No matter age, gender, or skin type, we all desire to achieve healthy and flawless skin without having to conceal any imperfections. Most every skincare regimen is focused on improving the tone, texture, and appearance of the skin to give it a smooth and radiant appearance. Pesky dark spots are probably the most dreaded and annoying skin care concern for most people, and for the right reasons. Treating and preventing dark spots or hyperpigmentation can be such a laborious task if you don’t choose the right products. It’s crucial to understand the cause of your dark spots or why they're occurring to find the appropriate treatment and products. Today, we’ll focus on removing them using natural skin care products. So, here's exactly how that can be done!
What Causes Dark Spots?
In order to effectively fade and remove hyperpigmentation or dark spots, you must first have proper knowledge why it is occurring, the extent of the damage, how to treat it, and how to prevent them from reoccurring. Dark spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation are basically caused by the over-production of melanocytes or melanin-producing cells in the body. Melanin that is released in excessive amounts can be triggered for a myriad of reasons. Here are the most common contributors to the increased production of melanocytes:
- Hormonal Imbalance
- Sun damage
- Age
- Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
- Inflammation
Treatment of Dark Spots with Natural Skin Care Products
**actual Tonique customer**
Luckily, there are many brands dedicated to providing skin care products with natural ingredients to help treat dark spots. Look for natural skin care products comprising of any of the following ingredients to get rid of any discoloration and reveal glowing and even complexion underneath.
Vitamin C
This potent, naturally occurring vitamin not only works as an excellent antioxidant but has extraordinary skin lightening properties. Vitamin C works by reducing the production of excess melanin, which is the pigment responsible for dark spots. Its protective abilities shield against oxidative damage and prevent further hyperpigmentation. In addition, it boosts collagen production, helping to reduce discoloration and damage.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is also one of the widely used treatments for lightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation. This natural ingredient is procured from fermented rice or mushrooms. It is often used in combination with vitamin e such as in a soap or cleanser to avoid drying of the skin and to reap the maximum benefit out of it. It works by targeting the pigment cells and inhibits their activity. The results may take a few months, so patience is the key to getting clear skin while using topical kojic acid.
Alpha-Arbutin
It has been a very commonly used gold standard treatment for reducing skin discoloration and dark spots for decades. The mechanism of action by alpha arbutin is similar to that of vitamin C. It also inhibits the activity of tyrosinase and reduces the synthesis of melanin. The lower level of melanin leads to a reduction in the appearance of dark spots. The concentration of alpha arbutin in over-the-counter formulas is 2% or less, and it’s considered safer as compared to a much higher concentration in a more effective and concentrated skin lightening cream, which can only be formulated by a professional. Alpha arbutin is fast-acting treatment and unlike others, when combined with other natural actives, its results can be noticed in as little as two or three weeks. However if used on its own and in more severe cases, it might take up to two to three months to see a visible difference so, make sure it is combined with other natural skin lightening actives for best results.
Vitamin E
**actual Tonique customer**
It’s almost inevitable to mention vitamin e when talking about hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Vitamin E has a gamut of benefits from antioxidant effects to improved collagen production. It works wonders to stabilize collagen production and repair damaged cells. Consequently, reducing the discoloration caused by any kind of damage to the skin cells. Furthermore, it protects the skin from free radicals, sun damage, and pollutants that can lead to more dark spots. It’s highly suitable for all skin types, even if you’re suffering from an inflammatory skin condition, like eczema and psoriasis.
Retinol
This is known as one of the most favorite skin care ingredients of dermatologists and skin care experts. It doesn’t only lighten dark spots and reduces the signs of aging, but also prevents and treats acne breakouts. So, if the reason behind your dark spots is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or you have acne-prone skin, retinol is your best bet. It’s safe for those with even sensitive, flaky, or inflamed skin.