The Fastest Way to Lighten Pigmentation Caused by Acne

What is the cause of those dark marks which stay on our face even after our acne has healed?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is just a form of skin pigmentation, like sunspots or age spots. These occur as a result of trauma to the skin. As it does not damage the follicle, it is not a true form of scarring. Thus, there is a way to revert back to your natural skin tone. It occurs when a pimple causes the skin to become inflamed. In response to the injury, the skin produces an increased amount of melanin which results in these dark spots.

I used to suffer from these dark spots on my face, even after my acne had cleared out. I felt very insecure and unhappy with my complexion. Thus, I started trying out different treatments to lighten my dark spots. I hope it will be of help to you too!

2016, when I had recurring acne breakouts and dark spots

2019, with clear skin and no scarring

Here are some of the fastest ways to lighten the dark spots on your face, for glowing and evenly toned facial complexion.

#1. Use vitamin C products on the dark spots

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, It reduces skin inflammation.It helps the surface of your skin appear smoother and firmer by activating cells called fibroblasts that make new collagen. It helps to repair damaged skin cells. Applying it to your skin feeds your skin protective antioxidants that fight free radical damage and inflammation caused by the sun, pollution and other factors. The key is using a product that has the L-ascorbic acid form of vitamin C—the only one that can penetrate the deep layers of your skin. 

While applying sunscreen is still the best way to prevent pigmentation and reduce the harmful effects of UV light, rubbing in a vitamin C-containing serum or lotion underneath counteracts to the small percentage of UV rays that can sneak through sunblock. Add it into your daily skincare routine. The L-ascorbic acid form of vitamin C has also been shown to interrupt the overproduction of pigment, called melanin; over time that can help lighten brown spots, what’s known as hyperpigmentation. Although Vitamin C is less effective than some other skin-lightening agents you’ll find, like hydroquinone, it’s milder and more ideal for sensitive skin. 

When choosing vitamin C skincare products, look on the ingredient list for L-ascorbic acid. And, because vitamins C and E are more effective as a team, look for products that list E’s active form, alpha-tocopherol. Remember that the closer an ingredient is to the top of the list on a product label, the higher its concentration. Whether you choose a serum, lotion or cream, ascorbic acid can degrade quickly when exposed to sunlight, so choose products in dark or opaque jars and store them safely away from sunlight.

#2. Use alpha-hydroxy-acids (AHAs)

Out of all the AHAs available, the most effective are glycolic and salicylic acids to help cure acne related pigmentation. AHAs are mainly used to exfoliate. They help to promote collagen and blood flow, correct discoloration from scars and age spots. They also prevent acne breakouts. AHAs help with the removal of dead skin cells and the renewal of skin to give a brighter and healthier glow. Use more sunscreen if you are adding AHAs to your routine since your skin will be more exposed and sensitive to UV rays.

#3. Use Retinol

Retinol is also known as Vitamin A, Retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels in the skin, which improves skin color.

#4. Change our diet to consume more healthy fruits and vegetables. 

Decrease consumption of oily or sugary foods to see brighter and healthier skin complexion.

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, anchovies, sardines, and mackerel contain lots of antioxidant properties to help reduce inflammation on your skin. They're high in retinol (also known as Vitamin A) that help improve skin regeneration so that your acne scars heal faster.

Consume more fruits like oranges, kiwi, papaya. Tomatoes are also a good choice. Foods which are high in antioxidants will lighten your pigmentation and brighten your skin tone.

#5. However, many other factors play a part in the lightening of our skin, such as our diet, lifestyle, stress and it takes a lot of patience. I highly recommend you to follow this step-by-step guide written by my friend, who is a Dermatologist for a more all-rounded and thus effective solution to lighten dark spots: http://hungchloe.com/skinwhitening/