You could follow a strict skincare routine, drink lots of water, and wash your pillowcase weekly and you would still have breakouts. The good news is that you don’t have to be stuck with dark spots for good, and some super effective treatments can even be found in your cupboards at home…
Are dark spots messing with your glow up? Here are 3 ways to get rid of dark spots:
First things first… what are they?
We’re so glad you asked! Dark spots – sometimes also referred to as age spots – are a form of pigmentation known as hyperpigmentation, and occur when too much melanin is produced or secreted, creating darker spots (they can be brown, grey or even red in appearance) on your face or body.
Melanin is the pigment in our bodies that is responsible for the colour of our skin, so when too much is secreted, those areas that are affected will naturally go darker. Thankfully though, you don’t have to be stuck with the discolouration forever and sometimes these dark patches or spots can be pretty easy to treat.
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Yay – so, how do I prevent them?
1. You need to up your sunscreen game. The sun’s rays stimulate the production of melanin (that’s how you get a tan), which is what the skin produces in order to protect itself from burning, so the sun will only make the appearance of dark spots more intense. Since an SPF helps block out those UV rays, it will help with preventing dark spots too.
2. Stop picking those pimples! Once you pop a pimple, bacteria gets inside, which can leave a mark or scar, and this can quite easily turn into a dark spot. If you’ve got a breakout or unsightly pimple, rather use a suitable cream or serum to treat it.
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Great, now how do treat dark spots once I’ve got them?
3. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser treatment are all good options. Depending on which you choose, they give an intense exfoliation and remove the dead layers of skin, while also specifically targeting the dark spot. Some treatments can be pricey, but they really are worth it as they can seriously help! Speak to a dermatologist or beauty therapist about the best option for you.
If your dark spots aren’t too bad yet, look for a brightening serum to use on the affected area. Most skin care brands have them, so you shouldn’t struggle to find one you like. You can also turn to your fridge or pantry; lemon juice, yoghurt and apple cider vinegar are just a few of the products that can be used to reverse the appearance of dark spots, so get applying!
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This post was first seen on All4Women.