how to treat dark spots on face - #14394
I am really worried about these dark spots on my face. They started showing up a few months ago, and at first, I thought maybe it was just some acne scars from my teenage years or something. But now it feels like they’re multiplying or darkening, and it's driving me insane! I've tried a couple of over-the-counter creams that claim to help with how to treat dark spots on face, but nothing seems to work. I even went to a dermatologist who suggested some chemical peels and a specific serum, but I'm just not sure if that’s the right way to go. Then, I heard from a friend about natural remedies like lemon juice and aloe vera, but I worry about irritating my skin – cause it can be sensitive, right? Can anyone please share their experiences or tips on how to treat dark spots on face? Should I be avoiding the sun more aggressively, or are there better products out there? It’s so frustrating because I feel self-conscious all the time now. Everyone keeps saying it’s about skincare routine, but I don’t even know where to start! If anyone has advice on how to treat dark spots on face effectively, I’d really appreciate it. Really hoping to get my confidence back!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Managing dark spots on your face involves a combination of protecting the skin, using appropriate treatments, and sometimes just recognizing that improvement can take time. It seems like these spots could be from a variety of causes, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun exposure, or hormonal changes. Starting with sun protection is crucial; using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day can prevent spots from getting darker. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors for extended periods. It’s the simplest yet most effective preventive measure. As for treatment, while over-the-counter creams have varying success, look for products containing ingredients like glycolic acid, kojic acid, retinoids, or vitamin C. These can help to lighten existing spots, but they need to be used consistently over several weeks to months for visible results. Since your skin is sensitive, introducing one product at a time is wise to monitor any reactions. Chemical peels and serums recommended by a dermatologist can indeed be effective, as they involve more intensive acids at a controlled concentration. If you are unsure, perhaps consider a patch test or discuss with dermatologists any potential concerns. Natural remedies such as lemon juice and aloe vera are popular but can sometimes irritate sensitive skin due to their acidic nature and should be used cautiously. I would recommend starting with small amounts, ideally on less sensitive areas to test your skin’s reaction. It’s also important to have a gentle hydrating routine to maintain the skin barrier; a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer can be beneficial here. If dark spots continue to persist or worsen, follow up with your dermatologist for personalized care. Sometimes, underlying health conditions can contribute to these skin changes, so a thorough clinical evaluation is always a good step if there are any systemic symptoms.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.