Concern - Dark Spots
Best Products for Treating and Preventing Dark Spots
Dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, occur when excess melanin is produced in response to inflammation, UV exposure, heat, or skin trauma. This can happen after breakouts, sun damage, or even friction — and spots may appear brown, black, gray, red, or pink, depending on skin tone and the underlying cause.
To effectively treat and prevent dark spots, the key is to reduce inflammation, inhibit excess pigment production, and protect the skin from UV and heat exposure. Incorporate brightening serums with ingredients like Vitamin C, Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide, and Licorice Root Extract to even tone and fade discoloration. Consistent daily sunscreen use is essential to prevent new spots from forming.
For those experiencing stubborn pigmentation or melasma, support your skin’s healing process with growth factors and barrier-strengthening moisturizers to calm irritation and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
For best results, work with an AOS esthetician to create a personalized brightening and pigment-control routine tailored to your skin type and lifestyle.
Dark spots, also called hyperpigmentation, form when inflammation, UV rays, heat, or skin trauma trigger excess melanin production. Breakouts, sun exposure, and even over-exfoliation can all lead to discoloration that varies from light brown to deep gray or red, depending on skin tone and cause.
The best way to fade dark spots is by combining brightening ingredients and daily sun protection. Look for serums withVitamin C,Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide, or Licorice Root Extract to lighten discoloration and even tone. Consistent use of broad-spectrum SPF 30+is essential to prevent new spots from forming.
Powerful brightening and pigment-inhibiting ingredients include Vitamin C, Azelaic Acid
Yes —gentle exfoliation is key to fading dark spots and restoring radiance. Instead of harsh scrubs or overuse of acids, choose enzyme-based exfoliants made from ingredients like papaya, pineapple, or pumpkin. Enzymes naturally dissolve dead skin cells without irritating or damaging the skin barrier, allowing brightening serums to absorb more effectively. Regular use reveals smoother, more even-toned skin while minimizing inflammation that can worsen pigmentation. Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, and Arbutin. For added repair, look for products that include growth factors, peptides, or antioxidants to support healthy skin turnover and barrier function.
Most dark spots will fade over time with a consistent brightening skincare routine and UV protection. However, deeper pigmentation, such as melasma, may require ongoing management and the support of an AOS esthetician to achieve and maintain visible results.
Prevention starts with daily sunscreen, even indoors. Protect your skin from UV rays, blue light, and heat exposure, and use antioxidant-rich serums to neutralize free radicals. Keeping inflammation under control with gentle, barrier-supportive skincare also helps minimize pigment triggers.
Our estheticians recommend starting with a Vitamin C or Azelaic Acid serum, combined with a hydrating moisturizer and SPF 30+ for protection. Explore our curated brightening skincare collection for professional-grade solutions to fade existing spots and prevent new ones.