The body is a major area of exposure to sun damage. As a result, it can often develop dark spots on its surface that are referred to as hyperpigmentation. While they are usually harmless, they can still cause cosmetic problems if left untreated.
If you are dealing with dark spots on the body, there are several options to get rid of them. These include home remedies and medical procedures, which a dermatologist can prescribe.
1. Exfoliate regularly – You want to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, which can lead to darker spots forming on your body. A daily facial or body exfoliator with glycolic acid will help you achieve this goal, and we recommend using it twice a day, to give your skin the extra boost it needs to fight off brown spots.
2. Use an antioxidant serum – Antioxidants prevent the free radicals from damaging your skin and causing discoloration. You can find plenty of antioxidant-packed serums on the market, but vitamin C is one of the most popular, with studies showing it helps reduce the appearance of dark spots.
3. Drink plenty of water – The skin on your body is more exposed to the sun than it is your face, so it needs lots of hydration. We recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water each day, as this will keep your skin hydrated and clear.
4. Use a moisturizer with vitamin E and B12 – These vitamins are known for their antioxidant and firming effects, which can help reduce the appearance of dark spots on your body.
5. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day – This is essential to preventing dark spots on your body from developing, as they are often caused by the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.
6. Wear hats and gloves – This will also protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun.
7. Stop using irritants – If your skin is suffering from hyperpigmentation, it’s important to avoid products that could exacerbate the problem. For example, you shouldn’t use soaps, abrasives, or other harsh scrubs as they can actually worsen your condition.
8. Visit a dermatologist – It is always a good idea to have your skin checked by a doctor regularly, especially if you have unusual changes in your skin. A dermatologist will be able to determine the causes of any spots and suggest an effective treatment that will improve your skin tone.
9. Try hydroquinone – If your dark spots are too stubborn to go away on their own, talk to your doctor about using a skin lightening product with this ingredient. Dermatologists consider hydroquinone to be the gold standard for fading hyperpigmentation, because it slows the production of melanin.
It is also a good idea to have your doctor perform an annual exam on the areas of your body that are affected by dark spots to ensure that any other conditions aren’t the cause. If you do notice a change in the color of your skin, make sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor, as these changes can be signs of skin cancer.
