Vitamin C-based skin care products may lighten patches that are darker than the rest of your skin, called hyperpigmentation. In one study, vitamin C applied to the skin for 16 weeks significantly cut down on these spots.
Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin. Vitamin B12 also promotes collagen formation while supporting the growth of new skin cells.
The hyperpigmentation related to vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in darker-skinned patients. Few other cases of skin hyperpigmentation due to vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in the literature.
Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) is especially fantastic at treating age spots on the face because it depigments or reduces melanin on the skin—thereby removing dark spots.
The Ingredient: Vitamin C
When Youll See Results: Once you add vitamin C to your skincare regimen, you may start seeing noticeable improvements in three weeks. It can help significantly fade hyperpigmentation in about two months.
Age spots are caused by overactive pigment cells. Ultraviolet (UV) light speeds up the production of melanin, a natural pigment that gives skin its color. On skin that has had years of sun exposure, age spots appear when melanin becomes clumped or is produced in high concentrations.
Further, vitamin C can reduce the appearance of dark spots by blocking the production of pigment in our skin.
Niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3) is an antioxidant vitamin and an essential nutrient your skin needs. It's safe for sensitive skin and incredibly effective on dark spots, because it enhances cell turnover to reduce the appearance of dark spots.
It is a brown pigment that generally increases with age, and its formation is increased by consumption of unsaturated fats, by vitamin E deficiency, by stress, and by exposure to excess estrogen."
Subsequently, the patient had been receiving a MVI tablet daily containing Vitamin B12 (1 mg) and showed improvement in his presentation [Figure 4]. Usually, hyperpigmentation resolves within 3 months of initiation of treatment, in about 87% of such patients.
So far, the research hints at a correlation between melasma and vitamin D deficiency, but research has yet to conclude that the vitamin D deficiency causes melasma. Excess sun exposure does seem to play a role.
Evidence has suggested that hyperpigmentation can occur as a result of iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency.
Some of the most effective active ingredients to treat dark spots are acids — like tranexamic, glycolic and kojic acids. “Retinoids can also treat dark spots by accelerating cell turnover,” he adds.
Apple cider vinegar for dark spots
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that may help lighten skin pigmentation and improve the overall appearance of your skin. To use this remedy you need to mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl. Apply to your dark patches and leave on 5 to 7 minutes.
Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years.
4 weeks is usually the golden rule for beginning to see changes - it's allowed your skin to go through at least one renewal cycle with this skin-changing ingredient. At this point, your skin should have a subtle change in radiance, which is something you'll notice will stick around as long as you keep using Vitamin C.
Increasing consumption of vitamin A, D, zinc, and vitamin E can help fight acne and lead to clearer skin. For more tips on acne treatment and supplements, consult a dermatologist or pharmacist for more information.
Melasma is often associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is common in: Pregnant women. Women taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives)
Lemon is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It may help to lighten up the dark spots on your skin. However, lemon juice may cause an allergic reaction when you apply it to your skin as it is acidic. Hence you can use lemon juice with other mediators such as yoghurt and honey.
People with iron deficiency anemia may experience itchy skin (pruritis) that can become red, bumpy and sore when scratched. Rashes associated with aplastic anemia usually appear as tiny red or purple dots under your skin (petechiae). The dots can form large patches but aren't usually itchy or painful.