How do I manage uneven tone, dark circles and acne marks?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Uneven skin tone, facial darkening, dark circles, lip pigmentation, and post-acne marks are very common concerns at your age. Most of them are related to pigmentation, sun exposure, prior acne inflammation, and sometimes genetic factors. The key to improvement is consistency and following a gentle routine rather than using too many harsh products.

Wash your face with a mild non-soap cleanser twice a day. After washing, use a moisturizer to restore your skin's barrier function. Scrubbing your skin will worsen its texture, leading to enlarged pores. You should always use sunscreen, whether you go outside or not.

To manage your hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory scars, and acne marks, I would suggest Azelaic acid 15 percent cream (Aziderm 15 percent). It is safe, effective, and well tolerated. Apply a pea-sized amount to the affected areas at night, and then follow with a light moisturizer. Start using it twice or thrice a week for 2 to 3 days, then increase the frequency to alternate days or even daily. Azelaic acid can unclog pores and reduce comedones, in addition to evening out the complexion.

Dark circles occur for many reasons, including genetics, thin under-eye skin, pigmentation, lack of sleep, stress, and nutritional deficiencies such as low iron or vitamin B12. It would be helpful to get your serum iron and vitamin B12 levels checked. Make sure you are getting adequate sleep, staying well hydrated, reducing screen time, avoiding eye rubbing, and protecting the under-eye area from sun exposure.

Lip pigmentation is often caused by sun exposure, lip licking, dehydration, matte lipsticks, or smoking. A lip balm with sunscreen during the day and a hydrating lip balm at night should be the routine. Refrain from licking your lips and minimize long-term use of highly pigmented matte lip products.

With a simple, protective routine and consistent use of sunscreen and Azelaic acid, you should gradually notice improvement in overall brightness, marks, and texture over the next few months. Consistency and patience are more important than adding multiple strong products.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach out to me again for further queries.

Thank you.