How to Reduce Dark Spots on Face: Causes, Care & Prevention

Noticing brown patches on your skin? Can you get rid of dark spots? Here is everything you need to know about dark spots on the face & body. Including the most common causes and a skincare routine you can adopt to reduce their appearance.

What's in this article?

Read Time: 11minutes

Dark spots - Overview
What are dark spots?
3 common areas dark spots appear on
6 causes for dark spots on the face and body
How to reduce dark spots
Skincare routine to reduce dark spots
How to prevent dark spots on skin?
Dark spots - Takeaway
FAQs

Dark spots - Overview

Dark spots, often referred to as pigment spots, brown marks, liver spots or age spots are a common skin concern that can affect anyone. Whether caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes or aging, these spots can diminish the skin's natural radiance.

To reduce the appearance of dark spots, incorporate a skincare routine that contains ingredients that target their appearance. To help prevent dark spots from visibly developing or darkening, use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.

In this comprehensive guide, NIVEA explores the causes of dark spots and shares effective ways to manage their appearance, revealing a path to a more even and luminous-looking complexion.

Understanding dark spots

What are dark spots?

Dark spots or brown patches are flat areas of pigmentation that form on the skin. They appear when melanin, the pigment that determines the color of your skin, is overproduced. This accumulation of melanin results in patches of skin appearing darker than the surrounding area. Dark spots on the face are particularly common, although brown patches on the body also affect many people.

Understanding dark spots

3 common areas where dark spots appear

Pigment spots can appear on various areas of the body due to factors like sun exposure, aging, hormonal changes, and skin damage. Here are three areas where dark spots often occur:

Face:
Dark spots on the face are particularly common due to the face's high exposure to sunlight and the delicate nature of its skin. Dark spots, hormonal changes, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can all contribute to the face’s uneven skin tone and discoloration.
Hands:
The hands are frequently exposed to environmental aggressors, including UV rays and pollutants. The skin on the hands is thinner, making it more prone to visible pigmentation from sunspots and age spots.
Chest:
The delicate skin of the chest is frequently exposed to the sun, making it susceptible to pigment spots. Low-cut clothing and the cumulative effects of sun exposure over time contribute to the development of brown spots in this area.

6 causes of dark spots

What causes dark spots on the face and body?

Knowing the main causes of brown spots on the skin can help to understand how to prevent them at the source. Although some causes are unavoidable, it is still important to understand why you’ve developed them, as this can inform prevention. Here are the most common causes:

woman holding a Nivea Luminous630 Antispot Advanced Hand Cream

Sun Exposure:
Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays triggers an increase in melanin production, leading to the formation of dark sunspots. This is particularly true for areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, hands, arms, and shoulders.
Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to the development of dark spots. Conditions like melasma often arise due to hormonal imbalances, leading to patches of pigmentation and dark spots on the face.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):
Inflammation caused by acne, insect bites, or other skin trauma sometimes triggers an overproduction of melanin. As the skin heals, pigment spots can form, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.
Genetics:
Genetic predisposition can influence the skin's susceptibility to dark spots. People with a family history of pigmentation issues can be more prone to developing brown spots, regardless of external factors.
Friction and Rubbing:
Areas of the skin that experience constant friction, such as the inner thighs or underarms, can develop dark brown marks as the skin's response to repeated irritation.
Aging:
As we age, the skin's natural processes can become less efficient, including the distribution of melanin. This can result in the accumulation of pigmentation in certain areas, causing dark, brown, or black spots to appear.

6 ways to fade dark spots appearance

How to reduce dark spots on the face in appearance

Can you get rid of dark spots? It is very difficult to get rid of dark spots, however there are some approaches you can take to help fade their visibility. Be sure to bear in mind that some of these solutions can be invasive, so seek advice from your dermatologist where appropriate:

Laser Therapy:
Laser treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) or fractional laser, focus on the melanin contained in the cells located within areas of pigment spots, aiming to reduce their visibility. Typically, these procedures are administered by dermatologists or skilled practitioners.
Chemical Peels:
Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the top layers, which can promote skin renewal and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Several treatments are sometimes necessary to see significant results.
Cryotherapy:
In this process, liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and eliminate the extra melanin in dark spots, causing them to gradually fade away.
Microdermabrasion:
Microdermabrasion mechanically removes the outer layers of the skin. To do this, fine crystals are projected at high speed onto the surface of the skin, then quickly removed by suction. Dark spots are thus reduced little by little and the skin regenerates.
Home Remedies:
Certain natural remedies like Lemon Juice, Aloe Vera, Apple Cider Vinegar, and Green Tea extract are occasionally used by some as a natural way to help improve the appearance of dark spots. However, their effectiveness is not proven, and some could also have an irritating effect. It is essential to use these remedies with caution and it is generally preferable to use products with test tolerance and effectiveness.
Skincare Routine:
Adopt a skin care routine that specifically targets this concern by choosing cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and a sunscreen that can help to fade and reduce the appearance of dark spots overtime.

Before starting an invasive treatment, consult a dermatologist to determine the best approach for your skin type and the size and severity of your dark spots. Remember, regular use of sunscreen is essential to help combat the appearance of new dark spots and maintain overall skin health.

Treat the appearance of dark spots on face

NIVEA Luminous630 Skincare Routine to reduce dark spots appearance:

Cleanse:

Start your skincare routine with a facial cleanse, effectively eliminating impurities and prepping your skin for the next steps. This initial step ensures a clean, receptive canvas for the rest of your skincare products.

Explore Face Cleansers

Serum:

Apply a serum that could help even out your skin and fade the appearance of dark spots. The NIVEA Luminous630 Dark Spot Solution Advanced Serum visibly reduces the look of dark spots in as little as 2 weeks* and creates brighter, luminous-looking skin – thanks to the patented LUMINOUS630® ingredient.

*Dark spots are visibly reduced after each application with regular use.

Eye Cream:

The eye area is subject to high mechanical stress due to blinking, smiling, talking, and all the other facial expressions we make every day. Therefore, it is recommended to give it some special attention.

The NIVEA Luminous630 Dark Spot Solution Anti-Dark Circles Eye Cream works to visibly reduce the look of dark circles in 4 weeks* for an illuminated and youthful-looking eye contour. Thanks to the innovative blend of LUMINOUS630®, Caffeine and Hyaluronic Acid

*Dark circles intensity is visibly reduced. The under-eye area looks more radiant with each use.

Moisturize:

Select a moisturizer that effectively hydrates your skin without causing pore blockages. Maintaining proper skin hydration can significantly improve its overall look and feel.

The NIVEA Luminous630 Dark Spot Solution Even Tone Cream, infused with Hyaluronic Acid, effectively fills wrinkles, smooths skin, and reduces the look of dark spots and hyperpigmentation in just 4 weeks*. Suitable for morning and evening use to meet daily moisture needs and nourish your skin as you sleep, all the while acting on the appearance of brown spots on the face.

*Works to visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots after each application, with regular use.

Sunscreen: Throughout the day, it's essential to protect your skin from the sun and against harmful UV rays by using a sunscreen with a strong SPF. Sun exposure can further darken your dark spots.

By incorporating NIVEA's LUMINOUS630® skincare products into your routine, you could improve the appearance of your dark spots.

three women using Nivea Luminous630 Eye Treatment

How does Luminous630 help dark spots on the face?

LUMINOUS630® is the breakthrough patented ingredient from 10 years meticulous research. After multiple optimization rounds, molecule number 630 was the most successful one in balancing pigmentation, reducing the appearance of dark spots. That’s how the breakthrough ingredient LUMINOUS630® was born.

LUMINOUS630® targets the root cause of dark spots, helping to diminish their appearance.

Clinical studies were performed on the Advanced Treatment Serum, checking the skin after 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 12 weeks and it proved the outstanding efficacy of our formula.

In 2 weeks, there is a visible reduction in the appearance of dark spots
In 4 weeks, Dark spots are visibly reduced
Continuous improvement over time with regular usage

NIVEA Luminous630 Range

How to help prevent the appearance of dark spots on skin?

Not all causes of dark spots on skin can be prevented - some occur naturally due to age and other factors. That said, it is possible to help combat the appearance of dark spots on the skin caused by the sun. Here are some tips to help you prevent brown patches on skin caused by sun damage:

Use Sunscreen
Using sunscreen protects your skin from the sun damage that causes brown spots. By using a high SPF sunscreen - you can prevent your skin from becoming damaged and ensure that it's as healthy as possible to combat dark spots on the skin.
Cover Up
It is possible to reduce pigmentation spots on the skin of the face, neck, and other overexposed areas by protecting them from the sun. Even if you use sunscreen, these areas are still more prone to dark spots than others. Wear a wide-brimmed cap or hat to protect your face and neck from the sun.
Avoid The Midday Sun
The sun reaches its highest temperature and most intense points during midday and early evenings, increasing the risk of sun damage and the potential development of black and brown spots on the skin. To protect your skin, seek shade during these times and choose to enjoy the sun during periods when it isn’t as damaging to your skin.

By adopting these preventive measures and making sun protection a priority, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing dark spots and maintain healthier, youthful-looking skin over time.

Dark spots - Takeaway

Dark spots are a common skin concern, often occurring on sun-exposed regions such as the face, hands, back, and chest. However, their appearance can be effectively managed through a dedicated skincare routine and other cosmetic measures.

Consistency is key in skincare, as is the regular application of sunscreen to shield the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing the dark spots from intensifying.

Although dark spots are generally not dangerous, it is strongly advised to have any irregular skin color changes examined by a dermatologist to rule out any possible serious skin conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1:What causes dark spots?

Dark spots can be caused by factors like UV exposure, hormonal changes, aging, genetics, skin injuries, and inflammation.

Q2: Can the appearance of dark spots be prevented?

Yes to an extent, preventing dark spots involves consistent sun protection. Consistently applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours can help prevent new dark spots from appearing or existing ones from worsening.

Q3: Are there natural remedies for dark spots?

Lemon juice, Aloe Vera, Honey, and Turmeric are some natural remedies. However, their effectiveness has not been verified and they can sometimes be irritating. It is therefore preferable to use products whose effectiveness and tolerance have been tested and approved.

Q4: How long does it take to see results from dark spot treatments?

Results vary depending on the treatment used and the severity of the dark spots. It can take several weeks to months to notice visible improvements.

Q5: Are dark spots dangerous?

In most cases, dark spots are harmless and purely a cosmetic concern. However, it's important to consult a dermatologist to rule out any serious underlying skin conditions, especially if a spot is irregular in shape, changing, or accompanied by other symptoms.

Q6: Can I cover up dark spots with makeup?

Yes, makeup can help conceal dark spots temporarily. However, using skincare products to effectively treat the dark spots will provide longer-lasting results.

Q7: Can people with darker skin tones develop dark spots?

Yes, individuals with all skin tones can develop dark spots. In fact, those with darker skin tones are often more susceptible to certain types of dark spots, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).