There are several methods of lightening dark skin spots. However, anyone with hyper pigmented spots on
the skin should first have them checked by their dermatologist to rule out either precancer or skin cancer.
This can sometimes be done by a simple visual examination. Or, it may require a skin biopsy. If the
darkened skin areas are deemed to be benign, one or more of the following methods may be used
to lighten them.
A topical (i.e., applied from the outside to the skin) medication called hydroquinone, sometimes
combined with a vitamin A derivative called tretinoin is one of the most effective, noninvasive
methods of lightning dark skin spots.
Other methods include the application of intense pulsed light and various types of lasers,
chemical peels (especially those containing trichloroacetic acid or glycolic acid). These
peels can also help eliminate fine lines and wrinkling caused by sun exposure and/or aging of the skin.
In addition, products containing azelaic acid, which is component of grains such as barley, rye
and wheat, and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can also have a skin lightening effect.
One can also consider the use of an old remedy, lemon juice which contains citric acid and
has been used as a skin lightener for a long time.
However, one must be very careful with the application time when applying lemon juice
to the skin since it can dry out the skin and is a potent photosensitizer that can cause sunburn
when exposed to the sun.
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