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Acne black spot removal
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #11882
45 days ago
71

Acne black spot removal - #11882

Reet

I am dealing with these really annoying black spots left over from my acne, and it's driving me nuts! Like, I thought I was finally getting my break from the breakouts, but now I’m stuck with these dark marks everywhere. I’ve tried a few over-the-counter creams but nothing's seemed to work. Someone told me that for acne black spot removal, I might need to look into things like chemical peels or laser treatments, but I’m super hesitant about all of that. Do those really help? Also, are there any good home remedies for acne black spot removal that don’t involve spending a fortune? Budget is kinda tight these days, and honestly, I would love to avoid any procedures if I can. I read somewhere that things like vitamin C or retinol might help with acne black spot removal, but I’m confused about how to use them or make sure they’re effective without causing more breakouts. How do I know which routine to follow? Is there a point where my skin won’t heal from all this? I just want my skin looking normal again. Has anyone else been through this? What worked for you?

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Doctors’ responses

Dealing with post-acne black spots, typically referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), can indeed be a bit tricky. These spots are a common aftermath of acne, as they result from skin inflammation where excess melanin has started to accumulate in the healing process. If over-the-counter products haven’t been effective, it’s important to understand that some treatments require consistent and prolonged use to see changes. First, consider topical treatments containing ingredients like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, or niacinamide, all known for their skin-lightening properties. These may be available in both over-the-counter products and prescription formulations. Vitamin C and retinol can indeed be useful. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and can help brighten the skin tone, while retinol increases cell turnover and can fade pigmentation over time. Apply vitamin C serum in the morning followed by sunscreen, as it offers photoprotection, and use retinol a few times per week at night, gradually increasing frequency as your skin adjusts. Always wear sunscreen daily, as UV exposure can worsen pigmentation. Home remedies like a consistent use of aloe vera gel or green tea extract might offer some improvement, however, the results can be subtle and slow. For more invasive options, chemical peels with agents like glycolic acid or salicylic acid and laser treatments are viable but typically more costly. They’re generally effective at resurfacing the skin and removing pigmentation by targeting the melanin at deeper skin layers. It’s key to consult a dermatologist to explore these and ensure they’re appropriate for your skin type and concerns. Remember, abrupt or excessive use of any new treatment risking irritation might exacerbate acne or pigmentation. Stick to a routine with gentle, suitable products for a couple of months to accurately assess changes. If you’re ever unsure or your condition seems persistent, seek professional guidance to tailor the treatments to protect your skin long term and address any underlying conditions appropriately.

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