Dark Spots and Marks

The good news is your acne is gone. The bad news? It left behind some evidence. Sometimes it’s in the form of acne scars, but often these are pigmented dark spots or marks that appear after pimples have healed. The technical name for these unpleasant acne reminders is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and they typically appear tan or dark brown in color. Without treatment, darks spots and marks may take months to years to fade away.

How to Get Rid of Dark Spots

The best defense is a good offense, so using a Proactiv treatment system to prevent acne breakouts from forming and reaching the skin’s surface can keep dark spots from appearing in the first place.

There is more than one treatment option if you’re looking to get rid of post-acne dark spots, including over the counter topical products, prescription medications, and medical procedures.

We recommend Proactiv Re-Texturizing Toner, which are formulated with glycolic and salicylic acids to promote even skin tone and texture and help reduce the appearance of post-acne dark spots and marks.

Increased sun exposure can also exacerbate your post-acne dark spots or worse, create new dark spots that have nothing to do with acne. Use a noncomedogenic (non pore-clogging) sunscreen to help protect your skin against the sun’s damaging rays and keep your dark spots from getting worse.