Acne blemishes leave dark Spots on your skin even after they have healed. It is frustrating, but it is not uncommon.
Understanding what causes these black dot on your skin is the first step toward getting rid of them.
The cells sent to help restore your skin’s smooth surface may contain too much melanin when a pimple appears on your skin.
A darker skin patch occurs when certain cells have more melanin than others. Hyperpigmentation caused by inflammation is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Picking or squeezing a blemish can increase your chances of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Darker skin tones are more prone to this condition. Please continue reading to find out how to treat those post-pimple black dot and prevent them in the future.
Scars vs dark spots
Black dot from acne can be treated differently than acne scars. Scars occur when the tissue gets damaged or overgrown. Scars are difficult to remove, and although they may fade over time, they usually remain visible.
Acne spots, on the other hand, are flat against the surface of your skin. They don’t indicate long-term damage to your pores, skin cells, or follicles.
As time passes, black dot become lighter and eventually vanish completely. It can take anywhere from 3 months to 2 years to complete.
The good news is that you don’t have to wait forever for your black dot to fade. You can try plenty of home remedies, over-the-counter products, and even dermatology treatments.
Remedy at home
It’s possible to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with home remedies. Unfortunately, many of these remedies have only anecdotal evidence to back them up. Still, trying them isn’t harmful.
C vitamin
Vitamin C, found in lemon juice, is an effective depigmenting agent that reduces melanin production.
The aloe vera plant
Many online users recommend using aloe vera to heal black dot from acne. Aloe is a remarkable healing agent, especially regarding the skin.
Aloe has been found to stabilize melanin levels in cells, but more research is needed to determine its limits.
Extract of grapeseed
Another natural product that may help lighten black dot is grapeseed extract.
There are no studies on the topical use of grapeseed extract for this purpose. In one study, grapeseed extract, similar to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, was found beneficial for people with melasma, a skin condition related to inflammation.
Protection from the sun
Researchers recommend wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, regardless of whether it is overcast or humid, to prevent more skin damage.
Product types
You can also try over-the-counter treatments for dark spots if home remedies don’t work. The effective ingredients in these products vary, but some have been proven to work better than others.
Some products carry a risk of removing too much pigment from your skin, resulting in hypopigmentation since these ingredients stop the production of melanin in dark spots.
To get rid of dark spots caused by acne, consult your dermatologist before using OTC products.
After receiving your doctor’s approval, look for products that contain a combination of the following ingredients:
Treatments using retinoids (vitamin A) and vitamin E (tocopherol), and alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), such as
- mandelic acid
- kojic acid
- azelaic acid.
After using OTC treatments, consider looking into dermatologist-only treatments. Health insurance doesn’t typically cover dark spot treatments because post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation isn’t dangerous.
As you consider this treatment, keep in mind that most, if not all, of the costs, will be yours.
Peelings with chemicals
A chemical peel removes damaged skin cells and reveals younger-looking skin beneath. Costs can vary but expect to pay $700 or more for a chemical peel.
The chemical peeling process involves applying a strong solution of different topical acids to your face, which is then removed, removing layers of skin cells.
The microdermabrasion procedure
In microdermabrasion, tiny particles are blasted at certain areas of your skin, or a diamond-tipped tool is rubbed over your skin.
Addition to buffing away imperfections, microdermabrasion leaves your skin smooth and evenly toned.
Addition to treating dark spots caused by acne, it is considered a low-risk and minimally invasive procedure.
Resurfacing with lasers
A laser treatment called laser skin resurfacing removes dead skin from the body while stimulating new cells to grow in the deeper layers of the skin. Lasers can also be used to treat acne scars and dark spots.
You can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 per treatment depending on the type of lasers used and how many rounds you need.
Here’s a word of caution
Use caution when using products that claim to treat acne-related dark spots.
Among other things, some of these products contain powerful retinol ingredients. These ingredients work by thinning out layers of your skin. The result may be smoother, more even-toned skin, but it leaves you more vulnerable to sun damage.
As part of your beauty routine, apply sunscreen every day.
Moreover, it’s important to remember that not all cosmetic products are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Be especially cautious when buying international cosmetics or buying them online.
Some cosmetics contain ingredients such as mercury, even though they are not disclosed on the label. Shop only from vendors you trust, and use your discretion.
The right time to see a doctor
Consult your healthcare provider if you frequently develop dark spots or if their appearance affects your daily life.
Using Healthline’s FindCare tool, you can find dermatologists in your area if you’re concerned about dark spots.
Creating a treatment plan with your dermatologist gives you a realistic perspective on black dot caused by pimples.
Bottom line
Your body can produce too much melanin as your skin heals, resulting in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as dark spots.
Dark spots from acne can fade quickly with home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and dermatologist treatments. Speak to your doctor if you’re concerned.
