How do you get rid of brown spots on the face?

Brown spots, also known as pigmentation spots, are a common aesthetic problem that can occur at any age. They are generally the result of excessive production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including sun exposure, aging (age spots, sign of the times), hormonal disorders, and certain medications.

There are several effective strategies for reducing the appearance of dark spots, from sun protection to anti-dark spot and anti-aging serums, tailored to each skin type.

 

What ingredients should you use in your skincare products to eliminate brown spots?

To eliminate brown spots on the face, it's essential to choose skincare products containing active ingredients that target excessive pigmentation. Here are some of the most effective ingredients to look for:

1. Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C helps brighten skin tone by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for melanin production. It also helps protect against UV damage and promotes collagen production.

2. Azelaic acid: This ingredient is renowned for its ability to treat hyperpigmentation and acne. It works by inhibiting melanin production and removing dead skin cells, which can help reduce dark spots.

3. Kojic acid: Kojic acid is another skin-lightening agent that works by inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, a key enzyme in the melanin production process. It is often used to treat age spots and other forms of skin discoloration.

4. Retinol (Vitamin A): Retinol stimulates cell renewal and can reduce the appearance of dark spots by exfoliating at a deeper level and accelerating the production of new skin cells.

5. Glycolic acid: This alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) helps exfoliate skin and remove the top layer of dead skin cells, which can improve the appearance of pigmentation spots.

6. Arbutin: A derivative of hydroquinone, arbutin is less irritating and just as effective at lightening pigmentation spots by inhibiting melanin production.

7. Niacinamide: Vitamin B3 or niacinamide is renowned for its ability to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It also helps strengthen the skin barrier and improve skin elasticity.

By incorporating these ingredients into your skincare routine, you can effectively target brown spots and improve the evenness of your complexion. It's always advisable to start with a moderate concentration of these active ingredients to see how your skin reacts, and gradually increase the concentration or frequency of application according to your skin's needs and tolerance.

The importance of sun protection

The first line of defense against brown spots is adequate sun protection.Sun exposure can aggravate existing spots and cause new ones by stimulating melanin production. It's crucial to use a day cream with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply the cream to your face every morning, even on overcast or wintry days, as UVA and UVB rays can penetrate clouds and windows. In summer, or on particularly sunny days, reapply every two hours, and after every swim or excessive perspiration.

Choosing the right anti-spot skincare for your skin type

Skin care products to treat dark spots should be chosen with care, taking into account your skin type. For sensitive skin, look for gentle formulas without irritating ingredients. Oily skin will benefit from non-comedogenic serums or creams, while dry skin will require enriched moisturizing products. Anti-spot serums, containing active ingredients such as vitamin C, kojic acid or azelaic acid, can be particularly effective. Apply these serums morning and night before your moisturizer to maximize their effectiveness.

Your daily morning and evening skincare routine should include specific morning and evening steps to combat dark spots.

In the morning, start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser, followed by the application of an anti-spot serum.

After the serum, apply a moisturizing day cream with SPF.

In the evening, after cleansing, use the anti-spot serum again before applying a suitable night cream. This twice-daily routine helps maintain the effectiveness of anti-spot treatments and reinforces the skin's moisture barrier.

Professional treatments

If brown spots are particularly stubborn, professional treatments may be an effective option. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser treatments are procedures that can reduce the appearance of pigmentation spots by removing superficial layers of skin or targeting melanin. These treatments should always be carried out by qualified professionals, and prior consultation is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment according to skin type and sensitivity.

Anti-ageing and preventive advice

In addition to direct care for brown spots, anti-aging practices can help prevent their appearance. Moisturizing the skin regularly, eating a diet rich in antioxidants, and avoiding smoking are all measures that help maintain skin health. In addition, limiting sun exposure and wearing hats and protective clothing when out and about can significantly reduce the risk of developing pigmentation spots.

Sources

Mayo clinic. Age spot (liver spot)

Choi W, Yin L, Smuda C, Batzer J, Hearing VJ, Kolbe L. Molecular and histological characterization of age spots. Exp Dermatol. 2017 Mar;26(3):242-248. doi: 10.1111/exd.13203. Epub 2017 Feb 9. PMID: 27621222; PMCID: PMC5342934.