Black spots on face: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

July 9, 2024

Dr. Shraddha Pitalia

3 min read

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A girl with black spots on face

Hyperpigmentation, also known as black spots, is a common and annoying skin condition that appears on the face, legs, and other parts of the body. Whether it is caused by acne scars, sun exposure, or hormonal imbalance, dealing with these black spots is challenging, especially if they are on your face. It can be caused due to various reasons. In this blog, we will explain the causes, preventive steps, and treatments for black spots on the face and other areas of your skin. Read on to find out how to get clearer skin and why you should make an appointment at Evenly Clinic if you are struggling with black spots on your skin, particularly on your face and legs.

Understanding Black spots on face

Facial hyperpigmentation, or black spots on the face, is caused by an excess of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. There are several things that can trigger this overproduction, such as:

Causes of Black Spots on Face

  • Sun exposure: Sun exposure is a major cause of hyperpigmentation, particularly on the face. UV rays from the sun damage the skin, stimulating melanin production, the pigment that is responsible for skin colour, leading to darker patches on the skin.
  • Hormonal changes: Hormonal imbalances, particularly during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills, can disrupt melanin production, causing dark patches on the face.
  • Skin Conditions: Certain post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis, can produce excess melanin as it heals, leaving behind these spots.
  • Medications: Certain medications, including some antibiotics, can increase melanin production as a side effect, leading to hyperpigmentation.
  • Aging: As we get older, our skin loses its ability to regenerate and becomes more prone to developing these spots.
  • Poor Hygiene: Dirt and dead skin cells build up on the face from improper cleansing, which results in the formation of black spots.

Understanding the root cause of the face pigmentation is crucial to effectively treating and preventing further black spots on face.

Different types of black spots and their characteristics

All the black spots on the face are not same. Determining the best course of treatment requires an understanding of different types and their unique characteristics. Sunspots from UV exposure, melasma from hormonal fluctuations, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars are common forms. Each type of pigmentation requires a specific treatment.

Symptoms of Black Spots

  • Dark Patches: Black spots typically occur as dark patch with varied sizes and shapes. These commonly appear on the face.
  • Discoloration: Depending on the severity of your pigmentation and your skin tone, the spots can be light brown, dark brown, or even black.
  • Variations in Texture: Som spots may feel elevated, even though they are flat.
  • Itching: Some people may experience irritation and itchiness around the black spots.
  • Sensitivity: The skin surrounding these spots becomes more sensitive to touch.

Read Also: How to get rid of blemishes on face?

Treatments for Black spots on face

If you are seeking an effective treatment to get rid of black spots on your skin or face, there are a range of professional treatments available, from gentle topical creams to more invasive procedures. But it is imperative to consult a dermatologist to determine the root cause and recommend a customised treatment plan based on the type and severity. Here is a breakdown of some common treatments offered by skin clinics.

  • Topical Treatments: Skin-lightening creams and serums containing ingredients like hydroquinone, licorice, glycolic acid, cysteamine, kojic acid, Vitamin C, alpha-hydroxy acids, or retinoids can help reduce melanin production and lighten existing spots.
  • Chemical Peels: This treatment involves a controlled application of naturally made acid solutions to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, promoting new cell growth and reducing pigmented skin underneath.
  • Laser Treatments: Laser treatments target specific wavelengths of light to break down melanin deposits in the darkened areas, effectively lightening dark spots. This is more effective for stubborn black spots on the face.
  • Glutathione IV: It involves the administration of glutathione through intravenous infusion to reduce pigmentation on the face.
  • Carbon Laser Toning: This treatment involves the application of a thin layer of carbon lotion and the application of the laser directly to the skin. This process stimulates collagen production and reduces the appearance of black spots on the face.

Read Also: Achieve radiant skin with the power of glutathione injections

Natural Remedies

  • Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can help gradually lighten dark areas. Apply pure aloe vera gel, leave it for 30 minutes, and rinse it.
  • Lemon Juice: Although lemon juice’s citric acid acts as a natural bleaching agent, it should be used with caution to avoid irritation. Apply lemon juice on the spots for 15 minutes and rinse them.
  • Turmeric Paste: Mix some water with turmeric and make a paste. Apply the paste to the black spot, let it dry, and wash it off.
  • Potato slices: As they contain natural bleaching agents, they lighten the hyperpigmentation with regular use. Extract the juice from the potato, apply it to the skin for 20 minutes, and rinse it off.

Disclaimer: These remedies may not work for everyone and can irritate some skin types. It’s always best to consult a dermatologist before using any new product on your face.

Preventative Measures

  • Sunscreen: Applying high-SPF sunscreen on a regular basis helps prevent new black spots from developing and old ones from getting lighter.
  • Protective Clothing: Wearing hats and sunglasses can shield your face from harmful UV rays.

Black Spots on Legs and Other Areas

Although black spots on the face are the main topic of this blog, they can appear anywhere on the body, including the legs, and no matter where they appear, the treatments and causes are the same.

Why choose Evenly for black spots (pigmentation)?

At Evenly Clinic, we specialise in treating black spots on the face, neck, and other areas of the body. Our team of board-certified dermatologists thoroughly evaluates your skin, diagnoses the cause, and offers personalised treatment plans tailored to your skin type and concerns. We use USFDA-approved equipment, the latest technologies, and proven methods to ensure effective and lasting results.

If you’re tired of dealing with black spots on your face or skin, don’t wait any longer.Schedule an appointment with Evenly Clinic today and take the first step towards clearer, more radiant skin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, black spots (hyperpigmentation) are darkened areas of skin due to melanin overproduction. These spots can appear on any part of the body. Blackheads, on the other hand, are clogged pores filled with sebum (oil) and dead skin cells.

Yes, hyperpigmentation, can occur on various parts of the body, including the legs, arms, and even the underarms, due to exposure to the sun, hormonal imbalances, or skin conditions.

Popping or plucking is not recommended. It can raise the chance of infection, exacerbate inflammation, and leave scars.

The severity of your black spots and the treatment you choose will determine how long it takes to see results. Topical treatments typically take a few weeks to show results, whereas laser treatments might do so more quickly.

A recurrence of these spots is possible, particularly if the underlying cause (such as sun exposure) is left untreated. For long-term maintenance, using sunscreen consistently and following good skincare procedures are essential.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.

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