Hyperpigmentation

Dark spots may occur on black skin when the skin overproduces melanin. Melanin is the substance that gives skin its color.
Factors that can trigger excess melanin production include sun exposure and hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy.
Dark spots can also occur as a result of inflammation or trauma to the skin, such as from:
• acne
• bug bites
• burns
• cuts
• psoriasis and other skin conditions
• a reaction to skin care products

Even everyday skin care practices can contribute to the development of dark spots. Using harsh scrubs, waxing, and shaving can all cause minor skin trauma that leads to skin changes.

The treatment that a person requires will depend on their skin type and the severity of the discoloration. Dark spots are not usually harmful, so it may not be necessary to seek treatment unless a person finds them bothersome.
Treatments include:
The “wait and see” approach
In some cases, no treatment may be the best option, as the spots could go away over time.
For example, this may be the case for some types of hyperpigmentation that occur during pregnancy or those that appear after an acne pimple goes away.
In the meantime, the use of sun protection can help prevent the spots from getting darker.
Removal of the cause
If the discoloration is the result of a skin care product or certain medications, then stopping the use of these products may prevent the formation of new dark spots.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), once a person removes the cause of the spots, any existing ones will typically fade within 6 to 12 months. However, daily sunscreen use is important to help the area fade and prevent the sun from darkening it.
Darker spots may take years to fade, however. In these situations, medical treatments or skin lightening products may help.
Treatment of underlying medical conditions
Proper management of existing skin conditions, such as acne or psoriasis, is likely to help stop new spots from appearing.
Any dark spots that are already on the skin due to these conditions may then fade away over time.
Sunscreen
Adequate sun protection is advisable for everyone, regardless of skin type or color, yet or
that sunscreen use is especially low among non-Hispanic black people.
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are responsible for most dark skin spots. The UV rays trigger excess melanin production, causing new areas of hyperpigmentation and darkening existing areas.
It is recommended that everyone use sunscreen that:
• has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30
• protects against UVA and UVB rays (manufacturers may label it as broad spectrum)
• is water resistant
People should apply it to all areas of exposed skin — not just the face — and wear it year-round.

Some people claim that natural remedies can effectively reduce dark spots on black skin. The most popular remedies include:
• aloe vera gel
• green tea
• lemon juice
• soy milk
• tea tree oil
• turmeric
However, there is no scientific evidence that these natural treatments lighten areas of hyperpigmentation. Some of them may even cause other skin problems. For example, lemon juice can dry out and irritate the skin.
Overall, however, these natural products are unlikely to cause harm if people use them sparingly.