Be Careful, These 3 Products Can Make Black Spots Worse

JAKARTA - Black spots are one of the skin problems that many people often experience and are not easy to overcome. The cause of black spots on the face is generally associated with sun exposure, which makes melanin production increase.

However, in addition to sun exposure, black spots can also get worse with daily habits using products. Quoted from NDTV, on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, there are several products that can trigger and make black spots worse.

1. Hair color paint

Hair color paint is often considered as a product that only has an impact on hair color. In fact, the effect on the skin around the hairline or head skin can be much wider.

Hair coloring contains PPD (paraphenylenediamine) substances, known as strong allergen and irritant. Mild irrigation or minor injuries due to exfoliation of the skin can signal melanocytes (producing pigment cells) to produce more melanin as a form of defense, which ultimately triggers black spots and worsens that already exist.

"This dam (PPD) causes dermatitis of irritan contact or Lichen planus pigmentosus, which is hyperpigmentation on all faces and necks," said the cosmetric dermatologist, Jaishree Shad.

2. Balsem or controls

Balsem products or plasters used on the forehead to relieve headaches, nasal congestion, or sore can also exacerbate black spots. The use of balsem can trigger mild local dermatitis which then develops into post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in the forehead area or around the object of use.

If the skin in the forehead area is prone to spots, the use of these products can worsen the dark color in the area. Therefore, avoid applying the Bazem directly to the facial skin.

3. Perfume

Perfumes or other fragrances that are sprayed directly into the skin, especially the neck, chest, or approaching the cheeks can trigger photochemical reactions if the skin is exposed to sunlight. Alcohol and aroma compounds can react with UV.

This can eventually trigger a pigment reaction in the skin. It can exacerbate black spots in areas that are often sprayed with perfume.