Best Skincare for Dark Spots on Face

Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed darker patches of skin on your face or body with no idea of how they got there? Dark spots are actually a very common skin concern that’s caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

A major trigger is UV damage from the sun. The skin produces more melanin to protect itself from this damage, and patches of skin go darker as a result. Dark patches can also be triggered when the skin undergoes a trauma of some kind such as a cut or bite, an acne breakout, or a patch of psoriasis. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, are also common causes of dark spots.

The most important thing to know is that dark spots are relatively harmless, but if they do bother you on a day-to-day basis, there are a few skincare dark spots ingredients that can help. These will not only minimise the appearance of any existing dark spots but prevent more from appearing in the future.

Read on to discover the key ingredients that can help to improve dark spots and how they reduce dark spots on the skin.

Alpha-Hydroxy acids

Gentle exfoliation with alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid is an effective way of improving the appearance of dark spots. As these acids contain very tiny molecules, they’re easy for the skin to absorb and exfoliate it effectively. They also accelerate skin cell surface turnover which helps shed old skin, smooth the complexion, and fade dark spots. AHAs can also help keep skin texture firm and plump.

Azelaic Acid and Kojic Acid

Persistent dark marks can be targeted with ingredients such as azelaic acid. This antioxidant molecule can be very effective at fading dark marks, especially those on darker skin tones. Likewise, another acid favoured by dermatologists for treating dark spots is Kojic acid, an ingredient derived from mushrooms known for its antioxidant protection and ability to inhibit the production of melanin. This makes it very effective at fading discolouration. It can cause some irritation and dryness, however, so is best used with the guidance of a dermatologist or skin expert.

Retinol

One of the most powerful products for dark spots is retinol, a vitamin A derived ingredient that accelerates skin cell surface turnover. This exfoliating process smooths the surface of the skin, lightening dark spots at the same time. Retinol comes in a range of different strengths but dermatologists advise starting gently and increasing the strength of treatment as your skin becomes tolerant to it.

As each of these ingredients has an exfoliating action on the skin, they also make the skin more sensitive to photo damage. You can counteract this by using them in conjunction with your daily broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Liftactiv Specialist Dark Spots & Pigmentation Serum 30ml

This powerful serum from Vichy’s Liftactiv Specialist range is formulated to help target dark spots and wrinkles at the same time. It contains derm-active ingredients comprising 4% Niacinamide, Vitamin CG, Glycolic acid, and Tranexamic acid to help brighten and smooth the complexion while leaving a more even appearance. Apply a few drops to the face and neck each morning and evening after cleansing.

Liftactiv B3 Anti-Dark Spots Day Cream

Once you’ve targeted dark spots with products that exfoliate and smooth the surface of the skin, moisturising will help to enhance your results and strengthen the skin. Liftactiv B3 Anti-Dark Spots Cream SPF50 is specially formulated to help correct and reduce all types of pigmentation and wrinkles. It contains Niacinamide (vitamin B3) alongside Vitamin E and Hyaluronic acid, to help improve the overall appearance of the skin, and LHA, a peeling active that promotes skin-surfacing. The formula helps to reduce the appearance of existing dark spots combined with ultra high broad-spectrum SPF50 to help prevent pigmentation induced by UV-damage.

Liftactiv B3 Tone Correcting Night Cream

At night, we recommend Vichy Liftactiv B3 Tone Correcting Night Cream with pure retinol, for a more even skin tone and radiant skin. Combat pigmentation caused by day-to-day exposure with our powerful blend of niacinamide (vitamin B3) and 0.15% pure retinol. Liftactiv B3 tone correcting night cream promotes skin surface cell renewal and helps even out skin tone during the night.

Liftactiv Retinol Serum

Retinol is one of the most effective ways of improving the appearance of dark spots, so incorporating it into your evening skincare routine is recommended by dermatologists. Vichy’s Liftactiv Retinol Serum helps to improve the overall tone and radiance of the complexion with 0.2% Pure Retinol and 1% Probiotic derived fractions, a cultured bacterial lysate. This potent combination helps to promote skin renewal and improves overall suppleness and firmness. Apply it in the evening after cleansing, starting two to three times a week initially. You can then increase your usage as your skin becomes more tolerant. Don’t forget to follow it with broad-spectrum sunscreen the following morning.

Capital Soleil UV-Age Daily SPF50+

Always remember to protect skin with SPF, to protect from further UV damage and dark spots. Capitol Soleil UV-Age Daily SPF50 is a very high broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen, enriched with peptides, niacinamide, vitamin E, and our multi-patented Netlock technology. This formula protects the skin and helps to correct UV-induced wrinkles and dark spots, while strengthening the skin’s defence barrier function.