Asked in the Aisle: Fine Lines And Dark Spots

Over time skin will begin to lose its elasticity and collagen, and fine lines and wrinkles will begin to appear. You can take care of your skin by using sunscreen regularly and following a skincare regimen.

Look for a retinol formulation that has been stabilized so it won't break down.

Over time skin will begin to lose its elasticity and collagen and fine lines and wrinkles will begin to appear. You can take care of your skin by using sunscreen regularly and following a skincare regimen.

Studies have shown that topical retinol skincare creams do not increase your risk of sunburn. With or without retinol, always remember to wear sunscreen daily.

When you start with retinol, minor skin irritation may occur—that's normal. Begin with a small amount every other day for about two weeks. Then gradually increase usage once your skin adjusts to this effective ingredient and you'll be able to incorporate it into a daily skincare regime with little chance of flaking or redness.

Be sure to moisturize your face during the day if you experience any dryness or irritation, and also consider not using as often. Maybe switch to every other night, and also make sure you apply sunscreen during the day to protect all the progress you've made.

Please talk to your doctor about all products that you use or before you begin to use a product if you are pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

Dark spots are caused by UV exposure and hormonal changes. Wearing sunscreen daily is the best way to keep spots from visibly getting darker and help prevent the appearance of new spots. Exfoliating regularly with a gentle exfoliator and using a product with Vitamin C can help lighten the appearance of existing spots.

Also known as hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone is caused by an uneven distribution of pigment in the skin. Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, birth control pills and other medications can contribute to this issue. Sun exposure causes brown spots and uneven skin tone to develop as melanin is created to protect skin from UV light.

Exfoliating to remove excessive buildup of dead skin cells can help improve skin tone and allow treatment products to better penetrate skin. Use products containing Vitamin C to help even out skin tone. Daily sunscreen use is critical to prevent new discoloration from occurring. Pick a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection. Using makeup products like Neutrogena^® Prep + Correct Primer tone-correcting under foundation will help improve the appearance of skin.

Improvements in skin tone will take time. Use products regularly and make sure to wear sunscreen and skin tone will begin to improve over time.

Use sunscreen every day, all day. Stay covered up in sun-protective clothing and seek shade whenever you can. Wear a facial moisturizer with at least SPF 30 every day. One day in the sun can reverse all your hard work to keep a dark spot at bay.