Understanding Dark Spots
Dark spots typically form on areas of skin exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. UV light damages your skin cells, causing them to release the dark skin pigment melanin. When these damaged skin cells cluster together, they form dark spots.1
In addition to sun exposure, other reasons you may develop dark spots include1:
Effective Ingredients for Dark Spots
If you’re looking for clearer skin, the first step is to fade away your pesky dark spots. Cosmetics and skin care products take advantage of several natural ingredients to tackle stubborn hyperpigmentation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C — also known as ascorbic acid — is commonly used to treat and minimize dark spots. It’s an excellent antioxidant that helps protect the skin against harmful UV rays. Dermatologists love vitamin C for its brightening properties and ability to reduce melanin production in the skin.1
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that’s key to healthy skin. Studies show that niacinamide blocks melanin from moving into your skin cells.3 This makes vitamin B3 the ideal compound to lighten and brighten your skin. It’s also an excellent antioxidant that calms inflammation.4
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) gently exfoliate your skin to improve hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Two common examples include lactic acid and glycolic acid. Dermatologists recommend AHA peels to treat dark spots, acne, and melasma.5
Licorice Extract
Licorice extract is more than just a candy flavor — it’s also a soothing skincare treatment. Research has found that licorice extract prevents skin cells from making melanin by blocking an enzyme known as tyrosinase.6,7
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is a popular skincare ingredient that also blocks tyrosinase activity in skin cells. It’s used around the world as a skin-lightening agent that’s effective against dark spots from sun damage, melasma, and acne.8
Retinoids
Retinoids are topical skin treatments derived from vitamin A. One of the most popular retinoids is retinol, which can be found over the counter or prescribed by your doctor. Retinol gently exfoliates the skin and increases cell turnover to reduce dark spots.9,10
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent used to treat dark spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation from inflammation. Like other lightening treatments, hydroquinone prevents skin cells from making melanin by blocking tyrosinase.11 Use caution when applying bleaching agents like hydroquinone, as they can be potent and irritate your skin.
Conclusion
Ready to say goodbye to stubborn dark spots? Choosing the right natural ingredients that block skin pigmentation will give you visible results. Vital Promise’s Dark Spot Remover features kojic acid and vitamin C to lighten and brighten your skin without harsh side effects.