{"id":5912,"date":"2024-02-15T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-02-15T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/?p=5912"},"modified":"2024-02-20T17:02:55","modified_gmt":"2024-02-20T17:02:55","slug":"ask-a-dermatologist-how-can-i-even-out-my-skin-tone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-how-can-i-even-out-my-skin-tone\/","title":{"rendered":"Ask A Dermatologist: How Can I Even Out My Skin Tone?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/uneven-skintone-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5913\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Link to share article here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links is-style-default 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class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M21.8,8.001c0,0-0.195-1.378-0.795-1.985c-0.76-0.797-1.613-0.801-2.004-0.847c-2.799-0.202-6.997-0.202-6.997-0.202 h-0.009c0,0-4.198,0-6.997,0.202C4.608,5.216,3.756,5.22,2.995,6.016C2.395,6.623,2.2,8.001,2.2,8.001S2,9.62,2,11.238v1.517 c0,1.618,0.2,3.237,0.2,3.237s0.195,1.378,0.795,1.985c0.761,0.797,1.76,0.771,2.205,0.855c1.6,0.153,6.8,0.201,6.8,0.201 s4.203-0.006,7.001-0.209c0.391-0.047,1.243-0.051,2.004-0.847c0.6-0.607,0.795-1.985,0.795-1.985s0.2-1.618,0.2-3.237v-1.517 C22,9.62,21.8,8.001,21.8,8.001z M9.935,14.594l-0.001-5.62l5.404,2.82L9.935,14.594z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">YouTube<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ask A Dermatologist: How Can I Even Out My Skin Tone?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not uncommon to notice some small marks on your skin, especially as the years go by. Whether they\u2019re pink, brown, grey or a purplish shade, almost everyone will have a few small, darker spots on their faces.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although there\u2019s nothing wrong with these marks \u2013 they\u2019re completely normal, and you\u2019ll far more likely notice them on yourself than anyone else is \u2013 some people do want to target them and even out their skin tone. So, we sat down with Dr Beibei, dermatologist at Skin + Me, to talk about skin tone and texture, and chat about the best active ingredients to fade dark spots and illuminate the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Why is my skin tone uneven?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cSkin tone can look uneven due to the presence of brown, pink or red areas on the skin,\u201d explains Dr Beibei. \u201cBrown marks are due to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">hyperpigmentation<\/a>, which can arise due to many different reasons, but sun exposure is either a cause or catalyst for its appearance. Pink or red spots can often be due to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne <\/a>marks and blemishes or skin irritation and sensitivity.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">Hyperpigmentation <\/a>might take the form of irregular dark spots or areas, such as sun spots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is when dark brown or grey spots occur due to an increase in melanin production, caused by either sun damage or inflammation. Or, you might notice symmetrical flat patches, especially across the cheeks \u2013 this could be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/melasma-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1549\">melasma<\/a>, and is often linked to hormonal changes, which is why it\u2019s often associated with contraception and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/a-dermatologists-guide-to-pregnancy-safe-skincare\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1045\">pregnancy<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pink or red areas might be acne scars or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-what-is-post-inflammatory-erythema\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4629\">post-inflammatory erythema<\/a>, marks left over by irritation to a particular area of unhappy skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can I even out my skin tone?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, we know that there are several reasons why your skin tone might look uneven \u2013 but is there anything you can do to make it look more uniform? Well, as Dr Beibei says, treatment \u201cdepends on what the underlying cause of the uneven skin tone is\u201d \u2013 but there are several things you can do to fade away dark marks on your skin and even safeguard against future damage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A derm-approved skincare routine is one of the best ways you can smooth out your skin texture. \u201cA healthy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/your-skin-barrier-protection-guide\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2634\">skin barrier<\/a> which is less reactive is also less likely to have pink or red spots, so supporting the barrier with good skincare is key,\u201d explains Dr Beibei. Look out for moisturisers with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-ceramides\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4560\">ceramides <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-humectants\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4707\">humectants <\/a>like allantoin and betaine to nourish the skin barrier and keep your skin happy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You probably also know that we\u2019re big advocates of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/sunscreen\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/sunscreen\">sunscreen <\/a>here at Skin + Me HQ, and Dr Beibei says that \u201cSPF is <em>the <\/em>cornerstone of pigmentation prevention. Additionally, protection from high-energy visible light is important; tinted products containing iron oxide pigments, which include foundations, tinted moisturisers and tinted sunscreens, are able to do this.\u201d Wear a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every single day, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/sunscreen\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/sunscreen\">Daily Defence SPF 50 Oil-free Sunscreen<\/a> to prevent future damage and stop existing dark patches getting darker.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Certain cosmetic treatments can also help to even out your skin tone when done by a professional. Laser treatments work by stimulating cell rejuvenation and collagen production to reveal renewed skin without dark spots. Chemical peels remove the top layer of skin, which may be damaged, leaving behind newer skin which is smoother in texture and appearance. It\u2019s important to remember that results from both of these processes can vary, and you should always go to a certified professional for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-combining-cosmetic-and-beauty-treatments-with-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3265\">aesthetic treatments<\/a> to treat unwanted pigmentation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Active ingredients to even out your skin tone<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, you\u2019re using your sunscreen and you\u2019re protecting your skin barrier with a good moisturiser \u2013 but which active ingredients should you be looking out for if your priority is smoothing out your skin tone?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Vitamin C&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-vitamin-c\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4411\">Vitamin C<\/a> is one of the ingredients most-associated with treating dark spots \u2013 that\u2019s why it\u2019s the powerhouse behind our Brig<a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/serum\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/serum\">hten + Boost Regulating Vitamin C Serum<\/a>. Vitamin C works by reducing the synthesis of melanin, the pigment responsible for colour in our skin, fading dark spots and areas of unwanted pigmentation. It\u2019s also full of antioxidants, protecting your skin against the damaging effects of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-pollution-defence-and-protective-skincare\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2345\">pollution<\/a>, making it a great addition to your morning routine.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Peptides<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-peptides\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5536\">Peptides <\/a>are generating quite the buzz in skincare circles at the moment, thanks to their versatility and ability to zero in on specific skin concerns. Certain peptides (like acetyl hexapeptide-1, which is a key ingredient in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/serum\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/serum\">Brighten + Boost Regulating Serum<\/a>) are able to help fade dark spots and areas of unwanted pigmentation, so look out for them if your goal is a brighter, more illuminated complexion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tretinoin and retinol<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Retinoids such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoids\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1954\">retinol <\/a>boost skin cell turnover, which reveals new skin and helps to fade the appearance of pigmentation. They also inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin, preventing the appearance of more dark spots.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tretinoin is the most efficacious retinoid out there, as it works directly on the retinoic acid receptors, while retinol needs to be processed first. However, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/our-ingredients\/tretinoin\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/our-ingredients\/tretinoin\">tretinoin <\/a>is not available over the counter, so you can only use it if a medical professional prescribes it to you \u2013 products containing retinol don\u2019t require a prescription.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hydroquinone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For cases of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">hyperpigmentation <\/a>or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/melasma-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1549\">melasma <\/a>diagnosed by a medical professional, some experts may recommend a prescription-only ingredient called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-hydroquinone\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1558\">hydroquinone<\/a>. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the production of melanin, which helps to fade dark spots and regulate your skin tone. It\u2019s a powerful treatment that\u2019s not available over-the-counter, so you should only use it if it\u2019s been prescribed by a medical professional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Azelaic acid&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-azelaic-acid\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1236\">Azelaic acid<\/a> is an antioxidant and excellent multitasker, which helps target redness and spots along with unwanted pigmentation. Its effectiveness in treating dark spots comes from its ability to slow down production of melanin, and dermatologists sometimes use azelaic acid in combination with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-hydroquinone\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1558\">hydroquinone <\/a>as a \u201ctriple therapy\u201d when treating <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">hyperpigmentation<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to remember that nobody has a perfectly even skin tone, so it\u2019s never a good idea to focus on perfection. Instead, try creating a supportive skincare routine that will work to fade dark spots and uneven texture while supporting your skin barrier. Healthy, happy skin with a natural glow \u2013 now that\u2019s something we can all get on board with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f6fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#edf5f8\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f6fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>New to Skin + Me? <\/strong>Get your first month of personalised skincare for \u00a34.99 with promo code DOSE \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/consultation\/sign-up\/create-account\">complete our quick consultation here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking for a routine refresh? <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/login?back=%2Faccount-summary%2Fmanage-upcoming-orders\">Add the Dream Routine to your Skin + Me subscription<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>In need of a restock? <\/strong>Head to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/shop\">The Skincare Shop<\/a> for one-off purchases of your Routine Essentials.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wondering how to get rid of dark spots or marks? We talked to dermatologist Dr Beibei about the best ways to smooth out your complexion and illuminate your skin. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":179265348,"featured_media":5913,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1394,1,1967],"tags":[1424,1411,2619,1517,1568,1566,2368,2331,1382,1516,1388],"class_list":["post-5912","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ask-a-dermatologist","category-latest-articles","category-pigmentation","tag-active-ingredients","tag-dermatologist","tag-dr-beibei","tag-expert-advice","tag-hyperpigmentation","tag-pigmentation","tag-post-inflammatory-erythema","tag-post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation","tag-skin-me","tag-skin-goals","tag-skincare-routine"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5912","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/179265348"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5912"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5912\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5949,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5912\/revisions\/5949"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5913"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5912"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5912"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5912"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}