This blog spot on dark spots is filled with questions about hyperpigmentation as well as their answers.
Questions About Hyperpigmentation: Are Dark Spots Permanent?
Dark spots can be permanent or temporary depending on their cause. All dark spots or hyperpigmentation develop when the skin produces too much pigment known as melanin.
If the hyperpigmentation develops in the upper layer of the skin known as the epidermis, it has a brown-black appearance and it tends to result in temporary dark spots that can take months to years to fade if not treated. These can be caused by skin conditions like acne.
If the hyperpigmentation develops in the deeper layer of the skin known as the dermis, it has a blue-gray appearance and it tends to result in permanent dark spots. This can be caused by medications like minocycline.
At Almasi Skincare we offer dark spot treatment procedures like microdermabrasion and microneedling that clear dark spots in days to weeks.
Are Dark Spots And Acne Scars The Same?
Darks spots and acne scars are not the same.
Acne dark spots are also known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and they develop due to deposition of excessive melanin. Acne dark spots change the skin tone of the skin but they do not change the skin’s texture.
Hypertrophic acne scars develop when the body produces too much collagen when acne is healing. Atrophic acne scars form when the body produces too little collagen when acne is healing.
Acne scars do not change the skin tone but they change the skin texture since the hypertrophic scars have swellings on the skin while the atrophic scars have depressions on the skin.
Questions About Hyperpigmentation: Can Dark Spots Be Removed?
Dark spots can be removed by skincare products that contain ingredients like the following:
*Alpha arbutin e.g. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid +Alpha Arbutin
*Azelaic acid
*Kojic acid
*Mandelic acid
*Retinols and Retinoids e.g. Differin Gel
*Vitamin C e.g. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid +Alpha Arbutin
These products can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721 963 156 for countrywide delivery.
Removing dark spots with skincare products takes months to years.
Removing dark spots with dermatological procedures is faster as it takes days to weeks.
At Almasi Skincare we offer dermatological procedures like microdermabrasion and microneedling for faster removal of dark spots from the face, back, legs and other parts of the body. To book an appointment with our Doctor call 0721 963 156.
What Removes Dark Spots Permanently?
Dark spots are removed permanently if their treatment also deals with the cause of the dark spots. For example if the dark spots are caused by acne, their treatment should also include acne treatment.
It is important to note that azelaic acid is good for dark spots caused by acne because it reduces the production of abnormal pigmentation and treats acne breakouts.
Retinoids also treat hyperpigmentation and acne. A good example is Differin which can be purchased from our Almasi Skincare Shop.
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What Causes Dark Spots On The Face?
Dark spots on the face are caused by the following:
*Inflammation – skin conditions like acne cause inflammation which stimulates pigment cells to produce a lot of melanin which causes dark spots on the face.
*Sun exposure – skin that has been exposed to the sun for many years has pigment cells that produce a lot of melanin.
*Hormones – during pregnancy the combination of hormones and sun exposure can cause conditions like melasma to develop.
*Medications – minocycline, hydroxychloroquine and amiodarone are medications which can cause dark spots on the skin.
*Medical conditions – Addison’s disease can cause dark spots on the face.
Questions About Hyperpigmentation: What Causes Dark Spots On The Legs?
Dark spots on the legs are caused by the following:
*Injuries like cuts
*Sun exposure
*Diabetes
*Dermatitis or eczema
*Melanoma
*Addison’s disease
How Can I Prevent Dark Spots?
Wearing sunscreen every day is the best thing you can do to prevent dark posts .This is because exposure to UV radiation from the sun increases melanin production by the skin. Dark spots even get darker when exposed to the sun.
We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50. A good example is La Roche Posay Invisible Fluid SPF 50 Sunscreen. It can be purchased from our Almasi Skincare Shop.
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Which Soap Is Best For Dark Spots?
The best soap for dark spots in Kenya is Hyglow Soap because it contains 3 ingredients that reduce melanin production – namely glutathione, vitamin C and kojic acid. It also contains papaya extract which also reduces hyperpigmentation and has a skin brightening effect.
Hyglow Soap can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721 963 156 for countrywide delivery.
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Which Is The Best Medicine For Dark Spots?
One of the best medicines for dark spots in Kenya is Differin Gel. It contains 0.1% adapalene which is a retinoid that exfoliates the skin and increases the rate at which dark spots fade. Differin Gel was previously only available by prescription but it can now be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop.
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Which Is The Best Dark Spot Corrector?
Neutrogena Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector is the best dark spot remover because it contains a combination of retinol and Vitamin C. This is a potent combination because both these ingredients treat hyperpigmentation. Retinol exfoliates the skin and increases the rate at which dark spots fade while Vitamin C reduces melanin production. The price of this Neutrogena dark spot corrector in Kenya is Ksh 4000.
Garnier Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector is the next best dark spot remover because it contains vitamin C which reduces the production of melanin. It is however the best dark spot remover cream for females who are pregnant or breastfeeding since vitamin C can be used during pregnancy and lactation. The price of this Garnier dark spot remover in Kenya is Ksh 1500. It is important to note that this is one of the best Garnier products for dark spots.
These dark spot correctors can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721 963 156 for countrywide delivery.
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What Is The Best Dark Spots Treatment?
The best dark spots treatment in Kenya removes dark spots fast and it is a combination of the following:
*Dermatological procedures that treat hyperpigmentation like microdermabrasion and microneedling
*Skincare products that treat hyperpigmentation like Neutrogena Dark Spot Corrector.
At Almasi Skincare we offer both the dermatological procedures and effective skincare products. To book an appointment with our Doctor call 0721 963 156.
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What Is A Dark Spots Treatment Skincare Routine?
A simple dark spots treatment skincare routine uses the following skincare products:
*Cleanser in the morning and evening e.g. Cerave Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser
*Vitamin C serum in the morning e.g. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid
*Moisturizer in the morning e.g. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors
*Sunscreen in the morning e.g. La Roche Posay Invisible Fluid SPF 50 Sunscreen
*Retinol at night e.g. Cerave Resurfacing Retinol
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These dark spot treatment routine skincare products can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721 963 156 for countrywide delivery.
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What Are The Best Foods For Dark Spot Treatment?
The following are foods that are beneficial for dark spot treatment:
*Zinc-Rich Foods
Foods that are rich in zinc like oysters, shrimp, beef, eggs, yogurt, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils, dark chocolate, spinach, kale, peanuts, cashews, kidney beans and flax seeds are important for preventing and treating dark spots because zinc deficiency has been associated with excess melanin production. Zinc is also important for healing of the skin and protection form UV damage.
*B12-Rich Foods
Foods that are rich in vitamin B12 like beef, salmon, eggs, yogurt are important for preventing and treating dark spots because B12 deficiency has been linked to increased melanin production.
*Folic Acid-Rich Foods
Foods that are rich in folic acid like spinach, kale, broccoli, chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, oranges, eggs, chicken, beef liver, peanuts and cashews are important for preventing and treating dark spots because folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Eggs
Eggs contains zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production and hyperpigmentation. Eggs also contains vitamin B12 and B12 deficiency increases melanin production which results in dark spots. Eggs also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Beef
Beef contains zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production and hyperpigmentation. Beef also contains vitamin B12 and B12 deficiency increases melanin production which results in dark spots.
*Yogurt
Yogurt contains zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production. Yogurt also contains vitamin B12 and B12 deficiency increases melanin production which results in dark spots.
*Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain carotenoids and other phytochemicals which prevent dark spots by fighting free radical activity. Sweet potatoes contain zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production and hyperpigmentation. Sweet potatoes also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation. Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin C which prevents the enzyme tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by sun exposure.
*Tomatoes
Tomatoes contains carotenoids that reduce dark spots by combatting oxidative stress. Tomatoes contain vitamin C which prevents the enzyme tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by sun exposure. Tomatoes also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Spinach and Kale
Spinach and kale contain carotenoids that reduce dark spots by combatting oxidative stress. Spinach and kale also contain zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production. Spinach and kale contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Broccoli
Broccoli contains carotenoids that reduce dark spots by combatting oxidative stress. Broccoli also contains vitamin C which prevents the enzyme tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by sun exposure. Broccoli also contains folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Pomegranates
Pomegranates are some of the top zinc-rich fruits and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production. Pomegranates also contain vitamin C which prevents the enzyme tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by sun exposure. Pomegranates also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Oranges
Oranges contain vitamin C which is a potent antioxidant that reduces dark spots by preventing the melanin producing enzyme known as tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by UV radiation from the sun. Oranges contains folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Peanuts and Cashews
Peanuts and cashews contains zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production and hyperpigmentation. Peanuts and cashews also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Chickpeas and Lentils
Chickpeas and lentils contains zinc and zinc deficiency has been linked to excess melanin production and hyperpigmentation. Chickpeas and lentils also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation.
*Bell Peppers
Bell peppers contains carotenoids that reduce dark spots by combatting oxidative stress. Bell peppers also contain vitamin C which prevents the enzyme tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by sun exposure.
*Pawpaws
Pawpaws contain carotenoids, enzymes and other phytochemicals which help reduce excessive skin pigmentation. Pawpaws also contain folic acid and folic acid deficiency has been linked to hyperpigmentation. Pawpaws also contain vitamin C which prevents the enzyme tyrosinase from producing excess melanin when the skin is damaged by sun exposure.
*Salmon
Salmon and other fatty fish like tuna and mackerel contain omega 3 fatty acids which reduce the melanin production caused by sun exposure. This helps reduce sun-induced dark spots. Salmon also contains vitamin B12 and B12 deficiency increases melanin production which results in dark spots.
What Are The Worst Foods For Dark Spot Treatment?
The worst foods for dark spot treatment are high glycemia index foods (GI) which cause a rapid rise of blood sugar which leads to a process known as glycation. Studies have shown that glycation alters the proteins in the skin and this results in wrinkles and pigmentation.
Examples of high GI foods include those made from white flour like cakes, cookies, muffins and pasta as well as artificial fruit juices and sodas.
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What Is The Fastest Way To Fade Dark Spots?
The fastest way to fade dark spots involves using a procedure that removes layers of discolored skin cells. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels remove the layers of skin cells with the hyperpigmentation.
At Almasi Skincare we offer Microdermabrasion which fades dark spots fast with very good results.
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Why Are The Dark Spot Not Fading?
Dark spots do not fade because of the following reasons:
*Not using sunscreen
Strict sun protection is very important for treating hyperpigmentation since sun exposure makes the dak spots darker. The sunscreen should be a broadspectrum sunscreen and have a SPF of atleast 30 and ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Iron oxide is another important ingredients as it blocks out visible light.
*Not using the correct products
Skincare products that treat dark spots should have ingredients like azelaic acid, alpha arbutin, kojic acid, mandelic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C or ascorbic acid and retinol.
*Not using the correct products for long enough
You should give the skincare products atleast 6 weeks to 8 weeks before you say they are not working. Take monthly pictures to record your skin’s progress and help you remain patient.
*Not dealing with the cause
If the dark spots are caused by acne, the acne must be treated.
*Scrubbing the dark spots to fade them
Scrubbing the dark spots to remove them causes skin irritation which can worsen the hyperpigmentation. Therefore avoid using physical exfoliations When using chemical exfoliants use them not more than 3 times a week.
Can I Use Colgate To Remove Dark Spots?
No, you should not use Colgate to remove dark spots.
This is because even though Colgate can dry up lesions, it also contains ingredients that can cause redness, irritation and inflammation in the skin. It is therefore best to use products with ingredients that treat dark spots without irritating the skin.
In addition, the answer to the question, “Which toothpaste is best for dark spots?” is no toothpaste should be used on the skin since it is formulated to be used inside the mouth. Using toothpaste on the skin can therefore cause redness and inflammation on the skin.
It is important to note that toothpastes labelled a “Whitening Toothpaste” has been formulated to whiten teeth and not to whiten dark spots on the skin. Therefore no toothpaste is good for removing dark spots on the skin.
Can I Use Vaseline To Clear Dark Spots?
No, you should not use Vaseline to clear dark spots.
This is because even though Vaseline can lock moisture in the skin, it does not contain ingredient that fade dark pots. In addition, it can trigger breakouts because it is comedogenic and this can lead to more dark spots in people with acne-prone skin.
How Do I Fade Stubborn Dark Spots?
To fade stubborn dark spots you have to combine using skincare products with dermatological producers.
Skincare products to fade stubborn dark spots should contain ingredients like azelaic acid, kojic acid, mandelic acid, tranexamic acid, vitamin C and retinol.
Dermatological procedures that fade stubborn dark spots include microdermabrasion and microneedling. We offer these procedures at Almasi Skincare. Call 0721 963 156 to book your appointment today.
What Products Treat Both Acne and Dark Spots?
Products that treat both acne and dark spots include the following:
*Azelaic acid e.g. The Ordinary 10% Azelaic Acid
*Retinol e.g. Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum which can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721 963 156 for countrywide delivery.
Additional Questions
What Causes Dark Spots Around The Eyes?
Dark spots around the eyes are caused by aging, allergies, fatigue, genetics, insomnia and stress.
What Causes Dark Spots After Pimples?
Dark spots after pimples are caused by inflammation which makes the melanocytes or pigment producing cells produce more melanin. This is known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. When the dark spots develop after acne pimples, they are know as post acne hyperpigmentation.
What Causes Dark Spots All Over The Body?
Dark spots all over the body are caused by birthmarks, pigmentation disorders, eczema, infections, sun exposure, Addison’s disease, cancers and medications.
What Causes Dark Spots Around The Neck?
Dark spots around the neck can be caused by acanthosis nigricans, sun exposure, eczema and infections.
Share your questions about hyperpigmentation in the comments section.