How To Treat Dark Spots

Ok. So, now you’re officially over it. You’ve bought just about every product from the drugstore that claims it can lighten your hyperpigmentation and still no improvement! What’s a brown or black girl to do?

Well, your frustration is probably due to the low percentage of 2% hydroquinone (HQ) in most over-the-counter products doesn’t always show significant changes in deeper skin tones. However, when “hydroquinones [are used] in stronger strengths varying between 4- 10% for a specified period of time,” changes are much more noticeable, says New York-based, board certified dermatologist Dr. Elena Jones. And there just so happen to be skin lightening products with higher HQ percentages available for purchase without a prescription, but we’ll save that secret for later.

As Dr. Jones explains, because “our skin tends to produce more inflammatory cells which produce more persistent and difficult-to-treat hyperpigmentation,” you should consider other types of treatments that deliver good results when done under the supervision of a doctor. Treatments like…

Glycolic Peels: Also treats acne. This peel is an alpha hydroxy acid and derived from sugar cane. It keeps pores unblocked and stimulates cell renewal.

Microdermabrasion: This is a mechanical exfoliation treatment that sprays microcrystals onto the skin through a stainless steel pressurized wand.

Retin A: This is a topical Vitamin A which is primarily used to treat sun-damaged skin, but also speeds up the growth of new skin cells, thereby reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Non-ablative Fraxel Laser: a non-invasive laser-resurfacing therapy treatment of acne scars.

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