How to get rid of hyperpigmentation on black skin naturally

Here are some solutions to consider:

1. Identify the underlying condition

Work with a dermatologist to find out the root cause of your dark spots, then determine the best treatment plan for you. “[If you] can get the acne, the eczema [or] the skin rash under control, then you will often deal with less hyperpigmentation,” says Lenzy.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (left) and ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless

EltaMD; ISDIN

2. Slather on sunscreen

Too much exposure to UV rays can exacerbate dark spots, so limit your time in the sun as much as possible and get in the habit of wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. “One trip in the sun can reverse all of the treatments you’re doing,” warns Lenzy.

Two sunscreens to try: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 ($37, eltamd.com) and ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless ($70, isdin.com)

BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner (left) and Topicals Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration

Dermstore; Sephora

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3. Scope out a good serum

Serums infused with powerful antioxidants, such as vitamin C, can tackle stubborn dark spots and promote radiant skin. “Vitamin C can directly inhibit tyrosinase [production], which is the enzyme that’s critical to making melanin,” says Henry. Other ingredients to look for? Tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid, glycolic acid and niacinamide are commonly used in serums, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten your complexion.

Two serums to try: BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner ($80, dermstore.com) and Topicals Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration ($38, sephora.com)

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment (left) and SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5

Differin; SkinCeuticals

4. Reap the benefits of retinol

Retinol is known for its antiaging abilities, but it’s also used as an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. “Retinol is a holy grail that I think is underutilized, especially in skin of color,” says Lenzy. Similar to vitamin C, retinol can hinder tyrosinase production, but it also acts as an exfoliant by removing dead skin cells, revealing a more even skin tone.

Two retinols to try: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment ($15, target.com) and SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5 ($76, skinceuticals.com)

5. Look into in-office treatments

Laser procedures are among the most popular in-office solutions for dark spots, but Henry says they’re usually reserved for more severe cases. And while some laser treatments can be done safely on dark skin, not all are created equal, so proceed with caution. “Laser surgery in Black and brown skin is more of an advanced treatment,” says Henry. “Anything that is not done in a measured and safe way in [dark] skin can cause hyperpigmentation, which is what you’re trying to treat.”

Considering chemical peels? Lenzy suggests starting with superficial peels, which are less abrasive. “In [patients with] skin of color, I use deeper chemical peels [sparingly] ... because they can get a great amount of irritation [and] develop more hyperpigmentation,” she says. “Slow and steady is the approach I recommend, especially when you’re dealing with skin of color.”

Anissa Gabbara writes about beauty, health, lifestyle and pop culture. Her work has appeared in Sisters From AARP, Sesi magazine and Maple City Our Town magazine.

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