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Dark spots on the skin, also known as hyperpigmentation, occur when certain areas of the skin produce more pigment (melanin) than usual. Although dark spots on the skin are not a health concern, dark spots on the face do affect beauty. So what are the ways to treat dark spots on the face?
1. What causes dark spots on the face?
Dark spots on the face can appear if the skin overproduces melanin - the pigment that gives the skin its color. Black spots on the skin can range in color from light brown to dark brown and depend on each person's skin tone. The black dots have a skin-like texture and are not painful. Black dots on the skin vary in size and appear anywhere on the body. The most common places to have dark spots on the skin are the back of the hands, face, back, shoulders,..
There are a number of different causes of dark spots, such as:
1.1. Sunlight Dark spots on the skin are also known as sunburn spots, pigmentation spots caused by UV rays. People can develop dark spots on their skin after being exposed to the sun or lying in the sun.
The areas of the body that get the most sun exposure, like the face, hands or arms, are most likely to develop sun spots.
1.2. Hormonal changes Melasma is a skin disorder that results in small patches of discoloration. This condition is more common in women, especially during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
1.3. The aging process Dark spots on the skin are also part of the natural aging process. The dark spots that appear as you age are often in areas that are exposed to a lot of sunlight, such as the face.
1.4. Inflammation Dark spots can develop after an episode of dermatitis from a variety of causes including eczema, psoriasis, skin lesions, and acne.
1.5. After Wounds Dark spots may remain after an insect bite, sting or cut heals. These dark spots may fade over time.
1.6. Irritation Cosmetic products intended for the skin or hair can irritate the skin, causing dark patches to form.
1.7. Diabetes Diabetes can cause areas of the skin to become darker.
Conditions associated with diabetes include acanthosis nigricans, which causes dark, velvety skin and shin spots or diabetic skin disease, which people may mistake for age spots.
1.8. Medication side effects Some medications can increase skin pigmentation and lead to dark spots. The most common are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tetracyclines, and psychotropic drugs.
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2. How to treat dark spots on the face
In most cases, dark spots on the skin are not harmful. But in some cases, it can be difficult to distinguish between dark spots and other skin changes, such as melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer. People who are not sure what a bruise is or have not been able to remove it can visit their doctor to learn more. It is important to talk to a doctor if any of these dark spots appear on the skin:
Sudden appearance Itching Tingling Bleeding Change in color or size If the dark spots on the skin are benign no treatment is needed , but some people may want these spots removed for cosmetic reasons. Methods to get rid of dark spots on the face include medications (skin creams) or procedures. The best treatment option may depend on the cause and size of the dark spot. Some specific black spot treatments include:
2.1. Laser treatment Different laser beams are used in cosmetology for a variety of purposes. To treat dark spots on the face, typically, dermatologists use an intense pulse light laser that targets melanin and breaks down dark spots.
2.2. Microdermabrasion: a special device with an abrasive surface to remove the outer layer of skin. This treatment promotes new collagen production, which can help reduce dark spots on the face.
2.3. Exfoliation Exfoliation is performed by applying an exfoliating solution to the skin that helps exfoliate the surface, resulting in new skin growth. Therefore, it is possible to fade dark spots on the face.
2.4. Cryotherapy Cryotherapy is a procedure that involves applying liquid nitrogen to black dots on the skin to freeze them, damaging skin cells. After recovery, the black spot will fade.
2.5. Cosmeceuticals Use skin lightening creams as directed by your dermatologist. These creams work by bleaching the skin. It usually works gradually and takes several months to reduce the appearance of dark spots. Hydroquinone is an ingredient found in many creams and plays a role in preventing the skin from producing melanin. Prescription products tend to have concentrations of 3–4 percent.
2.6. Some home remedies for dark spots on the face In addition to cosmetic procedures and prescription drugs, some home remedies can fade dark spots on the skin, such as:
Over-the-counter creams: Skin creams Over-the-counter skin lighteners aren't as potent as prescription medications, but they can work, too. Creams and serums contain a variety of ingredients, including retinol or alpha hydroxy acids, that can accelerate exfoliation and promote new skin growth. When looking for a skin-lightening cream, always choose one that is recommended by a dermatologist, as some products can be harmful. Natural remedies: Products with certain natural ingredients can help treat dark spots on the skin. Researchers published a systematic review They looked at several ingredients including niacinamide (a form of vitamin B-3), soy, licorice extract, and mulberry. Although studies are limited, researchers say that these natural treatments show great promise in lightening hyperpigmented skin. Results of a small 2017 study showed that applying aloe vera gel to the skin can help reduce melasma during pregnancy after 5 weeks. Cosmetics: Although cosmetics do not fade blemishes, they can cover them. You might consider using a concealer to reduce the appearance of dark spots.
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3. Prevention of dark spots on the face
You can't always prevent dark spots from developing, for example, hormonal changes during pregnancy cause melasma. However, there are some methods to help reduce the risk of dark spots appearing on the skin and prevent them from becoming darker such as:
Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even if the sun is not bright. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for extra skin protection. Treat skin conditions that can lead to inflammation such as acne. Avoid sunlight during the time when UV rays are strongest, about 10-16 hours. As such, dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, can have many causes, but they are usually harmless and require no treatment. However, for better looking skin, there are several treatments to fade and remove dark spots on the skin. The effectiveness of treatment may depend on the cause of the dark spots and how severe they are. Dark spots on the skin may not go away completely but will fade.
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References: medicalnewstoday.com, medicalnewstoday.com
