How to fade spots on both sides of the cheekbones

Generally, spots on both sides of the cheekbones refer to malar pigmentation, which may be caused by factors such as aging, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, poor lifestyle habits, endocrine disorders, or seborrheic keratosis. These spots can be lightened under medical guidance through treatments like photorejuvenation, laser pigmentation removal, chemical peels (e.g., fruit acid peeling), or medication. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

As people age, the skin gradually ages, metabolism slows down, and the ability to metabolize pigment decreases, leading to the formation of malar spots. It's important to maintain a healthy sleep schedule and avoid staying up late. Photorejuvenation treatment, performed under a doctor’s guidance, uses intense pulsed light on the skin to break down pigment particles and stimulate collagen production, thereby fading dark spots. The typical reference cost for photorejuvenation is 5,000–12,000 RMB per session. Improvement is usually seen within 5–10 days after treatment, although side effects such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may occur.

2. UV Radiation

Prolonged sun exposure without proper sun protection causes UV rays to stimulate melanin production in the skin, resulting in pigment deposition and the appearance of malar spots. It is recommended to take protective measures when outdoors, such as applying sunscreen, wearing hats, or using umbrellas. Laser pigmentation removal, conducted under medical supervision, uses targeted laser energy to destroy pigment particles, which are then naturally metabolized and eliminated by the body. The typical reference cost for laser spot removal ranges from 2,000 to 12,000 RMB per session. Results are generally visible within 3–7 days post-treatment, though temporary skin sensitivity may occur.

3. Poor Lifestyle Habits

Irregular sleep patterns, unbalanced diet, and lack of physical activity can disrupt pigment metabolism, causing excess pigment to accumulate on the cheekbones and form malar spots. Adjusting daily routines and ensuring sufficient sleep are essential. Under medical advice, chemical peels using fruit acids (alpha hydroxy acids) can be applied to the skin surface to promote exfoliation of dead skin cells and accelerate skin turnover, helping fade malar pigmentation. The typical reference price for fruit acid peels is 2,000–6,000 RMB per session. Improvements are often noticeable within 1–2 days after treatment, but side effects such as redness, swelling, or stinging may occur.

4. Endocrine Imbalance

Chronic stress, emotional fluctuations, and poor dietary habits may lead to endocrine disorders, disrupting normal melanin metabolism and eventually causing malar spots. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as mood swings, insomnia, and vivid dreams. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan (Free and Easy Wanderer Plus), Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pills), or Vitamin E soft capsules.

5. Seborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic keratosis is commonly associated with skin aging and genetic factors. It may cause thickening of the skin’s keratin layer and pigment deposition, gradually leading to malar spots. Additional symptoms include rough, dry, and flaky skin. Under medical guidance, topical treatments such as tretinoin cream, fluorouracil cream, or triamcinolone acetonide and urea cream may be used.

If necessary, it is recommended to visit a reputable medical facility and undergo these procedures under the supervision of qualified professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness. In daily life, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, managing emotional well-being, enhancing skin hydration and cleansing, and using gentle skincare products can help prevent and improve the development of malar spots.