
How to Effectively Reduce Dark Spots
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How to Effectively Reduce Dark Spots
To treat and reduce their appearance, Dr. Pompa recommends a two-pronged approach. Pair a powerful skin-brightening serum with a foundation with SPF
“Treating dark spots can seem like a vicious cycle. As soon as one fades, another pops up,” says board-certified Miami-based dermatologist and Clinique Derm Pro Dr. Adriane Pompa. Sometimes, one that faded is suddenly more prominent, seemingly out of nowhere. If left unaddressed, pronounced hyperpigmentation can stick around for months, even years. But with the right skincare routine and a few simple lifestyle changes, you can successfully reduce the appearance of dark spots on your own. Here's everything you need to know.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin (the pigment that gives skin color) is overproduced, creating dark spots that vary in size, color, and quantity. When a skin cell is attacked by an aggressor, it automatically starts to produce an excessive amount of melanin as a means of self-defense, which may lead to the emergence of dark spots. The most common aggressors are hard to avoid: sun exposure and free radical damage from pollution, which cause age spots; hormone fluctuations from birth control or pregnancy, which cause melasma; and skin trauma from acne breakouts (or picking them) as well as cuts, scrapes, and rashes, all of which can lead to post-inflammatory scars.
Break the dark spot cycle.
“In the office, I use a variety of treatments like chemical peels and lasers, but there’s a clinically proven way to break the dark spot cycle at home,” says Dr. Pompa.