If you struggle with acne, dealing with dark spots is not unfamiliar territory. In fact, dark spots can also be caused by sun damage and hormonal changes. In medical terms, these darker patches are referred to as hyperpigmentation.
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, hyperpigmentation forms when your skin produces an excess of melanin, which is your natural skin pigment. Although dark spots are generally painless, eliminating them is key to keeping your complexion even. Below, we list five of the best ingredients that can help you achieve that goal:
1. Niacinamide
Beyond regulating your oil production, niacinamide also lightens dark spots and protects you from ultraviolet sun damage. Also known as Vitamin B3, this powerhouse ingredient can treat hyperpigmentation without causing irritation. Because of this, niacinamide works pretty well with other actives, so you don't have to completely change your current routine just to incorporate it into your skincare.
Just Breathe Clarifying Serum, P1550, VERSED, Beautymnl
2. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
When it comes to keeping your skin plump and even, using chemical exfoliants is a no-brainer. AHAs work to fade dark spots by promoting new skin cell generation and shedding off the dead cells on your skin's surface. Some examples of AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and mandelic acid, all of which are known for brightening hyperpigmentation and boosting collagen production.
Clear Skin 8% AHA Essence, P800, ISNTREE, gobloomandglow.com
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an old school favorite in the skincare community for a good reason. As a powerful antioxidant, it can treat forms of discoloration by hindering excess production of melanin and further protecting your skin from free radicals. It also works as an anti-inflammatory ingredient that reduces overall redness and hastens wound healing.
15% Vitamin C and EGF, P1075, THE INKEY LIST, Lazada
4. Azelaic Acid
If your skin is too sensitive for AHAs, azelaic acid is a derm-approved alternative for fading hyperpigmentation. This underrated ingredient can lighten dark spots and soothe acne through promoting skin cell turnover and impeding abnormal melanin production. A bonus fun fact: Azelaic Acid is naturally derived from wheat, rye, and barley.
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, P699, THE ORDINARY, Lazada
5. Snail Mucin
A classic in K-beauty skincare, this ingredient is famous for protecting the skin barrier, as well as improving its texture and tone. Packed with hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid, snail mucin can minimize the appearance of acne scars and dark marks to help your skin appear smooth, hydrated, and dewy.
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, P980, COSRX, Lazada
Bonus: Sunscreen
Being exposed to the sun without sunscreen prompts your skin cells to produce melanin for protection, which can then cause hyperpigmentation in the long-run. No matter what the cause of your dark spots are, applying the right amount of SPF every day will come a long way in preventing further sun damage. Using it may seem like a tedious chore at first, but trust us—the results are totally worth it.
SunExpert Whitening Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++, P375, BELO, Shopee
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