Three Ways to Get Rid of Dark Spots on Dark Skin

Skincare is not a one size fits all! What works for some of us, won't work for others. That's why it's important to know what separates darker skin from those with fairer complexions.

While it's very important to understand what skin type you have, (normal, oily, dry, combination, sensitive, etc.), it is also important to do preventative care that applies to your skin tone.

We all know that lighter skin tones are more prone to sun damage, so they have to take extra precautions. But what type of precautions do darker-skin beauties we have to take with our skin and why?

Let's start with the "Why"

Melanin-rich skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area on the skin due to the overproduction of melanin. It can be caused by trauma, injury, hormones, sun damage, and/or medication. Sometimes, it's harder to prevent it if it is caused by hormonal imbalances or medical conditions such as PCOS, but it's not impossible!

*Consult with your doctor about the affects medicine is having on your skin, we are not doctors mkay!?

Now, let's get into the "How"

1. Sunscreen

In order to prevent hyperpigmentation on our skin, we have to do preventative care.

Preventative care should be included in our daily skincare routines. Before stepping outside, we need to be putting on sunscreen! Whether it's 90 degrees outside or 50 degrees out, those sun rays are affecting our skin. We need to be using a sunscreen with at least a SPF of 30. (PRO TIP: if your sunscreen is leaving a white cast, mix it with your daily moisturizer). This should be the last step in your skincare routine. Before doing this you would want to double cleanse, exfoliate, apply masks, apply serums, tone, and moisturize. In that order!

2. Exfoliating

Exfoliating is a great way to prevent hyperpigmentation.

There are three types of exfoliants: physical, chemical, and mechanical. Physical exfoliants are great for daily use. These include your gentle scrubs and soaps.

Chemical exfoliants are also useful and speed up the healing process. They're not usually used everyday, usage depends on the products used. These exfoliants include chemically balanced products that are made from enzymes and acid-based ingredients to remove dead skin. This includes AHAs and BHAs.

Mechanical exfoliants are devices and objects that also remove dead skin. This includes microdermabrasion, cleansing brushes, body brushes, exfoliating gloves, etc. These items will aid in removing these dead skin cells and breaking up pigmented cells to prevent excess melanin.

3. Masks and serums

Masks and serums are also a good way of preventing hyperpigmentation.

Looking for ingredients like Vitamin C, Kojic acid, Niacinamide, Lactic acid, Retinoids, and Salicylic acid will aid in fading dark spots and providing preventative care. Implementing exfoliating, masks, serums, and sunscreen in your daily routine will keep your skin clear and scar-free.

It's best to stay consistent with your skincare routine in order to see long term results. And it's equally important to maintain a balanced diet, drink water, and ensure you're getting all of your daily vitamins for internal care.

Melanin-rich skin is such a beautiful thing, so let's make sure to take care of it! We may have some built in sun-resistance, but we gotta put in some work too! THIS is what's going to help with hyperpigmentation prevention.

Interested in learning more about specific black-owned skincare products that do just the trick? Know of a couple of indie black-owned skincare products that the beauts should know about?

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