How to remove dark spots and pimple marks on the face

After a pimple, sun exposure or irritation, skin can make extra pigment in that area. On South Asian skin these marks are often brown and can last for months, especially without sun protection.

Light marks often start to fade in 6 to 12 weeks of daily care with sunscreen. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, spots a few shades darker than your skin often take about six months to a year to fade, and deeper discolouration can take longer. Claims of removing dark spots in one day or overnight are not realistic.

Vitamin C and glutathione for a brighter, more even tone; niacinamide to even out the look of spots; gentle AHAs such as glycolic acid to lift dull surface cells; and sunscreen every day so new spots do not form. The American Academy of Dermatology lists vitamin C and glycolic acid among over-the-counter ingredients that can fade dark spots, with daily broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.

Morning: Brightening Face Wash, Vitamin C & Glutathione Serum, moisturiser, sunscreen.

Night: face wash, moisturiser, and the exfoliating scrub once or twice a week.

Do not pick or squeeze pimples, as that makes marks darker and longer-lasting.

See a dermatologist for melasma, spots that change shape or colour, very dark patches, or acne that leaves scars. They can offer prescription treatments.

American Academy of Dermatology, "How to fade dark spots in darker skin tones": https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/fade-dark-spots