Hello Doctor,
Why do I always get black spots after my acne clears, and how can I avoid this?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the response below to your query:
It’s quite common for acne to heal with dark spots, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This happens when the skin produces extra melanin in response to inflammation. To help prevent these dark spots, I recommend continuing your anti-acne medication even after the acne has cleared, as this will help maintain the health of your skin and prevent future breakouts. Additionally, using sunscreen daily is essential to protect the skin and prevent the spots from becoming darker.
It’s important to keep following up with your dermatologist. Once your acne is under control, your dermatologist can address the pigmentation specifically. They may suggest treatments such as topical creams containing ingredients like hydroquinone or retinoids, or in some cases, chemical peels, laser treatments, or other procedures to help reduce the dark spots effectively.
Thanks