Some hyperpigmentation will actually fade away over time, even without treatment. If patience is not your virtue, some of the following ingredients have proven to fade dark spots.
Hydroquinone – this is a skin lightening ingredient found in many over- the- counter products. It is available in 1% and 2% strength creams, and in prescription strength of 3% and 4% creams. Hydroquinone blocks the melanin enzyme production and the result is skin lightening.
Glycolic Acid – Also known as AHA’s or fruit acid. Glycolic acid is used to exfoliate the skin quickly and increase cell turn over time. There
is a lot of debate regarding AHA’s in regards to their effects on the skin over time. Some people with sensitive skin find this product to be an extreme irritant. Usually, acenic skin has the best results. Make sure you test the product
on your inner arm for sensitivity and follow the advice of your physician or esthetician.
Tretinoin and Tazarotene – known as retinoids, are prescribed by physicians, usually to acne patients. They speed up the cell turnover rates and exfoliate the skin so the dark spots will gradually fade away. Other retinoid creams are Retin-A, Differin and Tazorac. Some retinoids cause dryness or irritation which could actually cause more hyperpigmentation. Make sure you let your physician know immediately if you experience any adverse side effects. For acne sufferers, retinoids may actually help control outbreaks.
How do I remove facial hair?
Facial hair continues to be a nuisance for many women, especially on the upper lip and chin areas. I’ll share some temporary and permanent methods of removing hair that may be helpful.
Depilatory Cream
A fairly inexpensive method to remove facial hair is a depilatory cream. The cream provides temporary hair removal and is easily removed. The depilatory cream works by dissolving the hair chemically just below the skins surface.
.Dark & Hairy continued
Waxing
Another popular and effective method is waxing (sugaring is very similar). This process may be a little “painful”, but lasts longer than a depilatory cream. Results may last four to six weeks. Your skin may be red and irritated for a couple of days, but don’t despair. Apply a cold compress and you should be as good as new.
Shaving
I truly do not endorse this method for the face. Hair growth can be stimulated, and the hair may grow back faster and thicker. The end result… your upper lip will look like Geraldo Rivera’s (no offense). So let’s just say, this is a mention.
Tweezing
Pluck one, pluck two, an ouch and an oooh. I’ll leave this one totally up to you!
Electrolysis
This process removes hair permanently by means of electricity. An electrologist is a licensed person trained to give treatments for permanent hair removal. A small current is passed through a needle to the hair follicle and presto, destroys the hair growth. Due to distorted follicles, sometimes caused by tweezing, waxing, or natural causes, several treatments may be needed.
Laser Hair Removal
DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Laser hair removal on darker ethnic skin will have devastating results if not done properly. The darker the skin, more sessions may be needed and there is a greater chance of an adverse result. Make sure you research the qualifications of the Medical Director of the facility. Check to see if he or she is Board Certified in Dermatology, and find out who will be performing the procedure and their qualifications. There are special lasers that need to be used on African American skin according to skin type. Do research and find out requirements for laser hair removal in your state.
Remember: If you find yourself in a dark, hairy spot and tripping over the bumps, you can AHA, wax or Retin-A your way to a brighter day.