How to Get Rid of Dark Spots from Acne

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You can end up with dark spots from mild, moderate, or severe acne, although they are relatively uncommon in cases of mild acne. Some over-the-counter products can help lighten dark spots. Generally, though, it's best to see a dermatologist to get a professional treatment.[1]
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American Academy of Dermatology
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Consider trying some approaches at home, then consult a professional if you can't clear up the condition yourself.

Steps

Getting a Professional Treatment

See a dermatologist. Make an appointment with a dermatologist, which is a doctor who specializes in skin and hair. Let them examine your skin and get a detailed medical history. They might ask about your skincare routine, too. Ask your dermatologist about a skin lightening cream like hydroquinone, which is available in OTC-strength (2%) and prescription-strength (4%) formulas.

Get a chemical peel or acid treatment for indented scars. The name for these indentations is atrophic scars. If you've got these, your dermatologist might suggest a chemical peel or a treatment using glycolic acid, pyruvic acid, or salicylic acid. Microdermabrasion, in which your skin is buffed down, and laser treatments also work well for these kinds of scars. Fillers are another option for atrophic scars.

Try silicone gel or cryotherapy for raised scars. Raised scars are called hypertrophic scars. They respond better to silicone gel, steroid therapy, and cryotherapy (freezing). A pulsed dye laser treatment also works well for hypertrophic scars. See which your dermatologist recommends. Injections can also help flatten raised scars.

Treating Dark Spots at Home

Deal with the acne first. Treating the acne also treats the dark spots and prevents new ones from forming. Wash your skin twice a day with a gentle cleanser and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid touching or picking at your blemishes and protect your skin from the sun. Use products that contain salicylic acid and/or a retinoid to help clear up your skin. Sometimes you may be left with dark spots after your acne heals, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PIH can occur in anyone, but tends to occur in darker-skinned individuals.

Lighten dark spots with hydroquinone. Head to the pharmacy and pick up a 2% hydroquinone cream. Apply it twice a day by dabbing a little bit on each dark spot.

Use a product that contains niacinamide and tranexamic acid. The combination of these 2 ingredients can help lighten dark spots. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. Look for a cream containing these ingredients and use it according to the instructions.

Apply a vitamin C serum to the dark spots. A serum made with vitamin C can help fade the marks. Pick one up from your local pharmacy and apply it as directed. Keep in mind that vitamin C can irritate your skin, and it may cause your skin to burn if you go out in the sun after you use it.

Wear sunscreen every day. Put on sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher each day. UV rays from the sun or tanning beds can make dark spots worse. Additionally, some dark-spot treatments can make you more sensitive to the sun.