Glycolic acid is highly effective in reducing dark spots and treating hyperpigmentation. It works by promoting the shedding of pigmented cells and encouraging the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin cells. This process helps to lighten dark spots and improve the uniformity of the skin's tone.
After about a month, you should notice clearer skin as glycolic acid works to keep skin clean and decongested. Two months in, you should see that dark spots and pigmentation is reduced as the regular glycolic acid application is melting away old, dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover.
If you want to try an over-the-counter fade cream, choose one that contains hydroquinone, glycolic acid or kojic acid. Some products, especially those that contain hydroquinone, may cause skin irritation. You could also apply makeup to help make age spots less noticeable.
Answer: Hyperpigmentation on the legs Glycolic peels can be used on the legs but in terms of efficacy, I would not recommend them.
If you want to get rid of dark spots fast, a procedure that removes layers of discolored skin may work better than a lightening cream. These techniques include laser treatments, freezing (cryotherapy), dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and chemical peels.
Conclusions. A thorough systemic examination should be performed in patients presenting with hyperpigmentation of the skin. It should be investigated for a deficiency of vitamin B12, besides ruling out the other common causes.
“Those with darker skin tones, need to be cautious with glycolic acid,” warns Dr Buldeo. “It can cause a paradoxical darkening of the skin by stimulating melanocytes,” These are the melanin-producing cells in your skin's deepest layer so this can lead to hyperpigmentation in black skin.
Active Ingredients can Help Too! Beta hydroxy acids such as Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid can reduce the symptoms of strawberry legs.
They're generally left on overnight. Glycolic acid peels often come in the form of a single-use pad that can be applied before bed. These formulas are crucial to any skincare routine because they exfoliate the skin and help to remove dead skin cells that contribute to duller-looking skin and acne or blemish formation.
Apply fresh lemon juice, baking soda paste, or aloe vera gel to the spots 2-3 times a day. The natural bleaching properties can help lighten spots quickly. Stay consistent, and for safety, do the patch test first.
Glycolic acid
One chemical exfoliant that Dr. Pierre recommends for dark spots is glycolic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps dissolve and shed the "glue" between dead, discolored skin cells, leaving you with a clearer, brighter, all-around glowier face.
L'Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright Anti-Dark Spot Brightening serum is clinically proven to reduce 77%* of spots, sunspots, age spots, and acne marks. The serum offers instant brightening results. In 1 week: Dark spots start to fade. Skin clarity is improved for visibly more radiant skin.
But there isn't enough reliable information to know if glycolic acid is safe to use by mouth. Stay on the safe side and stick to topical products. Sensitive skin: Glycolic acid can cause skin irritation and make certain skin conditions worse. Use cautiously in people with sensitive skin.
Signs that glycolic acid is working include smoother skin texture, fewer breakouts, and a more even skin tone. Some people may also notice a light tingling sensation on application, which is normal.
It can be used for keratosis pilaris (aka chicken skin or strawberry skin) sometimes found on the back of legs, thighs and arms. In extreme cases, even on the face. Glycolic Acid will help to remove old and dead skin cells that clog the pores and help smooth and improve the appearance of skin.
Everyday usage is acceptable while using a rinse-off product, like a cleanser with glycolic acid. But, while using a leave-on glycolic acid product (such as a serum, gel, cream, mask, or peel), one should only apply it one to three times per week.
Glycolic acid can be an effective ingredient for reducing hyperpigmentation. However, strong or irritating skin care products can also cause hyperpigmentation. It is especially important for people who are prone to hyperpigmentation to use nonirritating, gentle exfoliants.
6. Always moisturize after use. Glycolic acid exfoliates and hydrates the skin, but it can irritate or dry out sensitive skin. Always follow your glycolic acid application with an additional light moisturizer to reduce the effects of dryness and irritation on the skin.
Glycolic acid can cause irritation and redness if you have sensitive skin or overuse the product. Since glycolic acid can make your skin sensitive to the sun, remember to wear sunscreen and consider using glycolic acid at night.
Hydroquinone Cream: A skin-lightening agent that helps to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Retinoids (Retinol): Promote cell turnover and help fade dark spots over time. Vitamin C Serum: Known for its brightening properties, vitamin C can help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
Hyperpigmentation is an early and reversible sign of vitamin B 12 deficiency, which must be promptly recognised and corrected. The cause of B12 deficiency must be identified and additionally treated.
Vitamin B12deficiency symptoms may include: strange sensations, numbness, or tingling in the hands, legs, or feet. difficulty walking (staggering, balance problems) anemia.