Popularly called dark spots, here we look at how to treat them aesthetically. They come in all shapes and sizes. They are quite harmless. They are not painful. Yet they are the bane of your existence. Yes, we are referring to dark spots. Call it hyperpigmentation, freckles or a side effect of atopic dermatitis or eczema, dark spots are likely to give you sleepless nights. It is important to understand the causes of dark spots and your skin type to know exactly how they can be treated. Because they can definitely be treated!

Aesthetic medicine has developed a number of therapies that work on dark spot reduction, which involves using devices and topical creams. In consultation with your dermatologist, you can come up with a proper treatment plan for dark spots and get rid of them with a combination of therapies. However, it is equally important to follow a homecare routine and maintenance schedule to avoid dark spots from coming back.

Behind it all!

Dr Madhuri Agarwal, Founder and Medical Director, Yavana Aesthetics Clinic, explains, “Dark spots occur when there is excessive accumulation of melanin on the face due to the various trigger factors. The skin produces excess melanin in response to inflammation, especially in a darker skin type. At times, the melanin can get deposited in uneven bunches over different areas of the face resembling islands of dark spots. The dark spots can be light to dark brown in colour.”

There are multiple factors at play in case of the causes of dark spots. An injury to the skin, acne, hormonal imbalance, certain diseases and photo-ageing as well as melasma can result in dark spots. The nature of dark spots differs according to your skin’s tone. So, Indian skin will see a different kind of pigmentation as compared to Caucasian skin. 

Dr Agarwal adds, “There can be various causes of dark spots such as ageing, sun exposure, acne, vitamin deficiency, hormonal changes and certain medications. Sun exposure is the common cause of dark spots followed by acne. Since dark spots can be due to various causes, it is recommended to consult a certified dermatologist to get the correct diagnosis and solution.”

Course of action

If getting rid of dark spots from your face is your aim, you need to start with a strict homecare regime. Your doctor will be able to suggest the right products to suit your skin’s needs and match your lifestyle. It is a no-brainer that sunscreen is non-negotiable when it comes to treating dark spots.

Dr Agarwal states, “The popular effective skincare is definitely a good broad-spectrum sunscreen applied daily even indoors. Skin-lightening agents such as azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, arbutin, niacinamide, soy and liquorice extracts have shown results as per recent studies. Vitamin C and E are good antioxidants that help curb sun damage. Chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid reduce dead skin buildup for better penetration of lightening agents.”

To counter the effects of patchiness and dark shadows on the skin, hydroquinone has shown some encouraging results by working on skin lightening. However, there are limitations to the concentration in which it is used. “Hydroquinone is effective against dark spots but has side effects, so not advisable to use without a dermatologist prescription,” cautions Dr Agarwal. 

She also advises against physical exfoliation as it can worsen inflammation and thereby the dark spots. “Stay away from fairness creams containing steroids and mercury as they deliver instant results but lead to extreme skin damage.”

Go the extra mile

There is a slew of in-clinic treatments that can help in treating dark spots, which include laser treatment, using intense pulse light laser; microdermabrasion, which promotes collagen growth; and chemical peels that will exfoliate gently, revealing new skin underneath. 

Dr Agarwal adds, “Certain dark spots may require oral medications and in-clinic treatments such as peels, lasers, etc with your dermatologist. Dark spots will take time and patience to resolve and may require multi-pronged care. There are no instant solutions.” 

As with every other skin issue, prevention is better than cure in case of dark spots. “Remember darker the skin, the faster the dark spots can develop and the longer it will take to resolve them. Prevent dark spots with a good skincare routine and sun protective measures,” concludes Dr Agarwal.

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician or doctor. The Company does not vouch for or endorse any of the above content, and disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the same.