If you tan easily or have a darker complexion, you may develop pigmented acne dots or spots on your skin as your acne clears. These pigmented spots, which come in a rainbow of colors ranging from tan to brown and from pink to purple, aren't scars and they eventually fade, but the fading process can take months or even a couple of years. If you want to get rid of these dark spots sooner, you can try treatments aimed at encouraging them to fade.
Cause
It's not clear why some people develop pigmented acne spots after their blemishes heal while others do not. But cosmetic dermatologists at DermaNetwork note that existing pigmentation in the skin plays a role, making those with more of the skin pigment melanin more likely to get these spots. As an acne lesion heals, the inflammation concentrates melanin where the lesion used to be, creating a pigmented spot. Some people wind up with multiple pigmented acne spots, making their skin look like it has dark freckles on it.
Non-Prescription Options
It's possible to use over-the-counter products to reduce the skin discoloration associated with pigmented acne spots, although the American Academy of Dermatology warns that over-the-counter products likely will work well only on very mild discoloration. In looking for a product, choose one that includes vitamin C, retinol or glycolic acid, since these ingredients are most effective in treating skin discoloration. You also can try over-the-counter products containing 2 percent hydroquinone, a bleaching cream, but be sure to use hydroquinone according to the instructions because it can bleach non-pigmented skin, too.
Prescriptions
If you have multiple pigmented acne spots or your spots are especially dark in color, you may need to see a dermatologist for help in fading them. According to the AAD, your dermatologist might prescribe stronger hydroquinone cream, which you should use exactly as directed to avoid bleaching your skin too much. Creams and gels containing the active ingredient tretinoin also can help reduce the appearance of these spots. Tretinoin, the active ingredient in prescription acne medications Avita, Renova and Retin-A, helps your skin to shed old cells and grow new ones, clearing these spots faster.
Treatments
Some procedures that dermatologists offer also can help you get rid of your pigmented acne spots, according to the Mayo Clinic (ref#5). To treat this type of skin discoloration, you can opt for microdermabrasion, which uses crystals propelled by a handheld device that polishes your skin. You also can try laser treatments. Both of these procedures encourage your skin to renew itself faster, potentially shedding the discoloration more quickly in the process.
Warning
Regardless of which treatment you choose--or even if you choose to let your pigmented acne spots fade naturally, without treatment--you must stay out of the sun. Regardless of your skin tone, sun exposure can make your pigmented acne spots darker and take longer to fade. The AAD recommends wearing sunscreen daily and applying it 20 minutes before you venture outdoors.
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