Preventing dark spots on melanin-rich skin

How to Prevent Dark Spots Before They Start

Fading dark spots takes months. Preventing them takes a few simple habits — and on melanin-rich skin, which pigments readily, prevention is the smartest strategy of all. Here's how.

1. Wear sunscreen every day

This is number one by a mile. UV exposure is a leading cause of dark spots and it darkens any you already have. SPF 30+ every morning is the single best preventive step you can take. Here's how to find one with no white cast.

2. Never pick or squeeze

Picking at pimples, scabs or ingrown hairs is a direct route to post-inflammatory dark marks. Hands off — let blemishes heal.

3. Treat breakouts gently and early

The less inflammation a breakout causes, the less likely it leaves a mark. Use gentle, non-irritating products and don't over-treat.

4. Avoid irritation

Harsh scrubs, over-exfoliation and aggressive actives can all irritate melanin-rich skin — and irritation triggers pigment. Gentle wins.

5. Manage friction and shaving

Friction from tight clothing and irritation from shaving cause dark marks on the body. Reduce rubbing, exfoliate gently to prevent ingrowns, and moisturize.

6. Stay consistent

A gentle daily routine with brightening antioxidants like Vitamin C helps keep tone even and skin resilient over time.

IYASA's Brightening Set for Melanin-Rich Skin supports an even tone day to day — SGS lab-tested, no hydroquinone. Already have spots? Start with how to fade dark spots.

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