Azelaic acid This lesser-known ingredient is one of the top dermatologist-recommended treatments for facial dark spots.
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.
Q: Which ingredient works the fastest for dark spots? A: Hydroquinone (available by prescription) is one of the most potent options, but retinol, vitamin C, and glycolic acid also deliver visible results with consistent use.
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.
2. Hydroquinone. When it comes to dark spot treatments, hydroquinone has been the gold standard for more than 50 years. You can find this ingredient over the counter in concentrations of 2% or less, and you can also get prescription versions, which have 4% or greater.
Hydroquinone is a prescription skin-lightening treatment for dark spots and discoloration. In the U.S., only prescription hydroquinone products are approved for safe use.
Some people find that topical retinol lightens their skin spots, though it takes months and can be irritating to your skin. It's a good idea to see a dermatologist (a medical doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin) if you're concerned about dark spots.
A trichloroacetic (TCA) peel is one of the strongest chemical peels available for tackling hyperpigmentation. It provides deep penetration into the deeper layers of your skin for intense cell renewal treatment.
For dark circles and dark spots: Use a peach color corrector if you have fair skin, or a deeper orange shade if you have medium to dark skin. For sallowness: Balance out unwanted warmth with a lavender color corrector.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is known to treat dark spots for ages. It works by reducing an enzyme called tyrosinase, which helps in the production of melanin. So, if there is less tyrosinase produced, there will be less melanin as well. The effects of hydroquinone can appear in 2 weeks.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the most effective non-surgical method to improve the appearance of your skin overall and hyperpigmentation specifically. It uses highly specialized lasers to remove dead and damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production.
Niacinamide helps reduce inflammation and sebum production, which can prevent future discoloration from occurring. If you're looking for a natural way to reduce dark spots, Niacinamide is one of the best dark spot ingredients to try.
Hydroquinone. Topical HQ is regarded as the gold standard for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation. HQ is a bleaching agent that acts by inhibiting tyrosinase to limit melanin production in the skin.
It works by breaking down the excess melanin in the age spots and gradually reducing their appearance. So, when used properly and in appropriate concentrations, hydrogen peroxide can be an effective and affordable option to remove age spots on the face.
Dr. Zainab Laftah, Consultant Dermatologist, GetHarley Clinician concurs: “Toothpaste might sound like a simple solution to treat spots but it's likely to cause more harm than good. Toothpaste contains ingredients that can result in skin redness, itching, inflammation and burning," so approach with caution.
How Long Does Turmeric Take To Lighten Skin? Turmeric can provide an instant natural glow to your skin. But to lighten your skin tone, it may take more than three to four weeks of consistent usage. Turmeric is an age-old remedy to address a plethora of skin issues.