Your acne or wound disappears, but you are left with a dark spot. This spot is the result of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation - darkening of the skin due to an increase in melanin after cells have been injured. Several dark spots or regions on the skin, particularly on the face, can impact one's self esteem and confidence. As a result, some people turn to concealer and foundation as a fix. Using makeup to hide blemishes is your personal choice, but understand that it may not be your only option. Here are some methods for treating hyperpigmentation that may work for you:*Prevent/reduce acne via a good skin care regimen
*Use creams with skin lightening ingredients, such as soy, licorice, or vitamin C
*Use creams containing retinol, which is involved in skin renewal
*Try a homemade treatment using citric acid from lemons (see related story below)
*Wear sunscreen to prevent further darkening of hyperpigmented regions
*Exfoliate regularly
*Exfoliate with brown sugar
*Use microdermabrasion
*Get a chemical peel
*Act fast & speak with a dermatologist, especially for deeper pigmentation issues
*NOTE: try to avoid hydroquinone as a skin lightening agent; it may act as a carcinogen (see source below)
Many of these treatments take time to work before you notice visible improvement. Patience is key.
SOURCE & MORE READS:
HYDROQUINONE
CHEMICAL PEELS
MICRODERMABRASION
SOY, LICORICE & VITAMIN C
RETINOL
ACNE TREATMENT
Essence Magazine, MAY 2008 Issue
HYPERPIGMENTATION STUDY
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