How to remove dark spots and acne marks: a routine that works

Dark spots and acne marks are one of the most common skin concerns in Pakistan. The good news: most of them fade with the right routine. The bad news: without sunscreen, they keep coming back. Here is what causes them and exactly what to do.

Why dark spots form

When skin is inflamed, by a pimple, sun exposure or irritation, it produces extra melanin to protect itself. That leftover pigment is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Medium and deeper skin tones, common in South Asia, are more prone to it, and our strong sun darkens it further.

The ingredients that fade dark spots

  • Vitamin C: brightens and helps reduce new pigment. Best used in the morning.
  • Glycolic acid (AHA): exfoliates the top layer so pigmented cells shed faster. Best at night.
  • Niacinamide and alpha arbutin: help even out tone over time.
  • Sunscreen: the most important step. UV light darkens existing spots and creates new ones.

A simple dark spot routine

Morning

  1. Cleanse with the Vitamin C Brightening Gel Face Wash.
  2. Apply 2 to 3 drops of Vitamin C Serum.
  3. Moisturise.
  4. Finish with Sheer Defence Tinted Sunscreen SPF 60. Reapply when outdoors.

Night

  1. Cleanse.
  2. Sweep on the 5% Glycolic Acid Toner (start 3 nights a week).
  3. Apply a brightening serum such as Skin Lightening Night Repair Serum.
  4. Moisturise.

How long does it take?

Fresh acne marks often fade in 4 to 8 weeks. Older or deeper pigmentation can take 3 months or more. Consistency matters more than strength: using a gentle routine every day beats a harsh one used occasionally.

Common mistakes

  • Skipping sunscreen on cloudy days or indoors near windows.
  • Picking or squeezing pimples, which creates more marks.
  • Using too many strong actives at once, which irritates skin and can cause more pigmentation.
  • Applying lemon or bleach creams directly on the face.

If you have persistent patches such as melasma, see a dermatologist. For everyday dark spots and acne marks, explore our Dark Spots and Pigmentation collection or the ready-made Skin Brightening Routine.

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