Dark spots are an enemy to most women, especially if they appear in obvious areas like the face. Can you imagine planning on an evening out, but even after all the makeup and all those layers of foundation you still see those dark spots? That’s a confidence killer right there! So, the only thing left would be to try and find dark spots treatments that work.

But what are dark spots and what causes them?

Dark spots, also known as age spots, are discolored patches that appear on your skin. They are mostly found on the face, shoulders, arms and the back. They appear in shades of red, brown, or grey, and are caused by oversecretion of melanin. There are different causes of dark spots, including excessive sun exposure, hormone changes, facial hair removal, acne or injury, and aging.

Dark spots come in different types

Most people think dark spots are all the same but research has proven otherwise. The common known types of dark spots are melasma, lentigines, and acne scars among others.

Dark spots treatments

To know the best treatment for your dark spots, you should first know what’s causing them. Below we have listed a few promising dark spots treatments, from in-clinic to home remedies.

Chemical Peels

Deep chemical peels like Cosmelan depigmentation peel is one of the leading dark spots treatments. It works by carefully peeling off the top layer of the skin to give way for new cells to regenerate whereby a new layer of skin is formed. Chemical peels are relatively painless but depending on which one you choose, be ready to experience some tingling, itchiness, and redness.

Microdermabrasion

This is a non-invasive skin treatment used to rejuvenate the skin. Here, microcrystals are sprayed onto your skin and then they are suctioned off, taking with them the damaged top layer of the skin. This improves the production of collagen, which reveals a more even-toned skin.

Lemon and Water

Lemon has for a long time been used as one the best natural dark spots treatments. But for people with sensitive skin, it can be harsh, hence why they’ll need to add a dash of water to dilute it. Mix the juice from half a lemon with water, then dab it on the face using cotton wool. Let it rest for 20 minutes then rinse with water.

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Potato Slices

Apart from making potato chips, you can use the same potatoes to do a little something for your dark spots. The starch and sugar components found in potatoes can be used to remove dead cells while the vitamins B6 and C, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus can be used to boost collagen production in the skin. All you have to do is take a slice of fresh uncooked potato and gently massage it on the areas where you have the dark circles. Let it sit for 10 minutes then rinse.

Buttermilk

Like chemical peels, buttermilk has alpha hydroxy acid that helps remove dead cells from the skin, which in return lightens dark spots. Just pour buttermilk in a small bowl and with a cotton ball apply it directly to the dark spots. Leave it for 20 minutes, then rinse. Do this daily until you see results.

Aloe Vera

As we all know or have heard, aloe vera is like the go-to cure-all natural remedy. This is because aloe vera has 90% amino acids. It also has vitamins A, B, C and E, which give it anti-aging and skin nourishing properties. With all these amazing properties dark spots, have no chance on your face or skin. Fresh aloe vera is one of the best dark spots treatments, which means you have to get directly from the leaves of the aloe plant. Simply squeeze the gel on your finger then apply directly onto the dark spot. Leave it on for 20 minutes then rinse it off with clean water.

SEE ALSO: 7 Amazing Benefits of Aloe Vera

Sweet Almond Oil

Most cosmetic products have almond oil in them because almond oil has linoleic acids, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins A, B2, B6, D and E. Cosmetic and skin care experts recommend the use of almond oil as it also acts as a sunscreen by protecting your skin from ultraviolet rays of the sun as it is not greasy, and absorbs quickly. To use it to fight dark spots, take a few drops of the almond oil in your fingers and apply directly on the dark spots and leave it as you go on your daily activities. Do not wash it.

Have you ever tried out one the dark spots treatments? What was your experience?