How to get rid of dark spots on your skin?
Dark spots are a common skin concern that can affect anyone. Several people suffer from this condition due to a variety of factors. Whether caused by hormonal changes, sun exposure, or ageing, dark spots can reduce your skin's natural radiance.
It is essential to follow a skincare routine that includes ingredients which target the appearance of dark spots. To prevent dark spots from developing or darkening, wear protective clothing, use sunscreen, and look for shade during peak sun hours.
This blog will teach you about dark spots and how to eliminate them effectively.
What are dark spots?
Dark spots on the skin or hyperpigmentation happens when melanin is overproduced. You should know that melanin gives your skin, eyes, and hair their colour. Dark spots are discoloured patches on the skin, which can be black, yellow, or brown. They are often found on the face, hands, and arms.
Symptoms of dark spots
Symptoms of dark spots can differ depending on the cause. However, some common symptoms of dark spots include:
- Increased pigmentation
- Discoloration of your skin
- Itching or burning sensations
- Patchy or uneven skin colouration
- Bruising or bleeding
Remember, dark spots can vary in size and develop on any body part.
Causes of dark spots
When it comes to dark spots, there can be several causes, including:
Sun damage
Also known as sunspots, liver spots, or solar lentigines, you can develop dark skin spots after sun exposure or tanning beds. Sun exposure is the most common cause of dark spots. Ultraviolet rays of the sun can damage your skin cells and make them produce more melanin. This further leads to the development of dark spots.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes can lead to the development of dark spots. Conditions such as melasma arise when hormones are imbalanced in the body. This further leads to patches of hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the face.
Genetics
Genetic predisposition might impact the susceptibility of your skin to dark spots. People with a family history of hyperpigmentation can have more chances of developing dark spots, irrespective of external factors.
Ageing
As you age, your skin's natural processes become less effective, including the distribution of melanin. This further leads to the accumulation of pigmentation in certain areas and causes dark brown to black spots.
Friction and rubbing
Areas of skin that experience constant friction, like inner thighs or underarms, can develop dark brown marks or spots as your skin responds to repeated irritation.
How to get rid of dark spots?
If you have dark spots on the skin, several treatment options can help you eliminate them. Some popular treatment options include:
Laser therapy
Laser procedures, such as intense pulsed light or factional laser therapy, can focus on melanin within areas of hyperpigmentation, leading to decreased appearance. Usually, these procedures are conducted by dermatologists or skilled practitioners.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels use chemical solutions to eliminate the outer skin layers, assisting new skin to grow and decreasing the appearance of your dark spots.
Cryotherapy
During the cryotherapy procedure, liquid nitrogen is utilized to freeze and remove the additional melanin in dark spots. This further makes the dark spots fade away.
Home remedies
You can also try natural remedies such as aloe vera, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and green tea extract. All this helps to lighten the dark spots on the skin. Make sure to conduct a patch test first to avoid unwanted skin irritation.
Summary
Therefore, before you start any treatment for dark spots, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist so that a suitable approach for your skin type can be determined.
Yes, dark spots on the skin can be removed. You can try at-home treatments, which may take a few months to show results or opt for medical treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy performed by a dermatologist.
To lighten dark spots quickly, procedures that remove layers of discoloured skin, such as laser treatments, cryotherapy, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and chemical peels. However, topical lightening creams may also help you lighten dark spots.
In most cases, dark spots are harmless. However, it can sometimes be challenging to differentiate between dark spots and other skin conditions, such as melanoma, a type of skin cancer. If you're unsure, it's best to consult a dermatologist for evaluation.
Dark spots can be challenging to treat, and while some may fade over time, permanent removal depends on the type and cause. Prescription-strength treatments, often prescribed by a dermatologist, can help lighten or remove dark spots. A dermatologist can safely combine treatments for the best long-term results.
