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how to reduce melanin in skin
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #19967
57 days ago
144

how to reduce melanin in skin - #19967

Ishita

I am really concerned about this dark patch that’s appeared on my cheek. It's kinda embarrassing and lately I’ve been trying to figure out how to reduce melanin in skin naturally. It started about a month ago after spending a few days on the beach without sunscreen (big mistake, I know!). At first, I thought it would fade, but it just seems to be getting darker. I’ve tried a few over-the-counter creams that are supposed to lighten skin, but they don’t seem to do much. Someone I know mentioned there are ways how to reduce melanin in skin with ingredients like vitamin C or licorice extract, but I’m unsure how effective they are? I also read that some lasers can help, but I’m a bit scared of those. Do any of you have experience or suggestions on how to reduce melanin in skin without going broke or having to deal with painful procedures? Would natural remedies actually work or are they just a myth? I'm feeling kind of hopeless here, and just want my skin to look like it used to. Any advice would be super appreciated!

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Doctors' responses

You’re dealing with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or sunspots, and it’s quite common. The good news is there are several approaches you can consider to safely reduce melanin production in your skin. First, you absolutely need to start using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, as UV exposure can worsen pigmentation. Aim for SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors. Now, about reducing melanin: over-the-counter products containing ingredients like vitamin C, kojic acid, niacinamide, and licorice extract can be beneficial in lightening your skin. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce melanin formation and even out skin tone over time. You might try serums or creams with these ingredients and apply them once or twice daily to the affected area. Consistency is key, though; it might take a few weeks to see noticeable changes. Retinoids, which are vitamin A derivatives, can also be effective in speeding up cell turnover and fading dark patches, but they can sometimes irritate the skin, so start slowly and moisturize well. Regarding natural remedies, some may have mild effects, such as aloe vera gel, but they are generally less reliable than scientifically proven ingredients. If you’re considering professional treatment, laser therapy and chemical peels are options but consult with a dermatologist first to assess your situation and discuss any concerns. As for lasers, while they can be quite effective, they’re more invasive and do carry some risks. It’s best to weigh these carefully with expert guidance. If you don’t see improvement or if the pigmentation changes shape or size, it’s important to seek a dermatological opinion to rule out any underlying issues. Remember, avoiding further sun damage is critical to prevent new spots from forming.

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