Dark Skin: Treatment, Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Dark skin is a condition in which the natural colour tone of your skin darkens. It may be due to harsh sun light, pollution, stress, hormonal changes, hereditary conditions and even side effects of a medical treatment. The most common way to treat this condition is by the use of over the counter fairness creams. The other options you can go for are chemical peels, bleaches or laser surgery. Do not believe in the common misconception that fairness creams and skin lightening treatments can change the skin tone of your inherent dark skin. There are no treatments to do that. Such skin treatments can only help in regaining the actual colour of your skin and making you look younger.

You must consult a trained dermatologist to find out the treatment that will be perfect for your skin type. Skin bleaches contain hydroquinone that is considered to be the best skin lightening agent. Your dermatologist will conduct 2-4 bleaching sessions depending on your skin’s need. Chemical peeling minimises the appearance of different dark spots present on your skin by the use of certain chemicals. It involves applying high potency acids on skin that remove the spots improving the appearance of skin. There are three kinds of chemical peels. The most used one is the deep peel that uses phenol and gets deeper into the skin. Superficial peel improves discoloration associated with rough or dry skin caused due to sun damage. Medium peel is mostly used for anti ageing treatments because of the glycolic acid present in this peel. Laser treatment can be a fairly permanent solution for your troubles. Concentrated laser beams are applied to the different areas of your skin where the dark spots are present. This beam removes the layers of skin until the ones with the dark spots are removed and therefore, your skin lightens.

If you feel that your skin tone has darkened over time and your skin is looking unhealthy or unnatural, you can go for these treatments.

Mild dark spots can be removed by following a healthy skin care regimen for a few days. You need not go for any complicated treatment.

Make sure that you consult a good dermatologist who will choose the ideal treatment for you according to your skin type. Chemical peels and bleaches contain many chemicals that may harm your skin and worsen your condition if not chosen according to the skin type. Laser beams can leave temporary redness and irritation in your skin.

You should not step out in the sun for 2-3 days after laser treatment. Remember to apply a sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 30 if you cannot avoid going out. Use medicated moisturisers and lotions as prescribed by your dermatologist. Keep your skin clean at all times by using a good body wash and cleanser.

Recovery period depends on the severity of your condition and the area that is to be treated.

Chemical peels and bleaches cost between ₹800 - ₹ 2000 per session. Laser skin lightening treatment will cost you between ₹200000 to ₹400000 depending on the area of skin covered.

The results of the treatment are permanent only if you take proper care of your skin and do not let dark spots occur again. However, if your dark spots are an inherent condition, the treatment may have to be done repeatedly.

Homemade face packs containing dried orange peels and yogurt are known to help in skin lightening. You can also try applying lemon juice and honey mixed with milk. Ensure that you consume a nutritious diet filled with food items rich in vitamin C. Stay away from excess alcohol and tobacco.