Dark skin blotches are embarrassing and look ugly. They generally appear on the face and body in the form of discoloration. In most cases, these spots appear due to the presence of melanin, i.e. the pigment responsible for skin color.
You might be surprised to know that these dark blotches become more prominent as you age. In fact, you can expect to face problems with these spots in your 40s.
This embarrassing condition is sometimes hard to tell apart. This blog will discuss the causes, treatment, and prevention of these blotches. The post will also help you determine if your blotches need medical attention.
Table of Contents
What Are Blotches
Blotches are uneven tones that appear on the skin. They can be dark, red, or brown in color and usually appear as a large patch of discolored skin.
Blotches can occur anywhere on your body, but they are most common on the face, leg, neck, and other parts of the body. They typically appear as small red spots that turn into larger patches over time.
What Are The Causes Of Dark Blotches On The Face
Dark blotches on the face are caused by a variety of factors, such as hormonal changes, severe sunburns, stress, overexposure to the sun, and other environmental factors.
Hormonal changes can cause blotches on the face. Hormones can have a direct impact on the skin’s pigmentation, resulting in discoloration.
For example, during pregnancy and menopause, estrogen levels rise which leads to an increase in melanin production and thus a darkening of skin areas like the cheeks or nose due to increased melanin production.
Sunburns can cause blotches on your face if you’re not careful while out in the sun. If you’re at risk of developing skin cancer or just want to prevent it from happening in the first place, be sure to wear sunscreen every day when you head outside.
Stress is another contributing factor that can cause blotches on your face. Stress causes your body to release hormones that can contribute to pigment-related issues such as hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation (redness).
Skin conditions like eczema, hives, psoriasis, and Rosacea can also be major causes. According to research, about 84 percent of the U.S population battles different skin conditions. Some of these conditions result in blotchy skin.
The Symptoms Of Dark Blotches On The Face
The symptoms of dark blotches on the face include:
- Red discoloration that appears on the skin, usually around the cheeks, nose, and forehead
- Irritated skin
- Sensitivity to the sun
- Sunburn
Dark blotches on the face are not a pleasant sight and can sometimes be an indication of more serious health problems. Dark spots on the face can be caused by several different conditions, including rosacea, melasma, and sun damage.
Dark blotches of any kind are an indicator that you should take an action or seek treatment for your skin; however, if you notice dark blotches on your face that seem to be getting worse or spreading further, it may be time to see a doctor.
Treatments
Dark blotches are not just unsightly, but they can also be embarrassing if you don’t know how to treat them properly. The first step is to find out what caused your dark patches in the first place. Why are they so noticeable? Are they still there after washing your face? If so, what causes them to reappear?
Once you have figured out what’s causing it, it’s time to start treating them. Here’s how
Apply Moisturizer
First thing’s first, try using a moisturizer infused with active ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, vitamin C , and ferulic acids . This ingredients in the moisturizer will help protect your skin from further damage and help prevent future inflammation and redness Also consider moisturizer with SPF 20 or higher. This will help protect your skin from further sun damages.
Don’t Forget Chemical Peels
Next, try exfoliating with chemical peels (if necessary) to remove dead skin cells and dark spots from your face. Most skincare products formulated with lactic acid, salyclic acid, and glycolic acid. This ingredients are commonly used in the treatment of blotchy skin and hyperpigmentation.
Exfoliating once a week is essential for having smooth and glowing skin. It deep cleanses pores and removes dirt and debris trapped inside them which causes discoloration on your skin surface resulting in dark spots on face.
Use Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is an invasive procedure used to renew overall skin tone and texture. It can improve the appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, blotches on the face, age spots, melasma, and other skin-related concerns and conditions.
Home Remedies For Dark Blotches On Face
Dark spots on your face can be frustrating, especially when you want to keep your skin looking flawless. But these natural remedies for dark blotches on the face can help you get rid of those unsightly spots and keep them from coming back.
Here are some home remedies that will help you with dark spots on your face, including ways to treat them at home.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective remedy for treating dark spots that occur on the face. It can help to lighten the color of brown spots and reduce their appearance, as well as fade existing ones.
All you need is one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and use it as a toner by dabbing it onto areas that need attention. Leave it on for 15 minutes then rinse off with warm water or wipe away with a cotton ball or gauze pad soaked in warm water
Pure Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is packed with antioxidants like vitamin E and C to help combat dark spots and hyperpigmentations.Take one teaspoon of aloe vera gel in a small bowl and add two tablespoons of water.
Stir well until the mixture becomes smooth. Apply this mixture on your face for some seconds. Rinse off with lukewarm water after 15 minutes. Pat dry with a towel, and then apply moisturizer to lock in moisture.
Yogurt
Another naturally skin-brightening item you may already have in your home is yogurt, which may work to fade dark spots by exfoliating the skin.
Mix 1 tablespoon of yogurt with 1/2 teaspoon of oatmeal and apply it on your skin for 15 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water. You can also mix 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt with 1 teaspoon of honey and apply it on your face daily for 3 days to see results in just 3 days.
Use Coconut Oil
Apply a light layer of coconut oil to your face as an overnight mask. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes then rinse off with warm water. You can also use this for other areas of the body such as elbows, knees, etc.
Conclusion
Dark blotches can be due to many reasons, It is always a good idea to see your doctor for any problem regarding your skin. He / She will further be able to guide you with regards to specific treatment that can be done if the blotch has not been caused by a skin disease or any other underlying medical condition.
If it is medically safe, using of cream or other topical medication can be tried before considering laser surgery.
