How to Get Rid of Dark Spots
Oct 04, 2019
Let's be real, hyperpigmentation isn't something that goes away overnight.
Sure, you can Google, “how to remove dark spots overnight,” and browse over 11 million results ranging from videos, to blog posts to home remedies that will “definitely” lighten your dark spots, then haphazardly follow all the tutorials you have the time for only to wake up the next day with the same spots from the night before.
Or you can be practical and patient while you safely fade dark spots over time and prevent new dark spots from appearing with a few No B.S. tips. You' be surprised how quickly you can see results with a consistent routine.
But first, what exactly is hyperpigmentation?
It’s the release of melanin (pigment) due to the stimulation of melanogenesis.
In simpler terms, dark spots are primarily caused by the abundance of pigment on your skin. However, it’s not that simple. Dark spots on your skin may arise due to several different reasons such as a hormonal imbalance, overexposure to sun, or even because you are predisposed to getting them.
Before you learn how to remove your dark spots, you should learn what type you have, where they come from and why.
What causes dark spots?
Sun Exposure
The main reason you might find that your skin is producing these dark spots is from unprotected overexposure to the sun, or any other type of UV rays.
- Going to the pool or beach often
- Tanning beds
- The light from your computer and phone
- Spending too much time in the sun
Any of these can be the cause of your spots. It is safe to say that before you consider changing anything in your skincare regimen, you should begin to include a daily SPF of 20 or higher.
If your skin is exposed to UV rays on a daily basis the process of evening the complexion will be slower than necessary, if not halted. Even if you're staying inside or if it's a cloudy day - never skip your SPF.
Hormonal Imbalance
Did you know that any hormone fluctuation or imbalance could induce hyperpigmentation? Although in this case it is called melasma.
If this is your struggle, know that melasma affects five to six million American women annually? So, you’re not alone!
- Oral contraceptives
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Thyroid dysfunction
All of these can lead to this type of hyperpigmentation, which is extremely common and sometimes difficult to remove altogether. You should also note that this type of dark spots might not subside once the hormone imbalance is normalized.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
This is when pigment is deposited as a result of surface irritation, inflammation or scarring of your face. Common triggers of this type include:
- Acne
- Dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Bug bites
- Shaving-related ingrown hairs.
This is most common in darker skin tones but can affect men and women of all skin tones. Luckily, this hyperpigmentation can be brightened for a more even complexion.
Tips for fading dark spots
Now that you’ve been introduced to the different types of dark spots that may appear on your face, it is time to figure out what remedy will work best for you. It is also important to note that it is natural for your face to show more marks and spots as you age. Just think of them as battle scars.
Never skip the SPF
This was already mentioned before, but it is so important that it deserves to be mentioned again and again. You should wear a daily SPF of at least 20 on a daily basis. This will not only help in the reduction of dark spots, but it will help prevent the creation of new ones.
When you go to the beach or anywhere with a lot of sun exposure, you should reapply at least every two hours to ensure the UV rays do not have their way with your face.
Try our ultra-hydrating moisturizer with spf 20. It's an easy everyday solution to prevent skin damage. It's better to be proactive and stop the creation of sunspots before they even begin!
Exfoliate properly
While using daily exfoliators can help the reduction of dark circles over time, it can be extremely beneficial to seek professional help.
Treatments such as microdermabrasion, which uses a minimally invasive instrument to sand your skin to remove the thicker outer later, or a superficial peel can be highly effective in removing dead skin and darker spots that sit on the top layers of your skin.
You should check with your dermatologist which procedure can work best for your skin type before you ask for either one.
Increase cell turnover
Cell turnover is the process by which your skin produces new skin cells. Topical creams with ingredients such as retinol are highly effective in improving the overall quality of your skin, as they promote cell turnover and bring new cells to the surface.
Our Retinol Night Cream is sensitive-skin approved and features retinol, the anti-aging and spot-fading ingredient that encourages the production of healthy skin for an even complexion. Say goodbye to dark spots!
Add antioxidants to your routine
To ward off elements that can damage your skin and result in hyperpigmentation, you want to arm yourself with as many antioxidants in your skincare routine as possible. Antioxidants protect your cells from aging free radicals which can come from sun exposure, pollutants, smoke, and even emotional stress.
Our Vitamin C + E Serum is exactly what you need! It's packed with antioxidants, helping to brighten your skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots!
Customize your skincare routine
Dark spots can arise from many different issues that can take months to resolve, so don’t stress out when your treatments are not producing immediate results. Always keep in mind that consistency is key when it comes to caring for your dark spots and creating the appropriate skincare routine.
Here's what we recommend for dark spots: