Dermatologists on How to Get Rid of Dark Spots on Your Face - Vogue

Something else to note is that there are different types of dark spots—and they can all show up on the skin in various forms. "They can appear as sunspots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can result from acne, bug bites, and other skin rashes," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick.

The different types of dark spots—and why they occur

Sunspots or Solar Lentigines: According to Dr. Nosworthy, sunspots are typically developed as a result of prolonged UV exposure. "They are commonly found on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms," she adds.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This type of discoloration is a result of trauma or inflammation of the skin—and why derms caution us from popping our own pimples. However, PIH can also appear after an eczema or psoriasis flare-up. You will notice that once the skin has healed, any injured area may appear darker than the surrounding skin.

Melasma: "Melasma causes symmetrical, blotchy, brownish facial pigmentation, often appearing on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip," Dr. Nosworthy shares. "It is thought to be related to hormonal changes and sun exposure, and it is more common in women, particularly during pregnancy or when using hormonal contraceptives."

Age Spots or Liver Spots: Much like sunspots, age or liver spots are flat brown or black spots that appear as a result of long-term sun exposure.

Which skin types are most prone to developing dark spots? 

Anyone can develop dark spots. However, the type and their triggers may vary, explains Garshick. "Those with fair skin may be more susceptible to sun spots resulting from cumulative UV exposure that leads to dark spots," she shares. "Those with darker skin may be more likely to experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that appears as a dark spot as a result of increased melanin production."

Nosworthy adds those with hormonally-sensitive skin—for example, those who are pregnant or taking hormonal contraceptives—as well as people who are prone to eczema or psoriasis are also more prone to developing dark spots like melasma or PIH as a result of hormonal fluctuations, skin trauma, or inflammation.

Is it possible to get rid of dark spots entirely?

Yes—which is great news for anyone with uneven skin tone due to dark spots. However, in order to treat them effectively, it's important to develop a skin care routine that not only actively targets whichever form of discoloration you have, but also works to prevent it. "The most important thing is to remember sun protection," says Garshick.

For at-home treatment, Garshick recommends speaking with a dermatologist first to diagnose which type of dark spots you have—then a skin care regimen can be developed. In general, she's a fan of retinoids for hyperpigmentation, as they not only help to prevent acne in the first place, but also even out skin tone by stimulating cell turnover. "Other ingredients that may be helpful include azelaic acid, kojic acid, topical tranexamic acid, as well as chemical exfoliants and peels such as glycolic acid or lactic acid," she adds.

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