Liver spots, age spots, sun spots, or dark spots -- whatever you call them --  these complexion foes are never welcome. Thankfully they are seldom dangerous, but they sure can be exasperating for beauties of all shades and ages.

 

The scientific name is hyperpigmentation, and these beauty adversaries are caused by many reasons:  damaging UV rays, genetics, acne scarring, and even some types of medications. And if that wasn't bad enough, hormonal havoc (think pregnancy or contraception), and normal aging can trigger dark spots or blotches on your skin, too.

 

Of course, prevention should be your first line of defense. Skincare experts say that even if your hyperpigmentation is genetic, you can still stop it from getting worse by limiting sun exposure and using a daily sunscreen. Unlucky lasses with acne should do everything in their power to avoid picking the blemishes because post-acne scarring is a huge trigger for hyperpigmentation, too.

 

Some beauties are so bummed out by dark spots that they drain their wallets on potentially dangerous chemical treatments. We get it - you want kick those dark spots to the curb… and fast!

 

But before you take drastic and costly measures, let’s explore three natural alternatives. We dug into lots and lots of research and found out that many natural ingredients can fade dark spots as well as nasty chemicals – without the troubling side effects.

Here are a three scientifically recognized natural hyperpigmentation busters that we love.

 

• Aloe Vera: Aloe contains aloin, a natural depigmenting compound that has been shown in studies to effectively brighten skin. It’s also been found to fade those dark acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) left after pimples heal. Aloe Vera gel prevents tyrosinase, the enzyme you can blame for your skin discoloration woes; essentially blocking UV-induced hyperpigmentation.

 

• Vitamin C: Since Linus Pauling’s discovery 50+ years ago, Vitamin C has been lauded for its far-reaching health benefits. One of Vitamin C’s top claims to fame is that it helps to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, which in turn prevents the production of melanin that causes the dark spots. Research suggests that it can protect against sun damage, increase collagen levels, and reduce the formation of melanin to stop hyperpigmentation.

 

• Turmeric: Yep, it’s that same vibrantly hued spice found in your favorite Indian dish. But did you know that it can also be your skin’s best friend? This bright yellow spice inhibits pigmentation in the skin and reduces the appearance of dark spots and pigmented scarring. A large study proved that a turmeric-based cream greatly reduced hyperpigmentation over the course of four weeks.

 

Many skincare experts recommend using a face mask featuring Aloe Vera, Vitamin C and Turmeric to even skin tone, replenish moisture, and more.

 

For a mask that includes these three natural superheroes as well a host of powerful skin-loving antioxidants try Gleamin™  Vitamin C Clay Mask. This multitasking marvel features an all-star lineup of proven natural ingredients for fading dark spots.