Have you looked in the mirror and noticed dark spots appearing on your face? Most people start to experience this ‘hyper pigmentation’ as they get older for a number of reasons. It is caused when the skin produces excess ‘melanin’ creating patches of darker skin.
The cause of dark spots is sun damage which increases melanin production and affects 90% of people over 60. Another cause is hormone imbalances triggered by pregnancy and the menopause. As we get older as the skin cell renewal is slower, we can also get trauma and changes can affect our skin.
How to Get Rid of and Reduce Dark Spots
There are a number of ways to improve the appearance of your skin and reduce the dark spots. So, do not worry – you can clear your skin in a few weeks. However, it’s also important to ensure that there is no medical reason your skin is changing as, as dark spots can be linked to cancer. So if you see any major changes, we recommend getting checked out by a doctor.
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Chemical Exfoliation
If your dark spots are new and superficial a deep exfoliation will help to remove the damaged layers of darkened skin. Choose ones which contain dissolving chemicals that break up the dark skin surface. Including alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic and lactic acids), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) and enzymes from fruit extracts.
Try this Garnier Active Daily Blemish Shine
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Dark Skin Serums
There are a number of special serums that target dark spots. The following help to lighten the skin, fade freckles, increase moisturising and reduce dark spots.
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Laser Renew
Kiehl’s – Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution
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Dark Skin Creams
There are a range of skincare creams that help to lighten and erase dark spots,
The NIVEA Q10 Power Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Age Spot Day Cream has Q10 antioxidants and natural ageing defence. It has an SPF of 30 to protect the skin from UV rays and creatine to help skin cells regenerate preventing further dark spots from forming.
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Sunscreens and Sun Exposure
The best treatment is to reduce sun exposure and always use a high SFP and moisturisers with SPF in them. Make sure you wear a hat and sunglasses when you are out. Combine this with some of the other treatments to get the best results.
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Micro Needling
Using micro needling to break up the melanin in the dark spots can help to reduce them and stimulate new collagen grow which helps reverse the discolouration.
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Microdermabrasion
This treatment removes the top layer of skin which can reduce the signs of sun damage and lines. And it makes the skin more responsive when you apply the dark skin creams
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Laser and Light therapy
Laser and light therapy are a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to repair and regenerate the skin, stimulating more collagen production which reduces the darkness and improves the skin .
The gradual appearance of dark spots and patches, especially on the cheeks, lip and forehead can affect your self-confidence and self-esteem. It can be affected by many factors, especially sun exposure and hormones. The best way to treat it is to have a good skin care regime that protects you from over exposure and treats the affected dark spots . In addition to the products there are a range of treatments which brighten the dark spots including chemical peel micro needling, laser, microdermabrasion and light-based therapies.
