Unfortunately, dark spots can be one of the most common (also, totally normal and natural) skin concerns that get in the way of your #glowyskingoals. Whether you have acne scars, age spots, or sun spots, any dark mark on the skin is considered hyperpigmentation, and it happens when excess melanin—the pigment that makes up your skin’s color—forms in the skin.

Meet Our Experts: Oma Agbai, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Health Sciences Clinical Professor at the University of California, Davis Medical Center, Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatolgist and founder of Entière Dermatology, Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in NYC, Joshua Zeichner, MD, dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at NYC’s Mount Sinai Hospital, Laura Scott, MD, dermatologist based in San Diego, CA, Mona Gohara, MD, board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine, Tiffany Clay, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in Atlanta, GA, Britt Craiglow, MD, dermatologist in Fairfield, CT, Carl Thornfeldt, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Epionce Skincare

Dermatologist Oma Agbai, MD, says one of the most common types of hyperpigmentation is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The after-effect of inflammatory skin conditions like acne or eczema, these result in excess melanin in affected areas. And, as annoying as it may feel, many of you may have experienced post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation lasting long after those skin issues have healed—something Dr. Agbai says is extremely common.

Some people are more prone to dark spots and pigmentation than others. “Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation because they have more cells in the skin that make melanin,” says Dr. Agbai. “Contrarily, people with lighter skin tones are more likely to develop solar lentigos [sun or age spots] by UV radiation from the sun.”

See below for the 19 best dermatologist-recommended dark spot correctors and pigmentation removers. Shop your whole bright, glowy skincare routine here, with serums, masks, moisturizers, toners, and more to choose from.

1. L’Oréal Paris 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

“Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals from causing oxidative damage to the skin and blocks enzymatic processes that make more pigment in the skin,” explains Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, FAAD. Translation? This L’Oreal serum will help stop those two causes of brown spots in their tracks.

Rave Review: “I started using this about three weeks ago and I noticed a huge difference in the softness of my skin and one dark age spot near my cheek is much lighter. I love the texture of this and will continue to purchase it.”

2. Farmacy Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer

“Melanin goes into overproduction in the sun to protect our skin from harmful UV/UB rays, causing them to look darker than your natural skin tone,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue. She recommends an antioxidant-rich product, like this honey-packed one from Farmacy, to protect skin against damage from free radicals like UV rays and pollution.

Rave Review: “I have dry, sensitive skin. This hasn’t made me break out. It’s very moisturizing, and looks good under makeup. The smell is light—not too strong. I find it pleasant. My search for my holy grail moisturizer is over. You have to get this, YOU HAVE TO!!”

3. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Best Splurge

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-ascorbic acid

Best Splurge

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic with 15% L-ascorbic acid

Pros

• Formulated with a research-backed combination of ingredients
• Liquid formula leaves skin dewy

Cons

• Expensive

Key Ingredients	Vitamins C and E
Product Type	Serum
Skin Type	Dry, Normal, Combination, Sensitive
Cruelty-Free	Yes

One of Dr. Levin’s favorite products for increasing brightness, SkinCeuticals’ serum packs in 15 percent of brightening antioxidants vitamin C and E. It’s definitely a splurge, but if you can afford it, you’ll love how lightweight the water-like consistency feels despite the high concentration of potent ingredients.

Rave Review: “I’ve tried a variety of different brands’ vitamin C serums and this is by far my favorite. It absorbs quickly and I’ve already seen a noticeable difference in the brightness of my skin since I began using it about a month ago.”

4. Fresh Vitamin Nectar Glow Mist

Best Dark Spot Correcting Facial Mist

fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Mist

Best Dark Spot Correcting Facial Mist

fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Mist

Pros

• Convenient mist application
• Very hydrating on dry skin

Cons

• May not tackle stubborn spots

Key Ingredients	Fruit extracts
Product Type	Face Mist
Skin Type	Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive
Cruelty-Free	No

Fresh’s mist has a water-like formula that’s designed to really penetrate the skin deeply, so it can easily be used like a serum, but the fine mist also works great as a moisturizer, setting spray, or even makeup primer. Joshua Zeichner, MD, dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at NYC’s Mount Sinai Hospital, loves that the formula packs in antioxidants. “Vitamins C and E are potent antioxidants that work together to prevent free radical damage to the skin and interfere with the production of excess pigmentation,” he says.

Rave Review: “I use this all throughout the day as a refresher for my skin and I love it. It smells amazing and it lasts a very long time for a small bottle. Highly recommend.”

5. Garnier SkinActive Dark Spot Corrector

Best Dark Spot Corrector With AHAs

Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector

Best Dark Spot Corrector With AHAs

Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector

Pros

• Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate skin
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Small tube

Key Ingredients	Vitamin C, LHA, and an antioxidant complex
Product Type	Cream
Skin Type	All
Cruelty-Free	Yes

Lipo-hydroxy acid is the powerhouse in this affordable dark spot corrector. “Hydroxy acids are an effective way of exfoliating dead cells from the surface of the skin to enhance radiance and improve hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Zeichner.

Rave Review: “I wish I would have taken before and after photos, but this product is making a difference. My dark splotches have noticeably lightened after just a few weeks of use. I have been applying it to areas where years of sun damage have darkened my face. I’m very happy with the product and will purchase again and recommend to others.”

6. Sunday Riley CEO Glow Face Oil

Dermatologist Laura Scott, MD works with a lot of melasma and acne-prone patients, so if you’re in the same boat as they are, this is definitely the option for you. “I love the formulation in this. It has turmeric in it, so I use it to treat inflammation on my acne-prone skin, and it also brightens it,” she says. “I have a lot of melasma patients and I’ll recommend this to them, too.”

Rave Review: “This oil was a complete game-changer for my face. I suffer from rosacea, and this product helped to clear up the small bumps. I was completely shocked, as I bought this initially for my dry skin—bonus! I love the way it feels and how it makes my skin look. This oil is now a part of my daily routine. Buy it!”

7. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Acne Scars

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Acne Scars

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Pros

• Works well to address acne scarring
• Uses clinically-proven ingredients

Cons

• Expensive

Key Ingredients	Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide
Product Type	Serum
Skin Type	Dry, Normal, Oily, Combination
Cruelty-Free	Yes

Dark spots are no match for the triple threat of kojic acid, tranexamic acid, and vitamin B3 in this serum, according to Dr. Engelman.“It’s clinically proven to improve brown patches, skin discoloration, and acne marks,” she says. Reviewers with acne scars particularly love this one, though it won’t work overnight—you’ll want to be patient and give it at least two months to see long-lasting results.

Rave Review: “I’ve had discoloration on one side of my face since I was a child. I found the product a little expensive but I decided to give it a try anyway. I used it for about two weeks and to my surprise, it took the discoloration away. I was happy since I’ve had this issue since I was a child. It works and it works fast. It’s a great product.”

8. The Ordinary Peeling Solution

Best Exfoliating Dark Spot Corrector

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Best Exfoliating Dark Spot Corrector

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Pros

• Contains a powerful blend of exfoliating acids
• Excellent value

Cons

• May be too strong for some

Key Ingredients	AHA and BHA
Product Type	Liquid peel
Skin Type	Any
Cruelty-Free	Yes

This little guy rose to TikTok fame recently, and with good reason. For Dr. Engelman, getting bright and glowy skin is all in the use of acids. This has plenty of them, from lactic to glycolic, citric, hyaluronic, and salicylic acid. “Each acid provides exfoliation to help enhance skin texture and reveal healthy new cells,” she says.

Rave Review: “This is my second purchase and it works well for me. I have oily and sensitive skin and use it about two times per week and it really works for my acne scars to fade, but it makes your face dry, so use a moisturizer everyday. I would definitely say it’s a great value for the price.”

9. Ambi Hydroquinone-Free Fade Cream

Best Dark Spot Corrector With Aloe Vera

Ambi Fade Cream Hydroquinone-Free

Best Dark Spot Corrector With Aloe Vera

Ambi Fade Cream Hydroquinone-Free

Pros

• No longer contains hydroquinone
• Excellent value

Cons

• Tube is small

Key Ingredients	Niacinamide and aloe vera
Product Type	Cream
Skin Type	All
Cruelty-Free	No

Ambi’s Fade Cream has a new and improved formula that’s now hydroquinone-free. (They used the ingredient in their original fade cream but don’t anymore.) Still, reviews say it’s still effective on dark spots and doesn’t irritate their skin.

Rave Review: “I was skeptical since I’ve been using the hydroquinone one for years and love it, but I gave it a try and I’m so happy I did. The tube is smaller, but it feels richer and a little goes a long way. I love the way it makes my skin feel and it seems to work on my dark spots left from acne, so I will continue using it.”

10. BYBI Bakuchiol Booster

Best Dark Spot Correcting Booster

BYBI 1% Bakuchiol in Olive Squalane Oil Booster

Best Dark Spot Correcting Booster

BYBI 1% Bakuchiol in Olive Squalane Oil Booster

Pros

• Can be added to any existing moisturizer
• Uses a natural alternative to retinol

Cons

• Small bottle

Key Ingredients	Bakuchiol and squalane
Product Type	Serum
Skin Type	Dry
Cruelty-Free	Yes

“Bakuchiol is a retinoid alternative that’s well-tolerated, and works great with vitamin C to even out skin tone,” says Mona Gohara, MD. Mix this “booster” in with any of your vitamin C moisturizers or serums, or use it alone as the last step in your routine. The ultra hydrating formula is great for dry skin types.

Rave Review: “Tried it to help with hormonal breakouts. It helped some, and lightened some discoloration from past breakouts. Purchased another product with a higher percentage that broke me out. I’m returning to this product.”

11. Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

If you’re looking for a good drugstore dark spot treatment, Dr. Zeichner loves this one from Neutrogena. “The combination of vitamin C and retinol helps block excess pigment production and enhances shedding skin cells that contain extra pigment,” he says.

Rave Review: “I hardly ever write reviews but I’m really happy with this product. One week in and I’m noticing a difference. For the price, I highly recommend giving it a shot. My overall skin tone has improved and it has lightened a dark spot. I’m excited to see how it continues to help over time.”

12. Differin Dark Spot Correcting Gel

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Acne Sufferers

Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Acne Sufferers

Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Now 11% Off

Pros

• Works well to also fight acne
• Works well on acne scars

Cons

• May be irritating

Key Ingredients	Adapalene (a retinoid)
Product Type	Serum
Skin Type	Mature, normal, acne-prone
Cruelty-Free	No

“I like this gel because it contains a powerful retinoid to clear acne and prevent future pimples while preventing acne scarring,” says Dr. Engelman. “It is the first retinoid available over the counter and it is more gentle compared to other retinoids.” Just be sure to top this with an ultra hydrating moisturizer or oil if you have dry skin, since (as Engelman noted) the retinoid is quite powerful in this.

Rave Review: “I really like this serum. A tiny bit goes a long way with this one. What I specifically love is the niacinamide. It’s at four percent and it makes my skin so soft and smooth!”

13. Bushbalm Bermuda Oil

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Bikini Line

Bushbalm Bermuda Oil Dark Spot Treatment

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Bikini Line

Bushbalm Bermuda Oil Dark Spot Treatment

Pros

• Tackles dark spots on the bikini area
• Gentle formula

Cons

• May not be strong enough for stubborn spots

Key Ingredients	Coconut, lemon, and rare copaiba oil
Product Type	Oil
Skin Type	All
Cruelty-Free	Yes

Acne and dark spots don’t just happen on the face, and that’s exactly why Bushbalm made an oil that’s safe to use on even the sensitive bikini and underarm area. “For those looking to naturally brighten the skin without harsh bleaching products, this is a go-to,” says Tiffany Clay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Atlanta, GA. “Bermuda Oil works because it contains a natural exfoliant in lemon essential oil to help minimize the appearance of dark spots, and it also contains tea tree oil which helps calm inflammation.”

Rave Review: “I have literally tried everything to prevent razor burn for the past 10+ years and nothing worked. I tried products, pre-shave routines, post-shave routines, every kind of razor and shaving cream combination you can think of, and despite all my efforts, money, and time, I still always had razor burn. That all changed last week when I tried Bushbalm for the first time. I cannot believe how well this stuff works. I never write reviews. Like, this is literally the first one I’ve ever written. But seriously, if you struggle with bikini line irritation after shaving, buy this stuff for real. I’m so happy I finally found something that works and hope this review helps someone else avoid an expensive and painful 10 year-long battle to find a solution to their razor burn problems!”

14. Ranavat Resurfacing Saffron Masque

Best Dark Spot Correcting Mask

RANAVAT Flawless Veil Resurfacing AHA Saffron Masque

Best Dark Spot Correcting Mask

RANAVAT Flawless Veil Resurfacing AHA Saffron Masque

Pros

• Soothing gel formula
• Works to refine and resurface skin

Cons

• Not for truly stubborn spots

Key Ingredients	Saffron, papaya, and lotus seed
Product Type	Mask
Skin Type	Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Cruelty-Free	Yes

If normal peels make you red AF and dry you out, try this nourishing mask instead. “A light yet hydrating AHA mask, this one helps diminish dark spots when applied once per week,” says Dr. Gohara.

Rave Review: “Beautiful, luxurious packaging, right off the bat. The product has the consistency of jelly, and it smells like tea with honey. The scent is very organic…not a synthetic sort of smell at all. Once applied, the mask feels very light and gentle. I love wearing it in the summer heat while I sit in front of the air conditioner for an extra cooling affect. This is a luxurious product that is definitely worth the money. I would recommend it to people who are adverse to smells and have sensitive skin, because this is a very gentle and weightless mask.”

15. Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Daily Peel

Best Dark Spot Correcting Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

Best Dark Spot Correcting Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

Pros

• Contains a cocktail of powerful acids
• Reviewers achieve results within a matter of weeks

Cons

• May be irritating on sensitive skin

Key Ingredients	Glycolic acid (AHA), mandelic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), resveratrol, and green tea extract
Product Type	Wipes
Skin Type	Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Cruelty-Free	Yes

These hydroxy acid pads have a cult following for a good reason. “They actually contain alpha, beta hydroxy, salicylic, glycolic, and malic acid—a great combination of acids to tackle a few problems, including hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Engelman.

Rave Review: “After using this three times in a week, my skin was the BEST IT EVER LOOKED! This helped me with dry skin, uneven texture, and discoloration due to acne scars. My skin LOVES this product!!!”

16. Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

Best Dark Spot Corrector Cleanser

Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

Best Dark Spot Corrector Cleanser

Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

Pros

• Contains soy to brighten skin
• Soothing, calming formula

Cons

• Not for stubborn spots

Key Ingredients	Soy proteins, cucumber extract, and aloe vera
Product Type	Cleanser
Skin Type	Dry, combination, normal
Cruelty-Free	Yes

The radiant benefits don’t need to stop at serums, moisturizers, and masks. This makeup-removing cleanser can round out your full glowy skin routine. “Soy is a natural ingredient that has skin-brightening effects, which is why it’s commonly used in products that help lighten dark spots,” says Zeichner. It’s also particularly great for sensitive skin, even for use around the eye area to gently remove makeup.

Rave Review: “BEST EVER!!! I have tried so many different face washes for my combo acne-prone skin and this one fixed about everything in TWO DAYS. Balanced out my T-zone oiliness and improved current acne blemishes!!”

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17. Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

Best Redness Reducing Dark Spot Corrector

Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

Best Redness Reducing Dark Spot Corrector

Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

Pros

• Calms skin to reduce redness
• Oil formula deeply hydrates

Cons

• Not ideal for hyperpigmentation

Key Ingredients	Pili oil, elemi oil, squalane, evening primrose, and English lavender
Product Type	Oil
Skin Type	All
Cruelty-Free	Yes

Moisture is another key factor when it comes to treating dark spots, according to Dr. Engelman. “Adding moisture back into the skin with oils and lotions can reduce the appearance of existing dark spots and prevent new ones from forming,” she explains. This one’s packed with redness-reducing lavender, too.

Rave Review: “I love this night recovery oil! It absorbs into the face quickly and does not leave my skin feeling oily. I have also not experienced any breakouts using this product.”

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18. LiveTinted Huegard SPF30 Primer

Best SPF Dark Spot Corrector

Live Tinted Hueguard Mineral SPF 30 Primer

Best SPF Dark Spot Corrector

Live Tinted Hueguard Mineral SPF 30 Primer

Pros

• Protects skin against spot-causing UV damage
• All mineral formula

Cons

• Best for prevention, not treatment

Key Ingredients	Mineral SPF and hippophae rhamnoides oil
Product Type	Primer
Skin Type	All
Cruelty-Free	Yes

You already know how important it is to protect your skin from the sun, and Dr. Agbai stresses that sun damage can seriously exacerbate existing hyperpigmentation. She recommends her patients wear a mineral-based sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30—our editors love this one from LiveTinted, made for and by melanin-rich skin.

Rave Review: “My skin is normal-to-dry, but in the winter, it gets really dry to the point where none of my makeup goes on smoothly. This has a primer, feels so lightweight, and isn’t sticky for an SPF cream. It is the best. I’ve used it since it came out and don’t think I will go to another SPF moisturizer on the market. It’s perfect for my medium-toned complexion.”

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19. FaceHaus The Luminary Dark Spot Corrector

Best Dark Spot Corrector With Salicylic Acid

Face Haus The Luminary Dark Spot Corrector

Best Dark Spot Corrector With Salicylic Acid

Face Haus The Luminary Dark Spot Corrector

Pros

• Treats hyperpigmentation
• Exfoliates skin

Cons

• SPF should be applied after during daylight hours

Key Ingredients	Niamcinamide, sodium hyaluronate, salicylic acid, and panthenol
Product Type	Serum
Skin Type	Any
Cruelty-Free	Yes

Britt Craiglow, MD, reiterates the importance of incorporating a vitamin C serum into your routine if you want to fade dark spots. FaceHaus has a few vitamin C products as well as their brand-new dark spot corrector, which helps hyperpigmentation and improves your skin’s barrier function.

This is a new product—so, there aren’t any reviews yet. But, FaceHaus has a great rep when it comes to putting out high-quality and effective products, so our team thought it was worthy of inclusion.

What should you look for in a dark spot corrector?

Dr. Engelman is a huge fan of using acids and retinoids to achieve quick results, while Dr. Zeichner highly recommends incorporating vitamin C into your routine whenever possible if you have more sensitive skin. If your skin is ultra sensitive, stick to ingredients like soy and turmeric while making sure to wear an SPF every day.

What are the different types of dark spots?

There are several different dark spots, according to dermatologist Carl Thornfeldt, MD.

Age spots, however, are the most common, as he says that those are caused by over-exposure to sunlight or tanning beds.

What type of dark spot remover is best?

While Dr. Thornfeldt recommends a barrier-first approach to skincare with serums and lotions, the type of dark spot remover you wish to use depends on your personal preference. Consider what your skin type is (dry, sensitive, oily, etc.) and how many steps you may want to add to your routine. For example, you might like to add a mask into your nightly skincare routine, while others may prefer to use a multitasking SPF on the daily.

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Daley Quinn is a Connecticut-born, Texas-bred beauty and wellness writer living in New York City. Her work has appeared in Family Circle magazine, WWD.com, TheCut.com, TheFinancialDiet.com, and San Antonio magazine. In her off hours, you can find Daley stalking her queen, Vanessa Carlton. You can find more of her work on her website or check out her blog, The Daley Dose. 

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