A question has always boggled my mind; why do we cover up dark spots with makeup when there are lasting solutions? Once you wash it off, the skin blemish is right there in the same place. Girl, since it makes you uncomfortable, we NEED to find a long-term solution, like NOW! I recently read a study where a developmental-behavioral pediatrics expert, Dweck, confirmed that recognizing differences in physical attributes can affect one’s self-esteem. I was like, “Yes, preach that, sir!”
Hiding your flaw might be the biggest flaw of all. So, I took it upon myself to compile a few lasting treatments for hyperpigmentation, authorized by medical professionals, for my best readers 🙂 because you deserve to feel all shades of confidence. You don’t need to cover anything because you’re beautiful, and it’s time for you to get your true colors back, sis!
Top 4 Ways to Get Rid of Dark Spots
1. Chemical & Laser Peel
To treat the targeted region of skin, a chemical peel utilizes acids in higher concentrations. They remove the epidermis to minimize hyperpigmentation. Deeper versions may also reach your skin’s inner layer (dermis), resulting in more dramatic effects. Targeted light beams are used in a laser peel (resurfacing) procedure to decrease hyperpigmentation.
If you have melasma, age spots, blotchy skin, or sun damage, chemical peels may help. Note that they are better for fairer skin tones. People with fair skin may benefit from ablative lasers. Non-ablative versions may cause the skin to darken rather than lighten in certain persons. Your dermatologist will examine your discoloration and general skin tone to determine the best treatment choice for your skin.
2. Lightening creams
Over-the-counter (OTC) lightening creams are treatments that use specific chemicals to reduce pigmentation. Flat spots, like age spots or melasma, are best treated with whitening lotions or gels. Overall, you can apply it once or twice a day to gradually lighten the skin. Gel-based lightning treatments are also available.
These are the ingredients you should be on the lookout for in OTC lightening creams:
● vitamin B-3 (niacinamide)
● hydroquinone
● N-acetylglucosamine
● licorice extract
3. Intense pulsed light therapy (IPL)
This therapy is a non-ablative (fractional) laser treatment. IPL is ideal for those with fair skin, according to Emory Healthcare. IPL treatment, AKA photofacial, promotes collagen formation in the dermis. Girl, this procedure lasts more than most dates, as you will need several sessions.
IPL is implemented to address pigmentation problems in general, but flat areas, particularly, react well to the therapy. It might also aid in the reduction of enlarged pores, wrinkles, and spider veins.
4. Retinoids
Retinoids, which are extracted from vitamin A, are one of the earliest known OTC skincare products. They may perforate layers of the skin and repair the tissues underneath the epidermis because of their tiny molecular nature.
Retinoids are available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms. OTC equivalents, on the other hand, are usually weaker. After a few months, if you haven’t seen any benefits, speak with your dermatologist considering tretinoin, a prescription retinoid (Retin-A).
Although OTC retinoids may be acceptable for all skin tones, you should consult your dermatologist if you have more melanin in your skin and want to use these treatments for a long time.
It’s great that you made it to the end of the article! Your body is a temple and I am proud knowing you are treating it as one. It is not one of those things you “fake it till you make it.” Love your body, cherish your body, nourish it, and give your best. It is fulfilling. Moreover, your physical appearance says a lot about you, sis! Make you try any of the tips above according to your skin type to get rid of dark spots.