Dark skin spots can result from acne scarring or sun exposure, and they can get worse as you age. Dermatologist Dr. Hilary L. Reich says that sunspots on your face and chest can be one of the first signs of aging skin. Fight back against these spots by being diligent about your daily skin care routine and using products designed to lighten dark marks. Keep your skin clean, moisturized and protected from further sun damage, and help your dark spots become a thing of the past.
Step 1
Use a creamy cleanser or face wash of your choosing to clean your skin in the morning. Pat dry, and then smooth an antioxidant cream on your face, neck and any areas where you have brown spots. "Allure" states that this product will help even out your complexion as well as protect your skin from the damage of UV rays and free radicals, which can make your dark skin spots look worse. Slather the cream or serum onto your skin, and let it absorb before moving on.
Step 2
Put on a moisturizing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. The combination of an antioxidant serum and a sunscreen provides even greater sun protection than just using sunscreen alone, says "Elle." Choose a broad-spectrum product that will keep your skin safe from both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it all over your body, and use more throughout the day as needed.
Step 3
Wash your face at the end of the day, and smooth on an exfoliating scrub. This will speed up cell renewal and help your dark skin spots to fade more quickly. Aesthetician Kate Somerville advises choosing an exfoliator that contains fruit enzymes as opposed to crush nuts or seeds, as these can damage your skin's surface. Massage the product you choose over wet skin, concentrating particularly on the places where you have brown spots, and then rinse it all off and pat dry.
Step 4
Apply a dark spot fading cream that contains 2 percent hydroquinone, a skin-lightening ingredient. "Allure" states that when you apply this product daily, your dark spots will begin to fade in about three months. Dot the cream directly onto your spots using the tips of your fingers and blend it in. Allow it to dry for a few minutes.
Step 5
Smooth on a moisturizer with an emollient ingredient like glycerin. "Elle" states that this will help keep your skin hydrated, making it better able to repair itself, as well as improve the overall tone and texture of your complexion. Avoid oil-based products if you have greasy or acne prone skin, and look for one that promises not to clog pores. Apply the moisturizer to your face and neck before bed.
Things You'll Need
- Creamy cleanser
- Antioxidant cream or serum
- Sunscreen
- Exfoliating scrub
- Hydroquinone cream
- Moisturizer with glycerin
Member Comments