Achieve flawless skin through non-invasive treatment and skincare solutions: fade dark spots and acne scars naturally. Get laser and surgery free glowing, clear skin!

Your skin can eventually get dark spots and acne scars that are so freaking annoying, and leave you feeling helpless, particularly in today’s social media-driven world where perfect skin is the norm. Fortunately, there are many non-surgical options ranging from skincare treatments to advanced dermatological treatments, that can fade these lingering spots, giving way to a smoother, brighter complexion and rebuilding your self-esteem.

Understanding dark spots and acne scars

Dark spots or hyperpigmentation develop when certain areas of the skin produce excess melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for coloring skin. If melanin produced in excess it results in uneven skin color and dark patches. 

Common causes of dark spotsSun exposure (UV Damage)

The skin produces melanin in case of overexposure to sun as the defense mechanism. As time passes, this causes sun spots which typically develop in areas that are often exposed to sunlight, such as the face, hands and shoulders.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

In response to acne, cuts, burns or rashes, the skin can produce more melanin than usual. This leads the dark marks to persist even after the original wound or irritation has healed.

Hormonal changes

Conditions like melasma, is often brought on by pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormonal fluctuations and results in dark patches and spots in the skin, particularly on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip.

Aging

Skin gradually loses some of its ability to recover itself with passing time, and is thus more susceptible to hyperpigmentation due to cumulative sun exposure and environmental damage.

Acne scars develop when inflammation impairs the normal healing of an acne lesion. When a breakout penetrates deep into the skin, it damages the underlying tissue. The body tries to heal this damage by making collagen, but if there’s too little or too much collagen, scars form.

Types of acne scars and their causesAtrophic Scars (Depressed Scars)

Due to the loss of tissue during healing, atrophic scars show up as indentation or depressions on the skin. Common causes include:

Severe cystic acne

Prolonged inflammation

Delayed or improper healing

Types of Atrophic Scars

Ice Pick Scars: These are deep, narrow scars, similar to small pores in the skin.

Boxcar Scars: Wider, rectangular indentations with defined edges.

Rolling Scars: Wavy or uneven indentations due to loss of skin support.

Hypertrophic Scars 

These are raised, thickened scars formed from an overactive healing process.

It develops when there is excessive growth of connective tissue in the confines of the initial wound.

These mostly appear on the chest, back, and shoulders.

Keloid Scars

An aggressive type of hypertrophic scarring in which the overabundance of collagen grows beyond the edges of the original wound and creates a large, raised scar. 

More prevalent in people who have dark skin types and genetically susceptible to keloids.

Why do some people scar more than others?

Genetics: Some people produce more collagen naturally or are more prone to hyperpigmentation.

Skin type: Darker skin tones are more vulnerable to hyperpigmentation, while light skin makes red or pink scars more prominent.

Severity of acne: More severe or cystic acne is more apt to leave behind scars than light breakouts. 

Picking or squeezing pimples: This simply increases inflammation and raises scarring risk. 

Healing process: Improper skin care and repeated outbreaks can help to boost the amount of scarring. 

Knowing these causes makes it easier for you to take preventive measures and find effective treatments for dark spots and acne scars so your skin looks more clear and healthier.

Effective topical treatments

Retinoids

Retinoids help speed up the turnover of skin cells, which can help fade or lighten dark spots and improve skin texture. Common types include:

Retinol (OTC)

Tretinoin (prescription)

Vitamin C

A potent antioxidant that brightens the skin and diminishes pigmentation.

For optimal results, use serums with L-ascorbic acid.

Niacinamide

Commonly referred to as Vitamin B3, niacinamide helps in minimizing redness along with dark spots.

Common in serums and moisturizers.

Azelaic Acid

Good for acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Suitable for sensitive skin types.

Kojic Acid

This plant-based ingredient, made from fermented rice. Kojic acid prevents melanin production.

Aids in brightening dark spots over time.

Professional non-surgical treatments for dark spots and acne scars

Chemical Peels

Glycolic or salicylic acid to slough off dead skin layers.

Helps with skin tone and texture.

Can be done in mild, medium, or deep strengths depending on skin concerns.

 Microneedling

Triggers collagen production by creating micro-injuries.

It helps in fading scars and pigmentation.

Can also be done with face PRP for better results

Facial Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Patient’s own blood is used for skin healing and renewal

It promotes collagen syntheses and makes skin texture better.

Usually used along with microneedling for efficient results.

Microdermabrasion

Gently exfoliates the skin’s surface.

Best for mild hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

Requires multiple sessions for optimal results.

Dermabrasion

A more intensive exfoliation compared to microdermabrasion.

Effective for deeper acne scars.

Requires longer recovery time.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy

Uses light energy to treat dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Reduces textural imperfections with little downtime.

Cryotherapy

Uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove dark spots.

Best for age spots and hyperpigmentation.

Radiofrequency Therapy

Stimulates collagen production to improve acne scars.

Works well for atrophic scars and skin tightening.

Natural remedies for removing dark spots and acne scars

Remedy

How to use

Do’s

Don’ts

Skin type

Honey and Apple cider vinegar

Apply the diluted vinegar for 5 minutes, rinse and

then apply honey for 20 minutes

Use raw vinegar and moisturize after

Avoid on sensitive skin and don’t leave vinegar too long

Oily, combo and normal

Turmeric and Honey/Yogurt

Apply paste for 15 minutes and then rinse

Use organic turmeric, mix with honey for hydration

Can stain skin, avoid overuse

All skin types but best for acne-prone dull skin

Aloe vera

Apply fresh gel overnight, rinse in morning

Use fresh gel and do patch test first

Avoid on broken skin

Best for dry and sensitive skin

Lemon Juice

Apply diluted juice for 10 minutes and rinse

Use at night with sunscreen

Always use dilute and apply at night

Don’t use undiluted and avoid if skin is sensitive

Oily and combo

Green tea

Apply cooled tea with cotton pad and no rinse

Use fresh tea and can be applied daily

Avoid hot application

Best for acne prone and inflamed skin

Potato juice

Apply juice for 20 minutes and rinse

Use raw potato and can apply daily

Avoid on irritated skin

Best for pigmented and dull skin

Cucumber

Apply blended cucumber as mask for 20 minutes and rinse

Use chilled for soothing effect

Avoid if allergic

Best for dry and sensitive skin

Skin whitening injections and Glutathione injection price What Are Skin Whitening Injections?

Glutathione is a popular skin whitening injection to lighten the skin and reduce pigmentation. Glutathione is a strong antioxidant that decreases melanin synthesis and promotes a fairer skin. ​ 

Cost of glutathione injection 

The glutathione injection price differs according to the clinic area, brand of the injection, and the delivered dosage. ​ ​

Per Session Cost: Average cost of one session is PKR 5,000 to PKR 15,000. Some clinics charge PKR 15,000 per session, or offer packages like four sessions at PKR 40,000. ​ 

Full Treatment Plans: Full treatment plans usually consist of 8-12 sessions may range between PKR 40,000 to PKR 120,000 depending upon the clinic and individual protocol. 

Product Packages: Some providers offer packages for multiple sessions. A 10-session package of Nexus Pharma Glutanex Whitening Injection is priced at PKR 54,000. 

Are skin whitening injections safe?

While glutathione injections have worked wonders for thousands of people. It is essential to visit a qualified dermatologist before undergoing the treatment. Potential side effects include:​

Skin rashes or sensitivity​

Gastrointestinal discomfort​

Allergic reactions

Some risks can be avoided, if licensed professionals in reliable clinics carry out the treatments. ​

Preventive measures to avoid dark spots and scars

Use SPF 30+ daily to prevent pigment due to sunlight. 

Wash, Scrub, and moisturize daily.

Add a diet high in antioxidants, such as berries and green tea.

You don’t need invasive procedures to fade dark spots and acne scars. By using the right combination of topical treatments, professional care, and natural remedies, you can help your skin clear up. Skin whitening injections can also be a good choice for those who want to achieve a more consistent color all over their body, though you should take into consideration the glutathione injection price and the safety of these procedures. You should always consult a dermatologist to find the most effective skin treatment for your skin type. 

FAQsHow long do it take for home remedies to show results? 

It varies and depends on product and skin type, but noticeable improvement should take 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use.

Does lemon juice really help with dark spots?

Yes, but it should be diluted before use, and you should wear sunscreen afterward to prevent irritation and sensitivity to the sun. 

Can glutathione injections permanently whiten skin?

Results vary; glutathione injections tend to lighten the skin and lower pigmentation, but maintenance injections may be required on a continuous basis for permanent results.

What is the best skincare routine for acne scars?

Gentle exfoliation, vitamin C serum, proper hydration and professional treatments like a chemical peel or face PRP can assist in fading scars.

Which home remedy works the fastest for dark spots?

Diluted lemon juice, turmeric, and aloe vera, as part of a combination, can be an effective skin treatment, but it depends on skin type as well as consistency of use. 

Can stress cause dark spots?

Yes, the stress-induced hormonal imbalance can cause hyper-pigmentation and breakouts and worsen the dark spots.