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How to clear dark spots?
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #11833
45 days ago
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How to clear dark spots? - #11833

Kimaya

I am dealing with these annoying dark spots on my skin and honestly, I'm at my wits end! I didn’t even notice them before, but after a recent trip to the beach where I forgot sunscreen, they just popped up. My skin looked fine until a few weeks ago, but now it’s like old, stubborn spots are just hanging out, especially on my cheeks and forehead. I’ve been trying some over-the-counter creams for dark spots, but nothing seems to work! I’m really not sure how to clear dark spots properly. Should I be looking for specific ingredients in products or is there a whole routine that I’m missing? And what about lifestyle changes—do they even make a difference? I heard a lot about diet and hydration, but honestly that sounds a bit vague. Do things like exfoliation or chemical peels help when trying to clear dark spots? I’m just frustrated because I don’t want to keep buying product after product without seeing any results. I’m even contemplating seeing a dermatologist, but I'm unsure if that's the necessary step. Really wondering how to clear dark spots without spending a fortune or making my skin worse. Would love to hear what’s worked for anybody else. Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Dark spots, often called hyperpigmentation, can be frustrating, but there are evidence-based steps to manage them effectively. Your situation following sun exposure makes it more likely that these are related to UV damage. The first vital step is daily sun protection. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is essential, rain or shine. This prevents existing spots from worsening and new ones from forming. Look for creams or serums containing ingredients known to address pigmentation issues. Hydroquinone, a popular choice, works by inhibiting melanin production, but it’s strong and should be used with caution as it can irritate the skin. Alternatives include vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinoids, which can gradually lighten spots with consistent use. A mild exfoliant like glycolic acid can help by promoting turnover of pigmented skin cells, but don’t overdo it. Over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and worsen discoloration.

In terms of lifestyle, diet impacts skin health too. A diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables can support skin repair processes. Hydration is also essential, as well-hydrated skin can help to maintain skin barrier function. While chemical peels and laser treatments can be effective, they’re typically more invasive and might require professional guidance from a dermatologist to ensure suitability for your specific skin type. Avoid experimenting too much with various products at once, as you could inadvertently stress your skin further. Seeing a dermatologist is a sound option, especially if over-the-counter methods aren’t effective. They can provide tailored advice and potentially prescribe stronger topical treatments. Remember, results take time, and consistency is key in any skincare regimen.

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