How to Treat Dark Spots on Skin – Raven, Licensed Esthetician
Types of Dark Spots (Hyperpigmentation):
Acne-related dark spots – Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Hormonal dark spots – From pregnancy, PCOS, or hormonal changes (melasma).
Sun damage dark spots – Caused by UVA/UVB exposure.
1. Treating Dark Spots from Acne
Cause: Trauma to skin from popping pimples → overproduction of melanin.
Treatment Steps:
Clear acne first:
Use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cleansers.
Examples: Skin Script Raspberry or Charcoal cleansers; Over-the-counter: Panoxil.
Target post-acne dark spots:
Use serums like:
SkinScript Mandelic Acid Serum (controls acne & lightens spots)
Good Molecules Discoloration Serum (for acne spots & melasma)
Professional treatments:
Microdermabrasion: Gentle exfoliation → better product absorption.
Chemical peels: Stronger exfoliation → increases cell turnover.
Micro-needling: Helps deeper hyperpigmentation.
Aftercare:
Hydrate skin
Wear sunscreen daily
2. Treating Dark Spots from Hormonal Changes
Cause: Pregnancy, PCOS, or hormonal fluctuations.
Treatment Steps:
Use gentle, gel-based cleansers for sensitive skin.
Incorporate exfoliants & treatments:
Retinoids
Azelaic acid
Micro-needling
Ingredients to look for: Niacinamide, kojic acid
Micro-needling accelerates healing → helps with melasma.
3. Preventing & Treating Sun Damage
Cause: UVA rays (aging, hyperpigmentation), UVB rays (burning, skin damage, cancer risk).
Tips:
Sunscreen is essential: blocks UVA & UVB
Reapply multiple times/day
Even indoors, sunlight can penetrate clothing → sunscreen still needed
Key Takeaways
Identify the cause of dark spots before treatment.
Use products specific to your skin type & condition.
Combine at-home care with professional treatments.
Consistency is critical: proper aftercare prevents worsening or recurrence.
Skipping sunscreen or aftercare can erase results or worsen skin damage
