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how to remove dark patches from skin
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #18752
68 days ago
115

how to remove dark patches from skin - #18752

Mahi

I am struggling with this issue for a while now. A few months ago, I noticed these really annoying dark patches on my skin, mostly on my cheeks and forehead. I didn’t think much of it at first, but they’re getting darker and just won’t fade. I’m really worried about how to remove dark patches from skin because they’re affecting my self-esteem, ya know? I tried a couple of creams but they didn’t do much. I even went to a dermatologist, and they recommended some exfoliating stuff, but honestly, I feel like it just irritated my skin more than anything. I’m also not sure if it’s related to sun exposure or something else—is it because I forget sunscreen sometimes? It’s just frustrating when friends ask about it or when I try to cover it with makeup and it just looks worse. I’ve heard about home remedies too; some say lemon juice works, but then again, I've read it can make skin sensitive. Like, should I keep trying with the treatments or just let my skin breathe? Can anyone share what they did or what really helps? I really need tips on how to remove dark patches from skin that are safe and effective, cause I’m at my wits end with this!

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Doctors' responses

Dark patches on the skin, often referred to as hyperpigmentation, can result from various factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, or inflammation. Given that you’ve mentioned exposure to the sun and occasional sunscreen forgetfulness, it’s possible that UV exposure is a contributing factor. Consistent use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is crucial, even on cloudy days, because it helps prevent existing patches from darkening further. As for treatment, while over-the-counter creams didn’t work for you, consider focusing on products that contain ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, or vitamin C, which can help reduce pigmentation by interfering with melanin production. It’s important to use these consistently and with patience, as improvements can take several weeks. Regarding the exfoliation that seemed to irritate your skin, it might be wise to avoid mechanical exfoliants and instead try gentle chemical options like glycolic acid or lactic acid at a lower strength, applied once or twice a week. They help in removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. Be cautious with home remedies like lemon juice, as you’ve noted, they can increase irritation or make skin more sun-sensitive. Instead, try aloe vera or green tea extracts known for soothing properties. During this time, also ensure any makeup used is non-comedogenic to avoid further irritation. If these suggestions don’t lead to improvement, revisiting your dermatologist might be necessary. They could assess whether procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy, under professional supervision, would be a more effective option given your skin’s response to previous treatments.

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