- Acne 101
Acne in skin of color
Specialized Acne Treatment for Patients with Skin of Color
For many patients with skin of color, the dark spots left behind concern them more than the acne itself. Here is how we treat both.
Causes & Options
Acne Center of Michigan specializes in treating acne in patients with skin of color. This includes African American descent, Middle Eastern descent, and Asian descent, among others.
When patients with skin of color present with acne, they are often more concerned with the dark spots rather than the acne pimples themselves. This is because the hyperpigmentation that develops from acne leads to an uneven skin tone which is upsetting.
In those with fair complexion, there is often persistent redness left behind after an acne lesion. However, in patients with skin of color, the pigment cells pump out too much pigment. This leaves a persistent dark reminder of the previous acne lesion.
- Fair complexion
- Acne tends to leave persistent redness behind.
- Skin of color
- Acne tends to leave persistent dark spots behind.
The first step in helping these unsightly dark spots is to control the active acne and prevent new dark spots from forming. We recommend aggressive treatment with ACOM specialized topical creams and often simultaneous use of oral antibiotics to reduce the inflammation and prevent new dark spots.
Treatment of Dark Spots
Once the acne is under control, we then focus on achieving an even skin tone. The best options for dark spots:
- Triple Therapy Bleaching Cream™ – available through prescription only
- Beta lift salicylic acid peel
- VI Peel Precision plus ™
- And of course, sun protection with use of sunscreens is a must, with our preference being Elta MD Clear™
- Before and after: controlling acne and restoring an even skin tone in skin of color.
Frequently asked questions
Why do dark spots concern patients with skin of color?
In skin of color the pigment cells produce too much pigment after an acne lesion, leaving persistent dark spots and uneven tone. For many patients these marks are more bothersome than the pimples themselves.
What is the first step in treating acne in skin of color?
The first step is to control the active acne and prevent new dark spots from forming, often with ACOM specialized topical creams and, when needed, oral antibiotics to reduce inflammation.
How are existing dark spots treated?
Once the acne is under control we focus on an even skin tone using options such as Triple Therapy Bleaching Cream, Brightening Pads for Dark Spots, a beta lift salicylic acid peel, and the VI Peel Precision Plus.
Does the Acne Center of Michigan treat all skin tones?
Yes. The practice specializes in treating acne in patients with skin of color, including those of African American, Middle Eastern, and Asian descent, among others.
Is sun protection important for dark spots?
Yes. Daily sunscreen is essential to keep dark spots from worsening, and our preference is EltaMD Clear.
Explore other Acne 101 topics
Patient testimonials
4.9
Based on Google reviews
HOUR Detroit Top Doc
Recognized dermatologist
- HOUR Detroit Magazine's Top Docs
About Craig Singer MD Dermatology
Located in Bingham Farms, Acne Center Of Michigan was founded by Dr. Craig Singer, a board-certified dermatologist.
We specialize in the treatment of acne and acne scarring, offering numerous therapeutic options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Singer experienced significant acne when he was in college and has personal experience with his teenage children’s acne as well. He has helped thousands of patients look their best.
Acne Center of Michigan offers the most advanced acne treatments, drawing from both traditional and alternative approaches. Dermatologists across the region refer their most complex acne-scar cases to Dr. Singer, and patients travel from across Michigan, neighboring states, and Canada for his care.
Board-Certified
Dermatologist
Thousands of patients
Helped look their best
