In our previous guide on 5 quick tips on how to remove black spots on face, our doctors shared general advice that is very helpful for removing dark spots on the face. In this article, we’ll zoom in on one particular topic – how to remove dark spots caused by pimples. Doctors treat this category of dark spots differently from other types of pigmentation. Many patients often observe that pimples and dark spots frequently occur at the same time. This is because the dark spots are usually caused by acne. When you get rid of acne, you will eliminate the dark spots. Read on to find out more about how to eliminate acne and its accompanying dark spots.
Tip 1: Treat acne early
Studies have shown that treating acne in its early stages can prevent it from getting worse. If acne worsens in severity before treatment begins, you may be at high risk of developing dark spots and patches, or even keloids, which is a type of raised scar. The more severe the acne, the higher the likelihood of scarring.
Getting the first signs of acne treated also prevents us from developing the habit of picking at their acne. Another benefit would be getting to avoid strong medicine that is usually required to treat acne. Such medicine may come with possible side effects and multiple visits to the dermatologist. Hence, early intervention is key to preventing the formation of dark spots and scars. After all, having acne is already painful enough!
Tip 2: Do not pick your pimples
This involves not squeezing, picking, or popping your pimples even though it may be very tempting to do so. It is imperative not to do this as it increases the risk of bacterial infection. A popped pimple has a much higher chance of getting infected than one that you avoid touching.
PIH occurs when irritation or wound such as acne, causes the skin to become inflamed. As the skin heals, too much melanin is produced, resulting in the darkening of the skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives colour to our skin. The discolouration remains even after the wound has completely healed, resulting in the appearance of dark spots.
Tip 3: Use skincare products designed for acne / oily skin
It’s important to use water-based skincare products as they do not clog your pores. Clogged pores are usually caused by oily conditions, and lead to even more acne, resulting in even more dark spots. The underlying problem of acne is that there are hair, oil, and dead skin cells which plug a skin follicle, making it easier for bacteria on the skin to spread into the follicle. Thus, the main aim is to prevent acne as much as possible, and this means avoiding oil-based skincare products which will clog your pores.
Look out for products that are labelled as “non – comedogenic” or won’t clog pores. Noncomedogenic refers to products that can help us avoid pore blockages and acne problems. Beneficial ingredients to look out for include benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulphur, and non-comedogenic oils. These do not clog pores and keep dry skin supple while keeping oily skin acne-free.
Tip 4: Reduce the use of heavy makeup
If possible, do reduce the use of heavy makeup to conceal the dark spots as this may aggravate the pimples. Instead, use proper water-based skincare to restore your skin and appropriate lightening products to remove the dark spots. Though heavy makeup can be effective in concealing dark spots, it can also cause even more blemishes and pimples. If you really have to, do wear mineral makeup or non-comedogenic makeup instead.
Tip 5: Combine laser therapy with skincare regime
Our doctors recently shared about why our patients like laser for pigmentation removal. Having a good home care regime is imperative. However, if you would like to accelerate your pigmentation removal journey, it can be helpful to combine laser therapy with your home skin care regime to remove dark spots or PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) caused by acne.
Laser treatment can clear acne through a multitude of benefits:
- Reduced sebum production
- Skin balancing
- Unclogged pores
- Reduced inflammation resulting in dark spots being removed
In addition, it can also reduce blemishes left behind by acne. The end result is clean and clear skin, a bright visage, and visible pore reduction.
What’s Next?
Dark spots that are caused by pimples can diminish one’s self-confidence greatly, and affect your outlook in life. If you would like some help from our experienced, friendly and competent doctors, consult our medical team at Eeva Medical Aesthetic Clinic for guidance on a treatment plan customized to treat your pigmentation skin condition.
