Dark spots on the skin: Causes, treatments, and remedies

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, occur due to an overproduction of melanin. Melanin gives the eyes, skin, and hair their color.

Dark spots on the skin are not a cause for concern and do not need treatment, though people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Depending on the cause, people may call some types of dark spots on the skin age spots or sunspots.

In this article, we look at what causes dark spots on the skin and how people can remove them using dermatological treatments and home remedies.

Share on PinterestDark spots are common on the face, shoulders, and back of the hands.

Dark spots on the skin can range from light brown to dark brown. The color of dark spots may depend on the tone of a person’s skin. The spots are the same texture as the skin and are not painful.

Dark spots also vary in size and can develop on any part of the body but are most common in areas often exposed to the sun.

Dark spots are common in the following areas:

• back of the hands
• face
• back
• shoulders

In people with darker skin, a spot that is a few shades darker than the skin usually fades away within 6 to 12 months. Deeper coloration can take years to fade. Deep color changes often appear blue or gray, though a spot may also be a much darker brown than a person’s natural skin color.

There are several different causes of dark spots, as we describe here:

Sun damage

Also called sunspots, solar lentigines, or liver spots, people can develop dark spots on their skin after being exposed to the sun or tanning beds.

Areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, hands, or arms, are most likely to develop sun spots.

Hormonal changes

Melasma is a skin condition that leads to small patches of skin discoloration. The condition is more common in women, especially during pregnancy.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hormones may trigger melasma.

Medication side effects

Certain medications can increase skin pigmentation and lead to dark spots. The most common culprits are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tetracyclines, and psychotropic drugs.

Inflammation

Dark spots can develop after a bout of inflammation on the skin. Inflammation may occur for various reasons that include eczema, psoriasis, injury to the skin, and acne.

Wound healing

Dark spots may remain after an insect bite, burn, or cut heals. These may fade with time.

Irritation

Cosmetic skin or hair products can irritate the skin, causing dark patches to form.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause areas of the skin to become darker.

Conditions associated with diabetes include acanthosis nigricans, which causes darkened, velvety skin, and shin spots or diabetic dermopathy, which people may confuse with age spots.

Share on PinterestLaser treatment can remove dark spots on the skin.

Dark spots on the skin do not require treatment, but some people may want to remove the spots for cosmetic reasons.

A dermatologist can offer creams or procedures to lighten dark spots, or in some cases, remove them. Procedures are more expensive than creams and are more likely to cause side effects, though they tend to work faster.

The best treatment option may depend on the cause, the size of the dark spot, and the area of the body.

A dermatologist may recommend one of the following treatments for dark spots on the skin:

Laser treatment

Different types of lasers are available. The most common laser to treat dark spots on the skin uses an intense pulse light laser. The light targets melanin and breaks up the dark spots.

Microdermabrasion

During microdermabrasion, a dermatologist uses a special device that has an abrasive surface to remove the outer layer of the skin. This treatment promotes new collagen growth, which may help reduce spots.

Chemical peels

A chemical peel involves applying a solution to the skin, which exfoliates the surface, leading to new skin growth. It may gradually fade dark spots on the skin.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a procedure that involves applying liquid nitrogen to the dark patches to freeze them, which injures the skin cells. The skin often heals lighter afterward.

Prescription skin-lightening cream

Prescription-lightening cream works by bleaching the skin. It typically works gradually and takes several months to decrease the appearance of dark spots.

Hydroquinone, which is the active ingredient in the creams, prevents the skin from producing melanin. Prescription products tend to have a strength of 3–4 percent.

Injectable skin lightening products are available, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not recommend them. There is not enough evidence to suggest that they work, and there may be associated health risks.

In addition to dermatological procedures and prescription medications, people may find that some home remedies might fade dark spots on the skin, as the following sections discuss.

Over-the-counter creams

Over-the-counter skin creams to lighten skin are not as strong as prescription medications, but they may also work.

Creams and serums contain various ingredients, including retinol or alpha hydroxy acid, which may speed up the exfoliation of the skin and promote new skin growth.

When looking for a skin-lightening cream, always choose one recommended by a dermatologist, as some products can be harmful.

Natural remedies

Products with certain natural ingredients may help treat dark spots on the skin.

Researchers published a systematic review of clinical studies that used natural products to treat dark spots on the skin. They looked at several ingredients including niacinamide (a form of vitamin B-3), soy, licorice extracts, and mulberry.

Although studies were limited, the researchers said that these natural treatments showed promise in lightening hyperpigmentation.

Results of a small-scale 2017 study suggest that applying an aloe vera gel to the skin could help reduce melasma during pregnancy after 5 weeks.

Cosmetics

Although cosmetics do not lighten dark spots, they might cover them up. People can consider using a cream-based concealer to decrease the appearance of spots.

People may wish to keep in mind that many of the home remedies that webpages recommend may have side effects or no evidence of effectiveness. Examples include lemon and apple cider vinegar. No studies back the claims that these treatments work.

In some cases, unproven treatments may aggravate the skin. For example, the American Society for Dermatological Surgery do not recommend lemon juice or abrasive scrubs, as these methods could make dark spots worse.

Some skin lightening products can do more harm than good. Many contain ingredients that can harm the skin or overall health, such as mercury or steroids. Applying these can cause pimples, rashes, and fragile skin over time.

Share on PinterestA doctor or dermatologist may use a Wood’s lamp skin exam to diagnose dark spots on the skin.

A doctor or dermatologist can often work out the cause of dark spots on the skin by examining them and taking a medical history.

During a physical exam, the healthcare professional might perform a Wood’s lamp skin exam, where they view the spots through a special device that emits black light.

In some instances, specific characteristics of a spot might require more tests to make sure skin cancer is not causing the spot.

Anyone can develop dark spots on the skin. Certain risk factors appear to increase a person’s chances including:

• sun exposure
• pregnancy
• skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis
• trauma or injury to the skin
• medications that increase pigmentation
• liver disease
• diabetes

It may not always be possible to prevent dark spots on the skin from developing. For example, hormonal changes during pregnancy that may lead to melasma are not preventable.

There are, however, a few things people can do to decrease the chances of dark spots and prevent them from getting darker:

• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even when the sun is not bright.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the skin further.
• Treat skin conditions, such as acne, which may lead to inflammation.
• Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when it tends to be strongest.

In most cases, dark spots on the skin are not harmful. But in some instances, it might be hard to tell the difference between a dark spot and other skin changes, such as melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer.

People who are unsure what a dark spot is or have not been able to get rid of it can see a doctor to find out more.

It is important to talk to a doctor if any dark spot on the skin:

• appears suddenly
• itches
• tingles
• bleeds
• changes color or size

Learn about how to identify melanoma and other forms of skin cancer here.

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, can have a range of causes. They are usually harmless and do not need treatment. If a person wants to get rid of dark spots, they can try a range of treatments, including working with a dermatologist for cosmetic procedures or using over-the-counter products.

The effectiveness of treatment may depend on the cause of the dark spots and their extent. Dark spots on the skin may not completely fade. It may take a while to see a difference, but treatment often lightens the spots.

Read the article in Spanish.

5 skin spots you shouldn’t worry about

Some spots caused by aging and sun exposure are benign, while others need medical attention. Learn the difference.

 If you’ve recently spent any time in the sun, you may have noticed that you have a few more spots—brown or tan or white—on the exposed parts of your body. Even if you always use sun protection now, you can still develop skin changes caused by sun exposure decades ago. The good news is that most of these will not be cancerous. However, distinguishing benign spots from those that warrant medical attention can be somewhat tricky. Though the following are caused by sun exposure, they won’t progress to cancer.

1. Freckles

If you’ve had freckles since you were a kid, you no doubt know how they behave—darkening in the sun and heat and fading in the winter. Freckles themselves are not a cause for worry, but they signal an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

2. Melasma

This condition, marked by irregular dark patches, is more common in women and may appear in one’s 20s and 30s. The patches are often triggered by excessive sun exposure and intensified by changes in hormone levels associated with contraceptives, pregnancy, or postmenopausal hormone therapy. Low levels of thyroid hormone may also contribute. Melasma can affect people with all skin types and become darker with sun exposure. It may disappear during menopause as estrogen and progesterone levels decline.

3. Lentigines

These are commonly called “age spots” or “liver spots.” They are irregular in shape, larger than freckles, and vary from tan to very dark brown. They occur in sun-exposed skin. Some are direct consequences of severe sunburns. They are common in people of all skin types.

4. Seborrheic keratoses

These are usually round, dark, and raised. They are often described as appearing to be stuck on, like a piece of gum. If you’re unsure whether you have a seborrheic keratosis or a melanoma, see a dermatologist.

5. “White spots”

The medical term for these small smooth spots is idiopathic guttate hypo-melanoses. Women are more likely than men to have this condition and usually develop it after age 40, usually on areas of the body exposed to the sun.

What should you do about them?

There is no medical reason to treat any of the above, but scores of over-the-counter products are promoted for reducing the appearance of dark spots or improving skin tone. This is a buyer-beware situation, because these products are cosmetics rather than prescription drugs, their manufacturers don’t have to demonstrate their effectiveness.

However, dermatologists have several proven techniques for treating dark and light skin patches, including chemical peels and prescription ointments containing hydroquinone or retinoic acid. Laser therapy can be effective for dark spots. All of these treatments are considered cosmetic, so your insurance won’t pay for them.

When to see a dermatologist

Check your skin regularly for moles that are new, growing, changing, or irregular in shape and color. They could be a sign of melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, and should be checked by a dermatologist as soon as possible. If melanoma runs in your family or if you have more than 40 moles, have used tanning beds, or have had several sunburns, you’re at increased risk and should have your skin checked regularly by a dermatologist.

Solar, or actinic, keratoses also warrant a trip to the dermatologist because they can progress to a form of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. They are red, pink, tan, or clear bumps that often feel rough or scaly. They may also appear as sandpapery patches that are hard to distinguish from the surrounding skin, except by touch. Although not quite as deadly as melanoma, squamous cell skin cancer can grow deep into surrounding tissue and can occasionally spread to other parts of the body.

You should see a dermatologist if you find any new growths or skin changes that last for more than a couple of weeks. The American Academy of Dermatology’s website has tools to help you spot suspicious growths. Go to www.aad.org and click “Spot skin cancer.”

Image: Goodboy Picture Company/Getty Images

How to get rid of blackheads at home [top 4 remedies]

11/25/2020

5 min only teenagers, but also many adults. Why do they appear? How to deal with black dots on the face? Is it possible to get rid of them once and for all? Now we will tell you everything!

Contents:

• Causes of black spots on the face
• How to quickly get rid of deep blackheads on the face?
• Home remedies for blackheads: how to identify the main ingredients?

Causes of black dots on the face

First of all, you need to understand what black dots are in general. These are accumulations of sebum (sebum), dead cells and particles of dirt that have fallen on the skin from the external environment. They usually appear on skin prone to oiliness, enlarged pores, and hyperkeratosis (thickening of the stratum corneum).

There are several main causes of blackheads:

• A combination of an aggressive environment and improper skin care . Insufficient cleansing of the skin after exposure to the city air, improper selection of exfoliating procedures, refusal to use exfoliants… All this can lead to frequent clogging of pores and the appearance of “sebaceous plugs” – those very black dots.
• Incorrect selection of cosmetics . Yes, yes, there are cosmetics that have the so-called comedogenic effect – the ability to clog pores and provoke the appearance of blackheads. If you know your skin is prone to acne, look for products labeled “non-comedogenic”.

• Insufficient attention to composition. Those with oily and blemish-prone skin should avoid products with excessively thick textures, oils and other “heavy” ingredients. Carefully read the composition on each new package for you – sometimes such components are hidden at the end of the list.
• Hormones . Moreover, they are associated not only with adolescence, but also with other hormonal changes: pregnancy, cycle jumps or the onset of menopause. As a rule, the sharp appearance of black dots is associated with the active production of testosterone and, in principle, increased sensitivity to androgens – therefore, it can happen at any age.
• Food . One of the rather controversial factors, which many nutritionists and cosmetologists, however, note in their practice. Mostly skin rashes are associated with the active use of fast carbohydrates: pastries, sweets, flour and starchy foods. However, it is better to individually calculate by exclusion of products one by one, what exactly provokes increased production of sebum and blockage of pores in your case.

How to quickly get rid of deep blackheads on the face?

Of course, even if you dream of removing blackheads and cleansing your face as soon as possible, open comedones should never be squeezed out, scrubbed roughly or resorted to other aggressive mechanical influences. This can not only injure the already restless skin, but also provoke the appearance of an infection and the spread of an acute inflammatory process, as well as pigmentation.

How then to quickly and effectively remove black spots on the face? With the help of competent basic care, all the stages of which we will now tell you.

Gentle wash

Owners of oily skin often seek to wash it “to a scratch”, carefully removing all traces of fatty secretions. Unfortunately, most often active “degreasing” of the skin, on the contrary, only provokes increased production of sebum, turning the problem into a vicious circle.

Use mild cleansers (gels, special water) with a neutral pH to maintain the hydro-lipid balance and the protective layer of the skin. Avoid soaps, tonics, and lotions that are harsh or overly drying.

Exfoliation

A must-have step that also works well for blackheads. To gently remove dead cells and cleanse the surface of the skin, use chemical exfoliants based on mild acids, or delicate mechanical scrubs with small abrasive particles (only if there are no open inflammations on the skin!). After each such procedure, be sure to use products with SPF protection.

Deep Cleansing

1-2 times a week, be sure to use masks for oily and problem skin for deep cleansing of enlarged pores. Such “cleansing” literally draws out blackheads, absorbs excess secretions of sebum, prevents the possible development of inflammation and helps to achieve a pleasant matte skin tone.

Moisturizing

For some reason, there is still a myth that oily skin does not need moisturizing. Please don’t make this mistake – don’t confuse unwanted oily sheen with nicely hydrated skin. Remember that dehydrated skin begins to produce even more sebum, thereby provoking the formation of new comedones.

When fighting blackheads at home, be sure to use non-comedogenic moisturizers based on hyaluronic acid and other intensely moisturizing ingredients.

Home remedies for blackheads: how to identify the main ingredients?

When wondering how to remove blackheads at home, do not forget that in any case you need to use proven and professional products designed specifically for removing blackheads. Now we will tell you which ingredients will help to gently but effectively get rid of black spots on the face.

Glycolic acid

It actively penetrates into all layers of the skin, dissolves and exfoliates dead skin particles, prevents clogging of pores and prevents the appearance of new comedones. Allows you to get rid of even deep blackheads and restores a pleasant matte skin tone.

Our choice: NORMADERM pore-tightening cleansing lotion with glycolic acid for deep cleansing of pores.

Reviews

1/5

Svetlana Tarasenko

Feeling of cleansed skin is guaranteed. My breakouts are reduced by using this toner and my skin looks fresher.

2/5

Lera Serbina

The skin invigorates perfectly in the morning, the alcohol smell is felt. The skin does not dry out – this is the most important thing.

3/5

Olga Ivanova

This lotion contains a large amount of alcohol. Can alcohol harm oily skin?

4/5

Olga Pimenova

Good lotion for tightening pores. It smells a little like alcohol, but does not dry the skin. I wipe the areas with rashes.

5/5

Irina Krasilnikova

I buy not for the first time, it perfectly tightens pores, dries up inflammation. I use it in combination with Normaderm Phytosolution Washing Gel / or with a 3 in 1 cleanser. Economical consumption, a bottle lasts for 4-5 months. daily use.

Salicylic acid

Has a powerful antibacterial effect, helps to stop the development of the inflammatory process. However, it has a drying effect – so make sure that products based on it contain moisturizing ingredients in their composition.

Our choice: Normaderm Phytosolution cleansing face wash with salicylic acid, probiotic (strengthens the skin’s protective barrier) and oligoelements (helps regulate sebum production).

Reviews

1/20

Anastasia Plotnikova

Economical use, 200 ml is enough for almost 7-8 months. Gently cleanses the skin, does not overdry the skin and does not tighten, like other gels for problem skin. Gradually removes inflammation and prevents the appearance of new ones.

2/20

Nadezhda Badmaeva

Good afternoon, I want to buy a cleansing gel for a teenager with a skin problem, what is the right way to complete cleansing?

3/20

Lera Serbina

I have been using it since school. In adolescence, with the help of normaderm, I managed to solve the problem of acne, and now I use it to maintain the skin in excellent condition.

4/20

Olga Pimenova

Cleans 100%! The face after the gel is clean, but not overdried.

5/20

Irina Krasilnikova

This gel is a godsend for my problem skin. I use 2.5 years. Perfectly cleanses the face of impurities, prevents the formation of acne. I use it in combo with a pore-tightening lotion and moisturizer (either Mineral 89 gel/or Hyaluronic Serum and Vitamin C Facial Filler). After use, the skin became much clearer. I buy not for the first time. Economical expense. A 200 ml tube is enough for about half a year, and 400 for a year! I recommend!

6/20

Anastasia Zhuravlyova

Vichy contains salicylic acid, mattifies the skin well, gently cleanses, pleasant aroma, economical consumption, satisfied with the result and the product itself. I will order more

7/20

Svetlana Pavlova

I have a washing gel from the Normaderm range. I don’t use it often, about 1-2 times a week. Of course it cleanses perfectly and does not tighten the skin at all!

8/20

Julia Semyonova

Good evening. VICHY Normaderm Phytosolution gel leaves a very pleasant feeling on the face, cleanses well, does not tighten the skin after use, helps fight acne and oily sheen, pleasant smell, large volume. Highly recommend.

9/20

Svetlana Tarasenko

I liked the gel both for washing and for the body. It does not dry out the skin, but it helps to remove oiliness. The consistency is pleasant and foams well. Consumption is minimal and 400 ml packaging lasted for a long time

10/20

Irina Maryanova

I have been using Vichy products for a long time and I am always satisfied with the result. Therefore, for her teenage nephew, she acquired Normaderm for the treatment of inflammatory elements. I took a cleansing gel, lotion and fluid for the face. Together these 3 products work great! Already after the first month of use, the inflammatory elements became much less, and the skin became less oily.

11/20

Liana Morozova

I use only products of this brand.

12/20

Olga Zhukova

Cleans literally to a squeak, ideal for very oily skin, I wouldn’t recommend it to others as a remedy for every day, dry skin will tighten very much

13/20

Alena Doronina 900 03

U I have a mixed type of facial skin (combination skin), the gel cleanses well, does not tighten, it smells very nice, I recommend it!

14/20

Tatyana Pismenny

At first I tried it in a sampler, I really liked it. I decided to order a large size, sooooo economical use, I think it will last for at least half a year. Cleans well, to a squeak)

15/20

Sergey Pro

Pleasant gel, lathers well, for oily skin

16/20

Olga Zhukova dick or normal will tighten

17/ 20

Kristina Selkina

I received the first sample as a gift – 15 ml. Because my skin is normal, I gave it to my boyfriend with oily skin for testing. The effect is great. Does not dry out the skin, acne is gone. Bought a full version in 200 ml. After a couple of months of use, the pores have significantly decreased, the skin looks cool. Only for oily skin. You overdry the normal one.

18/20

Julia Silina

Good gel, foams well, cleanses, does not tighten the skin after use, does not dry out
For combi skin, what you need

19/20

Ekaterina Agafonova

Very pleasant gel for washing, I have combination skin, occasionally there are rashes, the gel comfortably cleanses the skin, removes makeup, does not dry, there are fewer rashes with it, I already use it many years and very satisfied

20/20

Zif Khakimova

Received as a gift, liked it. Economical, lathers well. Cleanses the skin well, does not tighten. There is no inflammation, but the pores are slightly enlarged, the gel fits perfectly. Bought the full size.

Hyaluronic acid

The very essential component that helps prevent dehydration of the skin and fills it with moisture. Hyaluronic acid also helps to smooth the surface of the skin and the disappearance of traces of blackheads, effectively working as part of products for combination, oily and problem skin.

Our choice: Normaderm double action corrective care is one of the most important basic products for problem skin care, which helps not only to permanently get rid of blackheads, but also to keep the skin in a clear condition.

Reviews

1/20

Anastasia Plotnikova

Evens out the tone and reduces the number of rashes. The texture is light, does not clog pores, absorbs quickly. Mattifies the skin for a long time, but does not dry.

2/20

Regina Kalimullina

I have combination, sensitive skin, I am allergic or irritated to many products, I have been using the normaderm range for 6 years, in general, my acquaintance began with the matting normaderm cream, but when this fluid came out, I decided to try it and fell in love , this same normaderm cream but much lighter, I use phytosolution fluid in the summer, for day care, first I tone the skin, after a moisturizing mist, and then this fluid, and after a sunscreen fluid, also from normaderm (released recently), and my skin feels she feels great, she is not overdried, she is not overloaded, not tightened, the skin is matte, and the peelings are moisturized, and protected from the sun. In winter, autumn and spring, I apply a moisturizing serum with ceramides from another manufacturer under this fluid, and after this fluid, and also excellent, the product does not conflict with other products. I really love the range of normaderm and aqualia thermal, I really love Vichy, thank you for such worthy, high-quality products. You really “know how to make your skin happy”!

3/20

Svetlana Tarasenko

Inflammations have become much less, and if they occur, they disappear faster than usual and there are no pigment spots left after.

4/20

Lera Serbina

I used to use it all the time, but after the release of the serum I switched. The lotion is great, light and fragrance free. Suitable for my sensitive skin.

5/20

Regina Garayeva

Hello. How is it different from Normaderm cream?

6/20

Olga Pimenova

Perfect for my oily skin. Regulates sebum separation, perfectly mattifies

7/20

Nana Martin

Hello!
What probiotics are in this product? Can people with lactose intolerance use it?

8/20

Natalia Strelkova

Hello, I bought this product because I really liked the sampler. The problem is that I do not have a cream, but a watery structure, although there was a cream in the sampler. What could it be?

9/20

Irina Skvortsova

I have been using this product for 2 months, I am very pleased with the result, inflammation and oily sheen have noticeably decreased.

10/20

Irina Skvortsova

I have been using this product for 2 months, I am very pleased with the result, inflammation and oily sheen have noticeably decreased.

11/20

Evgeniya Solovieva

Hello! Can you please tell me if it is possible to use the fluid together with Vichy Aqualia Thermal Light cream?

12/20

Vladimir

Good afternoon! Can I use Normaderm Phytosolution
Facial fluid if the skin is oily, but dehydrated (as a result of aggressive cleansing)? Will salicylic acid aggravate my skin?

13/20

Irina Maryanova

Bought for an 18 year old teenager, very pleased with the result. Has been using for almost a year, there are much fewer inflammatory elements, sometimes there are single inflammations. The texture of the fluid is very light, fits well and perfectly moisturizes the skin. It does its job 100%.

14/20

Veronika Gontareva

Good afternoon. Do I need to apply cream after using this product? Or will it replace it?

15/20

Svetlana Zemlyanukhina

Hello. I have combination skin prone to acne. Can I use Normaderm Phytosolution Fluid with Vichy Liftactiv Collagen Specialist Day Cream and Vichy Slow Age Revitalizing Night Cream Mask?

16/20

Alena Koigerova

For me the best tool and the whole series as a whole. Removes oily sheen and inflammation, makes the skin clearer and more even. I order not the first time and always very satisfied!!

17/20

Irina Tikhonova

Very good fluid. Helps me with oily skin and breakouts. It absorbs well and is not felt on the skin.

18/20

Tatyana D

A good product, it gives a cooling effect. Skin moisturizes and softens. I like it so far, but its smell is too harsh for me

19/20

Anna Nikitina

It’s just weightless, super moisturizing! No greasy sheen. I apply after washing only on the T-zone, because acne and black dots have been tormenting since adolescence. The rashes on the forehead disappeared after a few applications. I recommend to buy.

20/20

Natalia Shorina

I really liked this remedy. Pleasant texture, pleasant aroma, pleasant sensations on the skin after application. Koda immediately looks well-groomed, the pores are not so noticeable.

White Clay

There are two common types of white clay that have proven effective in removing blackheads and deep cleaning pores: kaolin and bentonite. The use of masks based on them is traditionally one of the most popular life hacks “how to get rid of black dots in 5 minutes” – however, do not forget that it is better to use a mask no more than 1-2 times a week. Keep it exactly as long as indicated on the package, and do not allow the mask to dry completely on the face – there is a high risk of overdrying the skin or damaging it when washed off with frozen particles.

Our pick: VICHY’s pore-clearing clay mask, which also contains allantoin and aloe vera, ingredients that help prevent dry skin, nourish and moisturize it.

Reviews

1/20

Svetlana Tarasenko

Cleans pores and does not dry the skin. It has been in my arsenal of bestsellers for a long time, but, unfortunately, it is not sold everywhere now.

2/20

Lera Serbina

This clay mask deeply cleanses the skin. It does not attract water, but at the same time deeply cleanses the skin. I use it once a week to cleanse and tighten pores

3/20

Olga Tumanova

Hello, tell me the face should be DRY or WET before applying this mask

4/20

Olga Pimenova

I liked it very much, I used to take it in miniatures to take with myself on trips, and now I already drive a large one. I apply once a week. Satisfied with the result

5/20

Irina Makarenko Makarenko

My favorite clay mask.
Safe and effective, I have been using it for a long time, I am satisfied with the result.
You get used to good things quickly and already calmly treat that after the mask your face shines.
Recently, before an important event, I made a mask for my husband and I was just surprised at the result.
The skin seemed to glow from within.
The result just amazed me. Husband also liked it very much.
We agreed that once a week I would apply this mask to him.
I recommend!

6/20

Anna Sieg

Vichy Mineral Mask cleanses the skin well, cleanses the pores, and gives a healthy look. I recommend!

7/20

Svetlana Tarasenko

I liked the mask, it cleanses and moisturizes at the same time. The skin became clearer and even the complexion changed in just a month. I use the mask 2 times a week and I think to try more masks from Vichy

8/20

Irina Maryanova

The mask is cool! Great for combination skin types! It cleans well without drying out the skin. I use it twice a week and I’m very happy with the results! Thank you for such wonderful products, you are the best!

9/20

Julia Ropotova

The skin seems to come to life after curling, after regular use it is cleaner. Before the mask, I use pink peeling from the same jar.

11/20

Irina Putyakova

My skin type is mixed. The forehead and chin are often shiny, I use the mask only on these areas once a week, so I have enough of it for a long time. It cleanses very well, the main thing is not to overdo the mask until it dries. The smell of clean clay 🙂

12/20

Anastasia Mizetskaya

I have oily skin, so I use clay masks on a regular basis. This mask removes post-acne, oily sheen and even softens the skin a little. At first I tried it in packages of 6 × 2 ml, now I bought the full size

13/20

Marina Milyaeva Milyaeva

The mask is simply magnificent, it perfectly tightens pores, cleanses them and evens out the complexion. Vichy Mineral Cleansing Mask – I liked the effect, it mattifies the skin well, after application it does not require moisturizing.
Cleaned up a little blackheads, but not much. Very well narrowed the pores, does not dry the skin. The effect lasts almost two or three days, it’s nice to touch the face, such a tender skin after using the mask … It also rinses off well, no problems. The only thing is that in the first minutes after applying the mask, it pinches the skin a little, it becomes scary out of habit, and then you get used to it.
I really liked the mask, I recommend it!

14/20

Maria Cherevko

When I ordered this mask, I did not expect such an amazing effect. But I’ll start over. Firstly, I just love vichy jars – the way they lie in my hands. It is pleasant to open them, the products are easy to apply. Secondly, the mask itself is easily distributed and stretched over the skin, the consumption is economical. It does not tighten the skin and is easily washed off. The pores are cleansed, noticeable immediately, visually. Thirdly, there is not an obtrusive smell. I recommend for use, as the declared result is obtained. The skin is clean and fresh.

15/20

Alisa Akhmetshina

At first I tried it in a small package, I liked it. Indeed, it cleanses the skin well, after the mask the skin becomes smooth, silky. Lays down smoothly, has a pleasant aroma. It should be noted that it is very economically spent. I recommend.

16/20

Olga Novikova Novikova

Thick texture mask, smells like clay, used sparingly. After the first application, it practically eliminated blackheads, reduced the oiliness of the skin.

17/20

Svetlana Sheleg

At first I tried a sample of this mask, I liked it, I took a jar, the mask is excellent, it really cleans pores and perfectly mattifies, the skin after is soft, tender

18/20

Ekaterina Amosova

Simply the best mask in my life, do not spare the money for it, it’s worth it!
Says a man whose black dots were always very visible, even under the tonal layer. Now they are almost invisible, even without foundation!

19/20

Alina Yemchenko

If you want to please your skin and at the same time clean your pores from impurities, then this mask is ideal! Applied evenly, pleasant texture, cleans the skin just fine!

20/20

Margarita Shcherbakova

The mask is excellent! Clears pores just like that! I put it on and my face is perfectly clean. Mattifies, in the morning the face is matte, clean! I love wearing it after heavy makeup!

In general, remember that it is the right combination of ingredients, the competent use of products suitable for problem skin and mandatory moisturizing that will allow you to effectively remove blackheads and enjoy a pleasant cleanliness and freshness of your face!

causes and how to get rid of them

Black dots are normal, but we are well aware that when they become very noticeable, we want to get rid of them. We decided to find out where they come from and what to do with them so that there are fewer of them.

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beauty

Beauty

Skin care

Beauty hacks

black dots

The causes of black dots on the face can be very different: it is taking vitamins, and malnutrition, and even the addiction to touching your face too often! Let’s deal with each case in more detail, and also learn about the most effective ways to get rid of plugs in the pores of the skin.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Black dots: causes of appearance

You lack vegetable oil

Nutritionists unanimously say that modern people are very short of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are rich in vegetable oils. These are all the causes of acne and blackheads. The sebaceous glands do not work properly and provoke the formation of acne on the skin. This problem is easily solved: every morning on an empty stomach you drink a spoonful of olive oil. For clean skin, this is really very important – the balance of fatty acids is normalized, and black dots will leave you.

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You lack vitamin B

The reasons for the appearance of black dots on the nose and other places on the face may also lie in the lack of vitamin B. In this case, our sebaceous glands work too actively and clog pores.

Washing too hard

What causes blackheads? Including from too active washing. Yes, the skin needs to be cleansed if you want it to be flawlessly smooth. But sometimes cleansing can play tricks on you: facial cleansers and gels can upset your skin’s natural pH if you use them too hard. As a result, the pores will begin to clog even more, alas. Therefore, wash your face no more than twice a day and try to choose softer formulas.

You eat too much greasy food

French fries and burgers cause blackheads on the chin, nose and more. Fatty foods rich in cholesterol will be the most unfavorable for the skin, so try to avoid them.

Taking or canceling oral contraceptives

You must have heard that taking oral contraceptives usually has the best effect on the skin – the hormonal background is normalized, the skin is cleansed. However, this is not always the case: when you start or stop drinking contraceptives, the body is in a state of stress – this is where the causes of black dots on the back and face lie. Therefore, it is better to consult with a gynecologist-endocrinologist before giving up COCs.

You lack fiber

The key to beautiful and clean skin is the normal functioning of the digestive tract, which is simply impossible without products rich in fiber. Fruits and vegetables are a cleanser for our body. It is problems with the intestines that are most often responsible for the causes of black dots on the nose and other parts of the body. So eat more salads!

You don’t like fermented milk products

Do you remember the last time you drank a glass of kefir or curdled milk at night? But in vain! It is fermented milk products that are responsible for a healthy intestinal microflora. If not everything is in order with beneficial bacteria, this will immediately be reflected on the face. Yes, yes, in the form of comedones on the face, because the rejection of sour milk is also one of the reasons why black dots form.

You often touch your face

If during the day you touch your face with your hands (and even in the subway!) and don’t mind resting your face with your palm while listening to your interlocutor in a cafe, then don’t be surprised where you get blackheads from. This is also one of the causes of black dots on the nose! The fact is that many microbes and bacteria live on our hands, which will only be happy to move to the skin of your beautiful face. Remember: to avoid acne, touch your face only with previously washed hands.

Black dots on the face: causes and treatment

We have already talked in detail about the various causes of the appearance of black dots, now let’s take a closer look at the treatment of this problem. Of course, the way to get rid of it will depend on the specific cause of blackheads, but there are a few basic recommendations that help deal with comedones.

• Start by gently removing dirt from your skin. Do not try to clean your face “to a squeak” every time – on the contrary, this only increases the production of sebum. It is better to use gentle cleansers with a neutral pH. So you can keep the protective layer of the skin.
• Gently exfoliate skin with mild acid chemical exfoliants or gentle mechanical scrubs with small abrasive particles. After these procedures, do not forget to apply a cream with an SPF factor.
• Do not neglect the use of masks for deep cleansing of enlarged pores. Such procedures allow you to “stretch” black spots, establish control over the secretion of sebum and prevent the development of possible inflammation.
• Deeply moisturize even oily skin, because due to lack of moisture, sebum begins to be released even more actively – and this is the main reason for the appearance of blackheads.