Skin condition
Dark spots & hyperpigmentation
A plain-English guide from Dr. Auston Eckert — why spots stick around, and what actually fades them.
What's actually going on
Dark spots come from extra pigment left behind by the sun, age, or inflammation after a breakout or irritation. They're common and harmless, but they fade slowly — and the wrong products can make them worse before they get better.
What tends to help
- Daily sun protection — pigment darkens with UV
- Calming any inflammation that's feeding new spots
- Evidence-based ingredients used patiently
- Treating the cause, not just bleaching the spot
What I'd skip
- Aggressive 'fade' products that irritate
- Picking at breakouts (it leaves marks)
- Skipping sunscreen and undoing your progress
Spots that linger long after the cause is gone?
Start a visit and I'll assess your pigment and build a plan — which may include prescription options, including compounded brightening formulas tailored to your skin.
Start a visitA simple supporting routine
Gentle, cosmetic basics that complement your routine. These support healthy-looking skin — they aren't a treatment for dark spots. Treatment, where it's needed, comes from your visit.
Gentle Cleanser
Fragrance-free and non-stripping. Cleanses without the tight, squeaky feeling.