Dark spots, otherwise called hyperpigmentation, refers to a skin disorder that causes patches or all the skin to darken. While it is mainly a cosmetic issue for most people, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

The good news is that there are treatments that can lessen the appearance of dark spots. Some are cosmetic in nature and others are home remedies with anecdotal evidence.

Note: If you decide to attempt some of the remedies listed, there is no guarantee of efficacy.

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

• Sun damage

• Medications such as chemotherapy drugs

• Pregnancy, hormones or a condition called melasma

• Endocrine conditions such as Addison’s

• Skin Trauma

• Insulin resistance

Home Remedies

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

   Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may aid in lightening pigmentation.

   Simply mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, apply to the skin for 2-3 minutes and rinse. Repeat twice a day until you get the result that you are looking for.

2. Aloe Vera

   Aloe vera contains Aloin which may produce results as a hyperpigmentation treatment.

   Apply pure aloe vera gel to dark spots before bed, rinsing off the next morning. Repeat daily until the appearance of dark spots improve.

3. Red Onion

   Many commercially available skin and scar creams will contain Allium Cepa which is made from the dry skin of red onions. Research supports that this ingredient can be an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. Use always as directed.

4. Green Tea Extract

   Green tea extract when used in a skin treatment may be beneficial. For those wanting to try at home, green tea teabags may offer some lightening, however this is not backed by researched.

   To try, steep a green tea teabag in boiling water for 5 minutes and allow the teabag to cool. Once cool, rub the tea bag over your dark patches, repeating twice a day until results are visible.

5. Black Tea Water

   Black tea water produced a successful hyperpigmentation result in guinea pigs in 2011, showing improvement on dark spots.

   To try at home, steep fresh black tea leaves in boiling water for 2 hours and discard the leaves. Soak a cotton ball in the tea water and apply to dark areas twice a day. Repeat 6 days a week for 4 weeks.

6. Licorice Extract

   For dark spots caused by sun exposure, licorice extract may be beneficial and can be found in many commercially available creams. Always used as directed.

7. Milk

   Lactic acid that is found in milk, buttermilk and off milk may be useful in reducing hyperpigmentation.

   Simply soak a cotton ball in the milk and apply it to darkened patches twice a day for as long as is necessary to see results.

8. Tomato Paste

   Because tomato paste is rich in Lycopene, there is evidence that suggests that it may protect against both long and short term effects of sun damaged skin. But don’t worry, this remedy won’t have you painting your face with tomato paste! According to a 2011 study, consumption of 55g of tomato paste and olive oil daily for 12 weeks should be enough to be beneficial.

9. Orchid Extract

   Research indicates that orchid extracts are as beneficial as Vitamin C in relieving hyperpigmentation. Products such as creams and masks are available commercially and should be used as directed for best results.

10. Red Lentils

    Lentils are rich in antioxidants and are said to be very beneficial in treating dark spots when used in a red lentil mask. There is no research that supports the claim, but users swear by them. Plus, at very least, we know that antioxidants are great for skin.

    To try, you will need to begin by soaking 50g of red lentils in water overnight and then blending to create a fine paste. Apply the paste and leave it for 20 minutes before rinsing it off.

Cosmetic Treatments

1. Chemical Peels

2. Microdermabrasion

3. IPL (Intense pulsed light) therapy

4. Laser resurfacing

5. Cryotherapy

Specialised Products

CQ Skin uses and recommends Ultraceuticals products to treat a wide range of skin conditions.

The Ultra Brightening range targets hyperpigmentation through brightening and exfoliation and works best when paired with a suitable protective daily moisturiser to prevent further sun damage to the skin.

Order online or shop in-clinic with Afterpay and Zip!

If you are concerned about dark spots or hyperpigmentation, you should ensure that you book an appointment with your doctor to discuss any underlying medical conditions.