How to Get Rid of Dark Spots

See ya, sun spots!

Acne, sun exposure, hormone levels and genetics can all cause dark spots—a type of hyperpigmentation on the skin triggered by an overproduction of melanin. They can be tricky to get rid of, but we’re here to help with 5 easy steps that can help reduce their appearance, fast.

Step 1

Exfoliate regularly Removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin can help minimize unwanted spots—but better yet, exfoliation also allows your creams and serums to penetrate deeper into the skin. That means you’ll get far better, faster results from the products in your daily routine by doing it.Pro tip: To up your game, look for a facial cleanser with glycolic acid that easily penetrates your skin for better efficacy.

Step 2

Apply a dark spot corrector These serums, creams and treatments packed with brightening and skin tone evening ingredients, can help minimize the look of spots on your skin. Look for vitamin C for brightening, niacinamide to help with pigment production, and hydroquinone which can slow the production of melanin.

Step 3

Use a vitamin C serum This do-it-all antioxidant is a big deal. It hydrates, brightens, minimizes redness, promotes collagen production…the list goes on. Plus, it’s safe for most skin types and can be safely used with many other active ingredients.Pro tip: Check your serum’s color and use-by date. If it has darkened, the vitamin C might have oxidized and won’t carry the same benefits.

Step 4

Hydrate After all that treatment, seal the deal with a nourishing moisturizer to help strengthen the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture.

Step 5

Wear SPF Spending time in the sun will kickstart your skin’s melanin production, so make sure to protect it with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, every single day. It’s key to preventing dark spots from forming and becoming more pronounced. For extra coverage, wear a hat and seek shady areas to minimize your exposure to UV rays. Pro tip: Using a multitasking moisturizer with sun protection in your beauty routine is a smart way to combine 2 steps in 1.