Dark spots are a general term for all sorts of discoloration. From sunspots to acne scars, everyone has experienced a dark spot or two on the face. Fortunately, there are skincare ingredients that can help reduce their appearance, including glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid is considered an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that promotes dead cell skin turnover to effectively exfoliate the skin. In turn, this can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Learn how to add glycolic acid into your skincare routine to achieve radiant, glowing skin with PROVEN.
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What Causes Dark Spots?
Dark spots on your face can be caused by a number of factors. The most common offenders are sun exposure and inflammation. Ultraviolet rays (UV rays) cause melanin production, a natural pigment that gives our skin color. Additionally, long-term exposure without proper sun protection can speed up the appearance of age spots and fine lines. Other common causes of dark spots include [1]:
- Acne – Breakouts can leave behind scars and other marks, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This occurs because our body views acne as a site of infection and inflammation. A similar outcome occurs when you have cuts or burns on your skin.
- Hormonal changes – A hormonal imbalance or fluctuation can cause melasma, a skin condition that causes dark patches. If you’re pregnant or taking an oral contraceptive, you should consult with a board-certified dermatologist to build your skincare routine.
Fortunately, glycolic acid can help combat dark spots caused by these issues. Its molecules are small enough to penetrate deep into our skin to protect us from photo-damage and increase the absorption of skin-loving ingredients [2]. The result? Beautiful, glowing skin that brings out your natural luminosity.
How Does Glycolic Acid Work To Fade Dark Spots?
As mentioned earlier, glycolic acid is a naturally derived AHA and works as an exfoliant to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells [3]. Regular exfoliation is important in skincare because it unclogs your pores from debris. A gentle cleanser will manage the day-to-day cleaning, but chemical exfoliation can give your skin an extra boost. That’s why glycolic acid is good for acne as it can keep our skin clear.
This helps reveal brighter, more even-toned, and smoother skin beneath. Glycolic acid also helps to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots by lightening and evening out discoloration [4]. It’s a popular ingredient in many skincare products and can be found in cleansers and night creams.
In addition to exfoliation, glycolic acid also encourages collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that helps to keep the skin firm and plump, and its production can help to further diminish the appearance of dark spots [5].
How Long Does It Take For Glycolic Acid To Fade Dark Spots?
Typically, you can expect to see noticeable results from glycolic acid in a few weeks to a couple of months. But this timeline is not set in stone and can vary based on factors such as the severity of the hyperpigmentation, the concentration of glycolic acid used, and how frequently you apply it. It's important to keep in mind that consistent use of glycolic acid is crucial to achieving the desired results. Starting with a lower concentration and gradually working your way up can help avoid irritation and damage to your skin.
How To Add Glycolic Acid Into Your Skincare Routine
When you’re learning how to use glycolic acid, it’s important to start with a lower concentration. Typically, glycolic acid comes in the form of a toner, serum, or face mask. You should begin with a patch test as a precaution. If your skin doesn’t turn red or itchy, then it’s safe to use.
We recommend using it twice a week in your skincare routine to monitor your skin’s reaction. It’s effective as an all-over treatment, so apply a thin layer after cleansing. Make sure to follow up with a daily moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from sun damage.
Alternatively, you can use it as a spot treatment to accurately target dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Gently press on the area of concern with a soaked cotton pad or cotton swab. Hold for 20-30 seconds and let the product sink into your skin for 10-15 more minutes.
If all of these steps sound tedious, then we have the solution for you. Take our Skincare Quiz that’s powered by AI technology to make a personalized 3-step skincare set that accurately targets your skin concerns. We take important elements like air pollution, lifestyle habits, and environment changes that can impact your skin’s health.
Say Goodbye To Dark Spots With PROVEN Skincare
Dark spots and hyperpigmentation are common skin issues that occur due to overexposure of UV rays, acne, and other lifestyle factors. Luckily, there are a number of treatments and skincare ingredients, like glycolic acid, to help fade them and reveal a healthier, more even skin tone. Creating a personalized skincare routine to target them is the first place to start. That’s where PROVEN Skincare comes in.
With the help of AI technology and dermatologists, we help provide a custom skincare kit formulated just for you and your skin’s concerns and needs, featuring key skincare ingredients such as glycolic acid. Ready for a brighter complexion? Try it today for your skin’s best results yet!
