Dark spots and post-acne marks: our best treatment for men

What do UV damage, post-acne blemishes and hormone changes have in common in men? They can lead to unwanted dark spots. While the most effective dark spot treatments are done professionally, you can still arm yourself with the right products to help slow down and reduce the appearances of dark marks.

HOW TO HELP PREVENT UNWANTED DARK SPOTS

In most cases, unwanted dark spots are caused by sun damage. The key to sun protection is to use an effective moisturiser with a SPF 30+ and apply it daily. By protecting your skin's barrier function, you will help your skin to stay clear and wrinkle-free for longer. In addition, daily UV damage defence goes a long way in reducing sun induced dark spots.

THE MOST COMMON TYPE OF DARK SPOTS

Post-acne dark marks are one of the most common forms of dark marks in South Africa. Post-acne marks are mainly triggered due to blemishes being scratched and squeezed, and the injured skin being exposed to sunlight. Another common form of dark marks for men is due to shaving. Poor shaving techniques lead to ingrown hairs, which irritate the skin, commonly known as razor bumps or razor burns., which could result in dark marks in the beard area.

HOW TO REDUCE AND TREAT POST ACNE DARK MARKS

The number one thing you can do to reduce dark marks is not picking at your pimples. Secondly, stick to a daily skincare regime to help reduce blemishes from forming. To protect pores from clogging, use gentle skincare products containing highly effective substances such as Licochalcone A, Salicylic Acid, and Vitamin C.

SHAVING TIPS AND TRICKS FOR REDUCING DARK SPOTS

Shaving is a frequent cause of dark spots in men. To minimise skin damage a successful treatment plan often includes adequate pre-shave preparation, including some of the finest shaving products and employing an effective shaving technique. This multi-modal approach is frequently the key to fight dark spots in the beard area.

TRY: NIVEA MEN SENSITIVE ONE STROKE SHAVING GEL

This unique alcohol-free formula provides a smooth razor glide and soothes irritation while protecting the skin with Chamomile. 

EXPERTS APPROVED TIPS

Applying a broad spectrum SPF and staying out of direct sunlight.
Keep hands off pimples, blackheads and other skin injuries.
Explore scripted topical treatments containing ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, liquorice root and kojic acid which can help reduce dark spots.
Ingredients like NIVEA LUMINOUS ⁶³⁰ have been shown to help minimise dark spots at the source.
If your post-acne marks or dark spots are severe, you should visit your dermatologist.

WHAT PRODUCTS CAN YOU TRY?

NIVEA LUMINOUS⁶³⁰

Did you know that NIVEA scientists tested more than 50,000 molecules to find the most effective treatment to reduce the appearance of dark marks? The molecule number 630, LUMINOUS⁶³⁰, was the most effective. NIVEA PERFECT & RADIANT LUMINOUS⁶³⁰ is formulated with this ingredient and proven to reduce dark marks and uneven skin tone.

TRY: NIVEA PERFECT & RADIANT LUMINOUS⁶³⁰  DAY CREAM SPF50

The non-greasy day cream lowers the appearance of dark marks while shielding your skin from the sun's damaging rays.

TRY: LUMINOUS⁶³⁰ ANTI DARK MARKS SERUM

The serum works on existing dark marks to brighten and minimise the appearance of spots, while helping the skin to balance its own new melanin production to reduce unsightly dark marks. It is the World’s No. 1 Dark Mark Serum.