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Dark spots seemingly pop up the quickest yet take the longest to fade away. Usually, it begins with a little pimple or a cluster of breakouts; you pick and prod at it until it becomes a scab, and then you're stuck dealing with the aftermath: discoloration. Fret not; those pesky visitors are more common than not and can be zapped away with an effective dark spot corrector—and daily sunscreen use, of course.
"Dark spots are often a result of an inflammatory skin process, like acne, eczema, and psoriasis," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. "Dark spots are more common in people of color due to hyperactive melanocytes–pigment-making cells. By far, pimples are the most common cause of dark spots. Dark spots are very hard to treat and treatment requires a multimodal approach.
Whether dealing with melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or any kind of discoloration that won't fade, many incredible dark spot correctors on the market can banish them for good. The key is to be consistent, apply sunscreen, and be patient–they won't be gone by morning. Here, find the 15 best dark spot correctors for every skin type.
Pros
Gently evens tone
Cons
- Pricey
Eadem's inaugural product was formulated to specifically attack dark spots. The milky, lightweight formula also targets post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation to keep discoloration and dullness at bay for as long as possible.
Key ingredients: Amber algae, papaya extracts, niacinamide, vitamin C
Sephora star rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “This serum has become my new holy grail product! I get a lot of dark spots and hyperpigmentation and this serum has helped fade them and prevent new ones. The milky texture is SO nice and not sticky at all.”
Pros
- Noticeable results almost immediately
Cons
- Super pricey
Even the most stubborn scars don't stand a chance against SkinMedica's powerful treatment. Without using retinol or hydroquinone—two very potent ingredients used to fade scarring and improve texture—this brightening treatment is supported by niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and lotus sprout extract, all working together to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation while brightening.
Key ingredients: lotus sprout extract, tranexamic acid, niacinamide
Pros
- Effective with frequent use
Cons
- Strong smell
Do yourself a favor and type “Topicals Faded” into your TikTok search bar. The before-and-afters will absolutely blow your mind. Scars, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots of every kind don’t stand a chance.
Key ingredients: tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and azelaic acid
Sephora star rating: 3.6/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “Ok, please get over the smell cause this product has changed my skin. It took about a week or 2 to see results, but oh my god, the results are amazing. The only product that has cleared my discoloration almost fully and I’ve been dealing with it for years. I would 200% recommend this.”
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Pros
- Super affordable
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
This product has been called a holy grail on TikTok, and they’re not exaggerating. Even stubborn hyperpigmentation like melasma and sun damage can be reversed with just a few weeks of using this low-cost serum. You should start taking selfies now because you won’t recognize your skin in a few weeks.
Key ingredients: tranexamic acid, niacinamide
Ulta star rating: 4/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer said: “I’ve already commented about this but I’ve been using it for a couple of months now and I see a huge difference in my skin. I’m in love, I just bought my 2nd bottle.”
5
Best For Fine Lines
Dr Dennis Gross C + Collagen Brighten & Firm Vitamin C Serum
Pros
- Brightens dull skin
Cons
- Pricey
This serum does it all: it can brighten dull skin, even skin tone, reduce fine lines, and protect the skin from environmental aggressors. If you still haven’t found your perfect vitamin C serum, give this one a go.
Key ingredients: vitamin C, niacinamide
Amazon star rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “Great product. I have been using it for about a year and have noticed my complexion is much brighter, dark spots are lighter, and gives a nice glow. The price is good too.”
6
Best For Post-Breakout Dark Spots
Differin Dark Spot Correcting Face Serum
Pros
- Gently fades scars without irritation
Cons
- Some may dislike the scent
If you’ve experienced a breakout, you know that fading the marks left on your skin can be just as aggravating. This serum uses niacinamide to tackle stubborn post-inflammation hyperpigmentation. Plus, it’s gentle enough for even sensitive skin to use daily.
Key ingredients: niacinamide
Amazon star rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I have struggled with acne my whole life. This one is an absolute game changer!! I have dark spots from my cystic acne and this has definitely lightened up my spots almost immediately.”
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7
Best For Quick Results
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
Pros
- Boost brightness and texture
Cons
- Pricey
If you’re looking for speedy results, this serum can dramatically reduce dark spots in as little as two weeks. It uses a powerful blend of pigment-reducing and skin-brightening ingredients to give you clear, even skin.
Key ingredients: tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide
Dermstore star rating: 4.32/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer said: “I have hyperpigmentation and acne-prone skin. I love this product! It doesn’t make me break out and helps with hyperpigmentation. You don’t need a lot, so it lasts a long time.”
8
Best For Dull Skin
Hyper Skin Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum
Pros
- Pump deposits the right amount of product
Cons
- Takes time to see results
Sallow skin needs a powerful dose of vitamin C, which is exactly what this serum offers. The best part? It also helps even out unwanted texture and fades dark spots that love to stick around post-breakout.
Key ingredients: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, kojic acid
Sephora star rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “The results are amazing! I’ve never seen another product work as well as this one. My skin has never looked this healthy before. This serum is a must-have! Especially if you struggle with hyperpigmentation.”
9
Best For Oily Skin
CLINIQUE Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter Serum
Pros
- Good for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Pricey
If you're acne-prone or looking for a dark spot serum that doesn't clog pores, this one was made just for you. This serum helps exfoliate dead skin cells, which helps your skin recover more quickly.
Key ingredients: salicylic acid, vitamin C, glucosamine
Sephora star rating: 3.6/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “I'm often trying new products for dulness, dark spots and uneven skin tone. This one worked for me as it visibly helped my overall complexion.”
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10
Best For Wrinkles
Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector
Pros
- Infused with hyaluronic acid for soothing irritated skin
Cons
- May not be suited for very sensitive skin
If you’re looking for an ingredient to help your skin turn back the clock, look no further than retinol. This serum combines retinol with vitamin C to quickly resurface and brighten dark spots and uneven texture. Not to mention, it helps fade the look of wrinkles and fine lines, too.
Key ingredients: retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid
Amazon star rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “It has lightened up my melasma and I’ve only been using it a few weeks. Definitely worth trying! I’ve had melasma for almost 2 years now. I’ve done laser and lotion treatments. I ran out of the prescription lotion and I wanted to try this. So far it is working. It hasn’t completely gone away, but it has lightened it up drastically. I also use a regular moisturizer afterward because it does make your skin feel dry.”
11
Best For Uneven Skin Tone
Caudalie Vinoperfect Anti Dark Spot Serum
Now 50% Off
Pros
- Gentle for everyday use
Cons
- Strong smell
If you’re looking to create a canvas that is so even it looks like you’re wearing foundation on no-makeup days, try out this serum. It went viral on TikTok for its bold before-and-afters. Use it daily for a month, and you’ll see an incredible difference.
Key ingredients: vine sap viniferine, squalane
Sephora star rating: 4.2/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “I love this stuff...it has worked wonders for me. My skin is so smooth. I use this with other products from this brand and it has really transformed my skin. I noticed when I did wear makeup, it laid much smoother, and I used less. This stuff is amazing..and I only use it once a day.”
Pros
- Works while you sleep
Cons
- Needs to be replaced frequently
If you want to launch a targeted attack on a dark mark, this microdart patch is the perfect nighttime accessory. It’s perfect to use post-breakout on that leftover mark that just won’t go away.
Key ingredients: kojic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, tranexamic acid, hyaluronic acid
Amazon star rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “Only used 2 patches, and so far, it’s helped lighten a dark spot I’ve had for years. Even if it doesn’t fully get rid of it, the improvement has been worth it.”
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13
Best For Professional Results
PCA SKIN Pigment Gel Pro
Pros
- Hyaluronic acid calms skin
Cons
- Can be intense for weak skin barriers
If you were an avid hydroquinone user, try this over-the-counter serum instead. Not only does this product fade even the most stubborn forms of discoloration, but it helps protect and strengthen your skin from developing hyperpigmentation in the future.
Key ingredients: niacinamide, lactic acid, gluconolactone, tranexamic acid, hyaluronic acid
Dermstore star rating: 5/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer said: “I’ve never tried PCA skin products before, but I was super excited to get this Pigment pro serum in one of my Beautyfix boxes. When it comes to lightening agents my skin can be quite sensitive. However, this formula isn’t irritating at all and you see a difference rather quickly. Def recommend.”
14
Best For Acne-Prone Skin
Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Azelaic Acid Booster Cream Gel
Pros
- Great for mature skin
Cons
- Small tube for the price
If you're suffering from acne and are looking for a product that treats both active breakouts and lingering hyperpigmentation, this gel does it all. It gently exfoliates the skin, and you can combine it with a moisturizer if your skin is very sensitive.
Key ingredients: azelaic acid, salicylic acid
Amazon star rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I know it's a little expensive, but I've tried the cheaper stuff, and it just doesn't work as well. I've got rosacea and other skin issues and this really seems to help. I'm 68 with problem skin and it does make a huge difference when I use it. Highly recommend!”
15
Best For Sun Damage
Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum
Pros
- Targets sun damage and texture
Cons
- Can feel sticky
If you’ve experienced sun damage that left you with freckles or dark spots, it’s time to use this serum. It works quickly to resurface the skin, winding back the clock on all kinds of damage.
Key ingredients: tranexamic acid, resorcinol acid, glycolic acid
Sephora star rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “I have been using this product for 15 days now and most of my acne scars have reduced and I’m seeing a cleaner and brighter face.”
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16
Best For Sensitive Skin
Kiehl's Since 1851 Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution
Pros
- Targets textured skin
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
Not only does this serum use natural extracts to brighten and add a glow to dull skin, but it also helps fade dark spots over time, without the use of acids that some people with sensitive skin can’t tolerate.
Key ingredients: vitamin C
Sephora star rating: 3.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer said: “It works if you stick with it in a daily night routine!! Dark spots have faded in 2 weeks. Be realistic with your expectations. 2 weeks, Wait!!!”
What causes dark spots?
It's important to watch dark spots carefully, as they can also be a sign of more serious illness. "They can be a sign of sun damage and occasionally these can be concerning for skin cancer and should be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist, particularly in fair-skinned individuals. Treatment starts with strict sun protection using broad-spectrum sunscreen and frequent reapplication," adds Dr. Ibrahimi.
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17
Can topical creams or serums fade dark spots?
"Using a fading cream or serum once a day in conjunction with sunscreen can significantly reduce the appearance of dark spots," says Dr. Karan Lal. Although a dermatologist can prescribe hydroquinone, there are lots of over-the-counter ingredients that can also be effective. For Dr. Ibrahimi, vitamin C, kojic acid, arbutin, lignin peroxidase, aleosin, and cystamine are some of his favorite dark-spot fading ingredients. As with most skincare routines, it's important to keep to a regimented routine. "Persistence is key!" notes Dr. Lal.
18
What are some in-office treatments that can help correct dark spots?
If topical creams aren’t bringing you the desired results, in-office treatments can be very beneficial. “Chemical peels are the backbone of dark spot treatment,” says Dr. Lal. “They are safe and multiple treatments are required. If chemical peels don’t work or help, picosecond pigment lasers can be used to break up pigment. Fractional nonablative lasers can also help break up pigment. Often times we use a combination approach with creams and chemical peels with or without lasers. The earlier you seek treatment, the better your chances are at getting rid of the dark spots.”
Tatjana Freund
Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor
Tatjana Freund is Hearst's Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor, covering beauty, fashion and more across multiple brands. Previously, she worked at ELLE.com and Marie Claire. She's a fan of whiskey neat, podcasts that give her nightmares, and one time Zoë Kravitz laughed at a joke she made.
