Don't miss: Survival Guide

How to Get Rid of Dark Spots From Acne

May 20, 2011 / By Samantha Volz

post comment

Pin It

Lemon is a natural bleacher and can be used to treat dark spots.

Photo: Andy Sotiriou/Photodisc/Getty Images

With hormone changes and environmental exposure, nearly everyone undergoes periods of acne infection in their lives. As if the bright red pimples were not enough, some acne infections are severe enough to leave scarring and dark spots on the skin, permanent reminders of skin problems. There are a number of methods and care procedures you can take to reduce the appearance of these dark spots and maintain your skin for a healthy appearance.

Wash your face twice daily (morning and evening) with a non-chemical cleanser. Use a cleaner that does not contain any perfume or other enhancements to ensure that it is just pure soap. Constant cleaning will remove oils and infection from your skin, preventing further acne outbreaks and ensuring your treatments get directly to the problem.

Exfoliate your skin with a non-chemical exfoliant twice weekly, on average every three to four days. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, revealing healthy skin below. Over time, exfoliating will remove the damaged skin that resulted in the dark spots.

Mix equal parts real lemon juice and honey together to form a soap-like consistency. If the mixture turns out to be too runny, add more honey; if it's too thick, add a little more lemon. Apply this mixture to your dark spots and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash away the mixture with warm water. Lemon is a natural bleacher and can help to return your skin to its original color.

Use a professional acne care product that contains mild doses -- 2 percent or less -- of sulfur or hydroquinone. Both of these products are natural skin lighteners and can have the same effect over time as lemon juice.

1.Skin cleanser

3.Lemon juice

5.Water

2.Exfoliant

4.Honey

Avoid touching or rubbing your face during the day, as well as squeezing or scratching at acne with your hands. Hands carry bacteria and germs that can worsen or cause infections and breakouts.

You can use bottled lemon juice, but make sure it is pure juice, and not from concentrate or another source.

Doctor-prescribed acne treatments and cleansers may contain more than 2 percent hydroquinone or sulfur.

Dark spots on the face may be caused by other problems, including ill health. If the dark spot gets worse or does not fade at all with constant treatment, consult a dermatologist.