The Best Way to Lighten Dark Spots on Skin

The Best Way to Lighten Dark Spots on Skin
Photo Credit freckles. image by Anna Chelnokova from Fotolia.com

Dark spots on the skin are most likely a result of too much sun exposure. When skin receives an abundance of ultraviolet radiation, it reacts by overproducing the pigment melanin, which causes the dark spotting. While the spots are usually harmless, they can be unsightly. The fastest and most successful way of fading these spots is by using a pair of creams prescribed by your dermatologist.

Step 1

Visit your dermatologist and have him check your skin to ensure that none of the spots are potentially cancerous. Point out spots to him that have grown in size or changed shape.

Step 2

Ask for a prescription for a hydroquinone cream and Tretinoin. The hydroquinone is a skin bleaching agent while the Tretinoin encourages cell turnover, which will expedite the fading of your spots.

Step 3

Wash and dry your skin and wait 30 minutes to allow all of the moisture to completely evaporate from your skin.

Step 4

Apply the hydroquinone cream according to your doctor's instructions. Follow it with the Tretinoin as directed.

Step 5

Use both products regularly and consistently to see results in a few weeks.

Tips and Warnings

  • Use sunscreen daily to prevent further spots from forming on your skin.

Things You'll Need

  • Hydroquinone cream
  • Tretinoin

References

Article reviewed by Kirk Ericson Last updated on: Sep 2, 2010

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