Welcome back to the Skin 2000 Journal!
As an esthetician, I understand the frustration of stubborn dark spots—what the pros call Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, or PIH. We all crave that magic, overnight fix for clearer skin, but chasing quick wins often leads to spinning our wheels.
The truth? Real, lasting results come from understanding that your skin’s healing process is a journey, not a sprint. It’s about a gentler, more mindful approach, building resilience, and supporting what your skin truly needs to thrive.
Today, we’re cutting through the noise with a science-backed routine that actually works. Whether you prefer to listen or watch, prepare for “aha” moments that will transform your skin. It’s time to stop fighting your skin and become a partner in its natural healing process!
Prefer to Listen on the Go?
Learn More About Building a Routine to Fade Dark Spots
Key Moments & Takeaways
In our latest deep dive, we unpack:
Hands Off! Picking or scratching at a pimple or bug bite causes inflammation, which triggers more melanin production. The more you agitate your skin, the worse the discoloration will become.
Use Gentle Exfoliants: To safely speed up cell turnover, use chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic or lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid). Avoid harsh physical scrubs, which can cause micro-tears and lead to more dark spots.
Build a Strong Foundation: Use antioxidants like Vitamin C and niacinamide to protect your skin from free radicals that cause inflammation. Always follow with a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin calm and hydrated.
Never Skip Sunscreen: Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. UV rays can darken existing spots and trigger new ones. Look for a product with multi-tasking ingredients like zinc oxide, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid.
Be Patient: There is no magic bullet for PIH. Consistency is the real secret. Fading dark spots is a journey that requires patience and a steady, strategic routine.