20% off comforting favorites. code: JOYFUL | DETAILS

Your cart

Your cart is empty

Seeing spots? How to fade your dark spots this fall

Seeing spots? How to fade your dark spots this fall

Dark spots, age spots, liver spots – call them what you will, they all point to one thing: hyperpigmentation. While the appearance of spots can be frustrating, understanding their causes can be the first step toward effective prevention and treatment.

Sun exposure, hormonal shifts and skin inflammation all play significant roles in developing these unwelcomed marks. Fall is a great time to get serious about treating them, especially after a summer of sun. The cooler, less UV-intense days are perfect for focusing on skin recovery.

What causes hyperpigmentation + dark spots? 

When it comes to radiant skin, the sun often gets a bad rap – for good reason. While we all crave that enviable sun-kissed glow, too much exposure to UV rays can lead to more trouble than you might expect.

“Sun exposure is a primary culprit of hyperpigmentation,” explains Debbie Jones, esthetician and Bioelements Esthetics Insight Circle member. “When your skin encounters harmful UVA and UVB rays, it goes into protective mode. This defense mechanism involves ramping up melanin production – the pigment responsible for your skin’s color. However, this surge in melanin can sometimes lead to uneven patches, ranging in color from brown to subtle gray, red or pink.”

Don’t be fooled into thinking the sun is the only offender. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can also disrupt melanin production, resulting in those unwanted spots.

Additionally, any trauma to the skin, whether from an injury or inflammation, can trigger what’s known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This type of pigmentation appears as dark spots after the initial injury or inflammation has healed.

Is hyperpigmentation preventable? 

Great news: yes! (well, most of the time.) So long as your hyperpigmentation isn’t caused by genetics, there are many ways to prevent these spots from forming on your face. If genetics are at play, it’s not impossible but trickier to keep spots at bay. There are several expert-approved steps you can take to reduce the risk of seeing spots:

  • Be sunscreen savvy: Prolonged unprotected sun exposure can trigger and worsen hyperpigmentation. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher and avoid being in direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Reapply every two hours, and don’t forget those often-overlooked spots – your ears and neck need sun protection too!
  • Wear protective clothing: Shield your skin from damaging sun rays with protective clothing – like long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. These barriers help minimize direct UV exposure and further safeguard your complexion.
  • Limit sun exposure: While enjoying the sun is tempting, moderation is key. Avoid peak sun hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest. Remember, even on cloudy days or when indoors, UV rays can still sneak through, so keep up with that sunscreen!
  • Avoid picking spots: It’s so tempting to reach for those spots, but resist the urge! Our hands and nails can harbor bacteria and dirt that can exacerbate skin issues. Picking at your skin not only increases the risk of scarring but can also lead to further pigmentation problems. Instead, treat your skin gently and let your products do the work.

What ingredients + formulas can I use to fade dark spots? 

Prioritize natural ingredients over harsh bleaches or chemicals that can irritate your skin. Look for products containing beneficial components to help target dark spots effectively. Try these expert-recommended ingredients the next time you’re looking for a spot treatment:

  • Niacinamide: a skin-strengthening antioxidant vitamin B3 that helps improve the appearance of environmental damage, problem pores, uneven tone, lines, and dullness.
    Formula to try: kerafole
  • Alpha Arbutin: a functional active ingredient for skin brightening that promotes an even skin tone on all skin types by targeting melanin production.
    Formula to try: lightplex gigawatt dark spot corrector
  • Ascorbyl Glucoside: a highly stabilized Vitamin C derivative with a prolonged release period to target melanin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and roughness.
    Formula to try: vc10 nightly bright
  • Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate: A stable sodium salt of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) helps brighten skin by targeting melanin + damaging free radicals. Improves intensity of age spots and helps to increase the feel of firmness.
    Formula to try: vc10 daily glow

Wondering when you’ll start seeing results? Dark spots are a form of skin damage, and their reversal takes time. Typically, spots a few shades darker than your natural skin tone can begin to fade within 6 to 12 months. However, if the discoloration is deeper – often appearing slate blue or gray – fading can take years. 

“Regular microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help accelerate the healing process by removing dead skin cells and revealing fresh, new skin,” says Jones. “Consistent exfoliation is key – aim for an additional 2-3 times per week at home.”

Spots, albeit annoying, are typically harmless and nothing to worry about. However, if you notice a spot is black, increasing in size, has an irregular border, an unusual combination of colors, or is bleeding, it’s advised to have a doctor check it out to ensure there are no serious issues. 

Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/age-spots/symptoms-causes/syc-20355859

https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/fade-dark-spots#:~:text=Once%20what's%20causing%20the%20dark,however%2C%20fading%20can%20take%20years.

Previous post
Next post

Peel Breaker Sample
Peel Breaker Sample

Added to Bag
In Cart
Pore Thing Sample
Pore Thing Sample

Added to Bag
In Cart
oxygen boost barrier treatment Sample
oxygen boost barrier treatment Sample

Added to Bag
In Cart
Dewluxe for Body Sample
Dewluxe for Body Sample

Added to Bag
In Cart
Time Sensitive Sample
Time Sensitive Sample

retinol-free, multi-benefit serum for delicate skin with bakuchiol, peptides + deep hydrators

Added to Bag
In Cart
Hydroplunge Sample
Hydroplunge Sample

hyper-saturating immersion mask for dehydrated skin with sugar beet + hyaluronic acid

Added to Bag
In Cart
Dewluxe Sample
Dewluxe Sample

facial oil with occlusive argan, squalane + sea kale for dewy hydration

Added to Bag
In Cart
vc10 daily glow Sample
vc10 daily glow Sample

glow-getting serum with triple-sourced antioxidant 10% vitamin C

Added to Bag
In Cart
Urban Undo Cleanser Sample
Urban Undo Cleanser Sample

deep purging copper + clay cleanser to undo pollution, makeup and sebum

Added to Bag
In Cart
Sensitive Skin Cleansing Oil Sample
Sensitive Skin Cleansing Oil Sample

A 2-in-1 makeup remover + cleanser with soothing, reparative plant and olive oils

Added to Bag
In Cart
Barrier Fix Daily Hydrator Sample
Barrier Fix Daily Hydrator Sample

Whipped hyaluronic acid + silver ear mushroom calms reactive skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Quick Refiner Sample
Quick Refiner Sample

Leave-on gel exfoliator with powerful AHAs

Added to Bag
In Cart
Sleepwear Sample
Sleepwear Sample

Overnight creme for dry to combination skin with calcium, retinol + peptides

Added to Bag
In Cart
Plump Start Sample
Plump Start Sample

Antioxidant concentrate to improve fullness and smooth lines

Added to Bag
In Cart
Quick Refiner for Eyes Sample
Quick Refiner for Eyes Sample

Wrinkle-reducing, gentle AHA + lactic acid peel for eyes

Added to Bag
In Cart
Sleepwear for Eyes Sample
Sleepwear for Eyes Sample

Overnight age activist eye creme to moisturize and nourish thin fragile skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Really Rich Moisture Sample
Really Rich Moisture Sample

Ultra-emollient creme moisturizer to saturate very dry skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Moisture x10 Sample
Moisture x10 Sample

Super hydrating hyaluronic acid facial serum

Added to Bag
In Cart
Measured Micrograins + Sample
Measured Micrograins + Sample

Multi-action facial scrub for all skin types, including sensitive

Added to Bag
In Cart
Remineralist Daily Moisture Sample
Remineralist Daily Moisture Sample

A pollution-neutralizing, hydrating lightweight lotion for modern day aging skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Beyond Hydration Sample
Beyond Hydration Sample

Gel moisturizer for oily skin refreshes without shine

Added to Bag
In Cart
Moisture Positive Cleanser Sample
Moisture Positive Cleanser Sample

Rich facial cleanser for dry skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Collagen Rehab Sample
Collagen Rehab Sample

Face + lip mask to rehabilitate aging, lined and exhausted skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Radiance Rescue Sample
Radiance Rescue Sample

Instant-radiance mask for face and eyes

Added to Bag
In Cart
Pumice Peel Sample
Pumice Peel Sample

Manual microdermabrasion treatment in a jar

Added to Bag
In Cart
Age Activist Clinical Youth Serum Sample
Age Activist Clinical Youth Serum Sample

All-in-one youth serum to brighten, hydrate, smooth, minimize pores, improve lines, and firm

Added to Bag
In Cart
Decongestant Cleanser Sample
Decongestant Cleanser Sample

Lathering gel cleanser for oily skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Makeup Dissolver Perfected Sample
Makeup Dissolver Perfected Sample

Non-stinging makeup remover

Added to Bag
In Cart
CreateFirm Sample
CreateFirm Sample

Advanced anti-aging facial serum

Added to Bag
In Cart
Recovery Serum Sample
Recovery Serum Sample

Moisture-binding ceramide facial serum

Added to Bag
In Cart
Skin Editor Sample
Skin Editor Sample

Leave on AHA peel creme to target texture, dullness, congestion, discoloration, lines and more.

Added to Bag
In Cart
Kerafole Sample
Kerafole Sample

Deep purging facial mask that reveals fresh, radiant skin

Added to Bag
In Cart
Crucial Moisture Sample
Crucial Moisture Sample

Emollient creme moisturizer for dry skin to improve the look of lines

Added to Bag
In Cart
Absolute Moisture Sample
Absolute Moisture Sample

Lightweight facial moisturizer for combination skin to balance and smooth

Added to Bag
In Cart
Oil Control Sleepwear Sample
Oil Control Sleepwear Sample

Overnight creme for combination to oily skin with calcium, retinol + peptides

Added to Bag
In Cart