Dark Spots

Hyperpigmentation (better known as Dark Spots)

is the production of excess melanin causing dark spots on the skin. Age spots,liver spots, freckles, sun spots and even pregnancy mask are all different examples of hyperpigmentation. Some of the causes include:

  • Hormonal changes
  • Heredity
  • Acne
  • Scarring
  • Botched skin treatments
  • Sun Exposure

Of course there are certain measures that are totally and completely out of our control such as heredity and hormonal changes but the things we can do to help prevent hyperpigmentation are key. It’s all fun and games until someone gets a damn dark spot. Everything just kind of comes out in the wash when your skin starts to lose its elasticity now doesn't it? You REALLY start to see your TRUE colors (no pun intended) We get to see the face behind the saying "I tan naturally, I don't need sunscreen". Well I hate to be the one to break it to you but all those years basking away in the sun will come out to haunt you in middle age. It’s not fair, I hate it, it's a total buzz kill, a nat at a barbecue if you will BUT the only way you can get rid of these annoying dark spots is by either preventing or repairing. If you already have dark spots there are a few natural ways to fade them out and get your complexion back to its natural, beautiful, radiant self.

Some natural ways to repair your skin of dark spots:

  • Exfoliation - exfoliation essentially triggers your skin to start repairing itself. Over time, fresh, new cells make their way to the surface while old, pigmented, dulling cells are exfoliated away. Many individuals advocate a once- or twice-a-week exfoliating ritual. I recommend exfoliating every day, especially if you have acne-prone skin.
  • Fruit Enzymes - Think of fruit enzymes as a form of gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation. Fruit enzymes soften and effectively exfoliate delicate skin helping to fade dark spots and dissolve dulling dead skin cells.
  • Vitamin C - Vitamin C (used in a serum) is a bit of an overachiever when it comes to hyperpigmentation. Its antioxidant properties help to prevent hyperpigmentation from forming in the first place, and it also lightens surface pigmentation caused by UV damage and acne inflammation.
  • Essential Oils -  certain essential oils harness crazy healing power. Frankincense, geranium, rose, tamanu, and lavender are exceptionally adept at fading marks, diminishing scars, and generally reducing inflammation.

 

References 1, 2 & 3

Products recommended for Hyperpigmentation or Dark Spots: