How to Control Facial Dark Spots

Overview

Facial dark spots are typically the result of an overproduction of melanin, the dark pigment in skin. Sun exposure over the course of several years can cause this overproduction to occur and result in age spots. Age spots are brownish or black in color and lie flat on the surface of the skin. They are usually harmless, but you should see a dermatologist to examine the spots to rule out other causes, including skin cancer. You also have some opions for controlling your facial dark spots.

Step 1

Choose a skin bleaching cream. The bleaching cream should contain hydroquinone, glycolic acid or kojic acid as the active ingredient. The creams can be purchased over the counter at any retail pharmacy.

Step 2

Wash your face. Remove any makeup and skin care products prior to applying the lightening cream.

Step 3

Apply the skin bleaching cream to the dark facial spot in a thin layer. Keep the cream isolated to the dark spot to avoid discoloring the surrounding skin. Wash your hands after use. Wait until the cream has absorbed into the skin and the area is dry before applying any other products.

Step 4

Use the cream daily or as directed by the manufacturer. You may need to wait several weeks until you notice results because the ingredients in the cream needs to penetrate several layers of the epidermis.

Step 5

Make an appointment with a dermatologist if the skin bleaching cream did not work. You may need more aggressive treatment to get rid of the facial dark spots. Laser therapy can be used to destroy the extra pigment in the skin while cryotherapy gets rid of the pigment through the application of liquid nitrogen. Dermabrasion involves the use of a rotating brush to sand down the top layers of the skin to promote new growth. During a chemical peel, an acidic solution is applied to the face to fade the appearance of dark facial spots. Multiple treatments may be required for these procedures.