Fading dark spots on your face starts with a step many people skip: finding the cause. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), dark spots appear because something triggers the skin to make extra melanin. Remove the trigger and many spots clear on their own, and new ones can be prevented.
Why do dark spots appear?
In medium to dark skin, spots often appear after acne, insect bites, cuts or irritation. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure, including visible light, can make spots darker.
Ingredients that can fade dark spots
The AAD lists ingredients that can fade dark spots, including in products you can buy without a prescription:
- Azelaic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Kojic acid
- Retinoids, such as retinol, tretinoin, adapalene gel or tazarotene
- Vitamin C
These can fade existing spots, and some also slow melanin production. The AAD warns to choose carefully, because some spot-fading products contain ingredients harmful to your skin and health. Choose officially registered products or ones recommended by a dermatologist.
Steps to treat dark spots
- Find and avoid the trigger, such as picking at acne, sun exposure or irritating products.
- Wear sunscreen every day. The AAD recommends broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher labeled “tinted”, because its iron oxide helps protect against visible light that darkens skin. See how to apply sunscreen correctly.
- Introduce one active at a time. Go slowly and watch for irritation, which can trigger new spots.
- See a dermatologist if needed. A dermatologist can safely combine treatments, including prescriptions and procedures, for stubborn spots.
Example: a dark spot routine from Kira
Spots that change shape, grow, have uneven color, itch or bleed should be checked by a doctor. Do not try to cover them with self-care.
A complete routine
Dark spots are often linked to acne and oily skin. If that sounds familiar, start with skincare for oily skin so new breakouts do not leave marks.
Ask Kira about your dark spots
Send a photo of the area to Kira on WhatsApp. Kira builds a morning and night routine with ingredients to look for and avoid, product links, and a suggestion to see a doctor when the condition needs medical care. See the dark spot example.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most effective way to fade dark spots?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, first find and avoid the trigger, then wear sunscreen daily. Ingredients such as azelaic acid, glycolic acid, kojic acid, retinoids and vitamin C can help fade spots. For stubborn spots, see a dermatologist.
Why is sunscreen important for dark spots?
Sunlight, including visible light, can make spots darker. The AAD recommends a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen labeled tinted, because it contains iron oxide that helps protect skin from visible light.
Are dark spot fading creams safe?
Not all of them. The AAD warns that some spot-fading products contain ingredients harmful to skin and health. Choose officially registered products or ones recommended by a dermatologist, and stop if irritation occurs.
Sources
Facts in this article refer to the sources below.
- Skincare
- Flek hitam
- Sunscreen
- Kulit wajah
