD says, “Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a condition in which an injury or inflammation to the skin causes increased pigment production. PIH occurs in darker-skinned individuals and, like melasma, can be difficult to treat when it involves a deeper skin layer. The most common cause of PIH is acne, but it also can result from psoriasis, a burn, or an injury.”
We’re walking you through how to help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and how products rich in antioxidants can help reduce the appearance of dark spots.
How To Assess And Protect Your Skin
1. SPF
No matter what your skin type, always make sure to protect your skin from sun’s UV rays. Although dark skin contains more melanin to protect itself from the sun, you still always need to use at least a broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher. It’s also recommended that you cover up with a hat and wear sunglasses. Pay extra attention to your face, chest and hands because that’s where dark spots mainly form — make sure you are always protected by the best SPF moisturizer or sunscreen you can find.
2. Don't Pick
In the aftermath of squeezing a pimple, picking a scab, or the result of acne, dark skin can produce more melanin to protect it. This causes dark spots in the form of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
3. Reassess Hormones
Hormone fluctuations can cause your skin to produce more melanin.
How To Help Reduce The Appearance Of Dark Spots
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great ingredient to help minimize the appearance of dark spots. Look for Vitamin C in the form of a serum or moisturizer. Don’t forget to apply SPF afterwards if you are using Vitamin C in your morning routine.
2. Retinol
Retinol can smooth skin and encourage surface skin cell turnover. Use it sparingly (it can irritate some types of skin) to take advantage of its exfoliating quality and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
3. Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid also has an exfoliating effect and can help reduce the appearance of dark spots.
[1] American Association Of Dermatology
