How to take care of dark spots at home
Dark spots can form for many reasons and once they are on your face, chest and hands it can take time and concerted efforts to reduce their appearance. Dark spots can appear in a variety of shapes and colors ranging from a small freckle to larger-shaped melasma. If you want to address your dark spots at home, we’re walking you through all of the different types of dark spots that can form on your skin and how you can help minimize them.
Why Do Dark Spots Form?
In your skin there is a substance called melanocyte which produces melanin. If melanocyte becomes overstimulated, it can produce too much melanin.
The sun is the number one cause of hyperpigmentation. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to excess melanin production which results in brown spots forming on your face, hands, and even neck. The easiest way to avoid dark spots in the first place is by being diligent about wearing SPF and limiting sun exposure. Always apply SPF 15 or higher even on a cloudy day. Also accessorize with hats and sunglasses to prevent excessive sun exposure.
What Types Of Hyperpigmentation Exist?
Hyperpigmention can be categorized into several groups:
Lentigo/Lentigenes: This is one freckle versus multiple freckles.
Solar Lentigenes: These are freckles or can also be referred to as age or liver spots and caused by sun exposure.
Melasma: This type of hyperpigmentation is also known as “pregnancy mask” and is a result of hormone fluctuations during pregnancy or in conjunction with birth control. Melasma appear as dark splotches on the face except for the eye area.
3 Ways To Take Care Of Dark Spots
1. Exfoliate
Exfoliation is a great way to reduce the appearance of dark spots because it encourages surface skin cell renewal and sloughs away old skin cells. Exfoliate at least once a week to help skin.
2. Serums And Dark Spot Correctors
After you’ve exfoliated you can supercharge your dark spot-fighting efforts with serums and dark spots correctors. These products help reduce years of sun damage over time. Apply a serum with antioxidants to smooth and brighten your complexion. We especially like products with Vitamin C. Try Garnier SkinActive’s Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector. It contains a unique complex of Vitamin C and E, Pine Bark Essence, and gentle exfoliating Lipo-Hydroxyl Acid (LHA). When used as directed it promotes surface cell turnover to reveal more radiant, younger-looking skin.
3. Eat Antioxdidants
We told you about the great effect antioxidants can have on your skin when applied topically, but it’s also super important to incorporate them in your diet too. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, berries and foods with high Omega-3 content should be some of your favorite kinds of food to maintain your overall health. A healthy body is more likely to have healthy skin.