The Regimen

Dark Spots Repair: The Definitive Guide

Before and After Mandelic Acid for Dark Spots

Before and After Using Mandelic Acid for Dark Spots

Discoloration from sunspots, age spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is one of the most common and most challenging skin issues to deal with because of the deep-rooted nature of melanin production. If you're dealing with stubborn dark spots or hyperpigmentation, you’ve come to the right place.

What Causes Dark Spots on the Skin?

Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, result from overproduction of the skin’s protective melanin response. A variety of factors can trigger overproduction of melanin, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, and injury to the skin. Over time, excess melanin accumulates, resulting in flat, darkened patches on the skin.

How to Repair and Prevent Dark Spots

Avoid triggers—use sunscreen, don’t pick at your skin, reduce inflammation—and maintain a consistent skincare routine with ingredients to inhibit tyrosinase (the enzyme responsible for melanin production), antioxidants, exfoliating acids, and SPF.

Best Ingredients for targeting dark spots and discoloration:

  • Clinical Mandelic Acid: Gentle exfoliator, tyrosinase inhibitor
  • Retinoids: Accelerate cell turnover, inhibit tyrosinase
  • Vitamin C: Antioxidant, tyrosinase inhibitor
  • Lactic Acid: Gentle exfoliator, tyrosinase inhibitor
  • Niacinamide: Blocks transfer of melanosomes to melanocytes
  • Aloe: Tyrosinase inhibitor
  • Glycolic Acid: Exfoliator, tyrosinase inhibitor
  • Kojic Acid: Tyrosinase inhibitor
  • SPF: Blocks UV rays to prevent photodamage
  • Hydroquinone: Breaks up existing pigment and blocks new production (prescription required)

Powerful Dark Spot Repair Solutions:

8% Mandelic Acid Serum

"Best Serum for melanin-rich, acne-prone skin types."  —NewBeauty 

A dramatically different AHA experience synergistically formulated to target the top three trouble spots—acne, aging, irregular pigmentation—in one simple, unsurpassed serum that’s safe for all skin tones. 

Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash 

Don’t just cleanse, repair. An AHA powerhouse of antioxidant, free-radical fighting, age-defying strength. Gently exfoliates, controls acne-causing bacteria, brightens and balances skin tone production. Ultra fresh. Ultra gentle. Ultra restorative.

Derm-A-Renew

Our award-winning, magic-in-a-bottle resurfacing and brightening serum is ideal for treating dark spots. The transformative strength of Retinoid with the added boost of peptides to reveal a more luminous appearance. 

Pure C+E 

Perfect for daily use, this Vitamin C and Vitamin E therapy promotes even, smooth and glowing skin. Protect, correct and prevent environmental damage with this potent antioxidant serum to trap and block free radicals from skin.

For stubborn or severe cases of hyperpigmentation, a professional chemical peel can complement your at-home regimen to speed results . We don’t recommend things like laser resurfacing, or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy since the heat can trigger pigment production.

Who is prone to hyperpigmentation?

All skin types and tones experience hyperpigmentation. However, dark skin tones are more prone to the risk due to higher melanin concentration.

How long does it take to fade dark spots?

Pigment cycles through the skin’s layers, taking 30 to 45 days for a complete turnover. Consistent use of the right products can show improvement in six to eight weeks. It may take several cell cycles until all the melanocytes are replaced with new healthy cells. Consistent use of the right products can bring visible improvement in six to eight weeks.

Final Tips for Dark Spot Repair

Be consistent with your skincare regimen.

Limit sun exposure and use SPF daily.

Avoid picking at pimples.

Consider alternatives to waxing for hair removal.

Avoid lasers and IPL treatments.

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