What should you know about facial treatment for pimples and dark spots?

A pimple is an inflamed or blocked follicle. After inflammation settles, the area may remain darker or lighter than nearby skin; this is often post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, rather than a permanent scar. Melasma, sun spots, tinea versicolor and other causes can also produce facial colour change, so a photograph or a quick look at the skin cannot establish the diagnosis. The pattern, texture, scale and relation to sun exposure help a clinician narrow the possibilities.

Use a gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Do not pick pimples, since added inflammation can deepen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A dermatologist may combine acne treatment with pigment-safe topical care once the cause is clear. Chemical peels, skin brightening treatment or picosecond laser treatment may be considered for selected marks, but the procedure, strength and timing should match skin type and whether acne is still active. Test unfamiliar products cautiously and stop if there is significant burning or swelling.

Seek dermatology advice for painful deep pimples, scarring, rapidly spreading pigment, a patch that bleeds or changes, or colour change with itch and scale. Prompt assessment is useful when treatment has caused blistering, marked swelling or worsening darkening. Early control of active inflammation can reduce additional marks.

Ask whether the marks are post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which acne treatment should come first, whether a procedure is suitable for your skin tone, and how to protect the result from sunlight.