Ask A Skin Doctor: Acne Dark Marks
Dear Doctor
Pls suggest me cream with combination of sunscreen and reduction of dark marks.
am using suncros which produce more oil…my skin is very oily acne prone.
i consulted dermatologist. used many creams…pls suggest me good one and budget friendly.
Dear Patient
The first step in treating acne dark marks that develop from acne (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PIH) is to ensure that the acne is well controlled.
Acne Dark Marks Treatment
After controlling the acne, I suggest that you use:
1. SPF 30 Sunscreen
Broad spectrum sunscreens that offer protection from UVA and UVB rays and that have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or above should be used every day. Sunscreens prevent the tanning of the hyperpigmented patches since this increases their fading time.
2. Skin Brighteners
Skin brighteners or skin lighteners can be used but only if suncreens are used religiously. Examples of skin brighteners include:
a. Vitamin C or ascorbic acid which is found in products like Olay Total Effects tone correcting night moisturizer and Neutrogena dark spot corrector.
b. Vitamin B3 or niacinamide which is found in products like Olay Total Effects tone correcting night moisturizer.
c. Licorice extract which is found in the Dark Spot Corrector Kit.
3. Retinols
Retinols increase the turnover of skin cells and they are found in products like the Dark Spot Corrector Kit and Neutrogena dark spot corrector.
4. Mild Chemical Peels
Mild or superficial chemical peels like 30% Glycolic acid peels can be bought over the counter and used monthly for 8 to 10 months.
5. Camouflage Therapy
Camouflage cosmetics can also be used to cover up post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Examples include the Smart Cover-up Starter Kit and the Dermablend Cover Cream.
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