TL;DR
Our favorite dark spot serum is the Hyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum. Its hydrating formula helps fade existing dark spots while preventing future ones from appearing. If you're looking for a more affordable option that you can buy at your local drugstore, we recommend the Versed Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel.
Fading dark spots, sun spots, age spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation are common skin concerns. New York-based dermatologist Dr. Diane Madfes, M.D., told Byrdie that discoloration is often the result of sun damage, hormonal changes, or skin growths. It occurs when “enlarged melanocytes or increased tyrosinase—an enzyme responsible for controlling the production of melanin—causes dark spots,” she explains.
Thankfully, there are products you can use to reverse the damage. Look for over-the-counter dark spot correctors containing “topical vitamins, retinol, arbutin, and other acids—whether glycolic, mandelic, kojic, or salicylic—in low concentrations because of their exfoliating effects,” says Dr. Madfes.
We extensively researched the best dark spot correctors before taking 30 options for a spin. We tested these spot correctors for eight weeks, evaluating their dark spot-fading capabilities, timeliness of effects, and additional skin benefits. We narrowed it down to nine standout products for this roundup with the help of our research insights and dermatologist recommendations to highlight the ones worth your hard-earned money.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Best Overall, Runner-Up:
Best Budget:
Best for Sensitive Skin:
Fenty Skin Watch Ya Tone 5% Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum at Amazon$38
Best Splurge:
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:
Dr. Barbara Sturm Untinted Clarifying Spot Treatment at Bluemercury.com$55
Best Brightening:
What We Like
Fades existing dark spots
Prevents future dark spots from forming
Includes hydrating hyaluronic acid
What to Consider
Takes about one month to notice results
Key Ingredients:Vitamin C,hyaluronic acid, kojic acid| Size:1 oz
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Adeline Kikam, M.D., recommends ingredients like azelaic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide to address hyperpigmentation in her patients. This treatment is loaded with kojic acid, which works in tandem with brightening vitamin C and hydrating hyaluronic acid to reduce the appearance of existing dark spots and prevent future marks from cropping up. We love that this formulation contains turmericand salicylic acid anti-inflammatory agents, as the two work to heal and prevent breakouts throughout the process—a huge win. Consistency is key with this product, as it takes about a month to see results, so stick with it!
Karine, tester with combination skin: "The product reduced the appearance of dark spots and prevented future dark spots from appearing. It was extremely gentle for everyday use and left my skin feeling hydrated with a subtle brightening effect overall."
Best Overall, Runner-Up
PCA Skin Hydroquinone-Free Face Serum
What We Like
Dark spots fade and disappear
Potent blend of antioxidants target free radical damage
Fast results
What to Consider
Can be drying
Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, kojic acid | Size: 1 oz
This fact-acting miracle in a bottle fades dark spots and creates a smooth complexion. Dr. Kikam says it contains an antioxidant blend of plenylethyl resorcinol, azelaic acid, and kojic acid to correct hyperpigmentation and promote an even tone. The best part? It only takes two weeks to see results. We consistently applied the formula morning and night for 14 days and saw an improvement in the look of our dark spots. As the testing period progressed, dark spots and marks faded and even disappeared in some cases. Just be sure not to use the product on open wounds; we experienced a burning sensation after accidentally getting the formula on an open cut.
Chantia, tester with combination skin: "The product definitely helped reduce the appearance of dark spots. Also, (a bit TMI, but I think it's worth noting) I am currently on my cycle, and this is the time when I typically breakout and my dark spots appear the most, but my skin looks really great this time around."
What We Like
Relatively affordable and available at drugstores
Subtle cooling sensation upon application
Reduces appearance of redness and spots
Supports a more even skin tone
What to Consider
Takes a bit longer to see results
Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, licorice root extract | Size: 0.5 oz
This formula from Versed proves you don’t have to spend a ton of money to get serious spot-correcting results. The brightening gel features a blend of concentrated ingredients that help fade dark spots and post-acne scaring. Brightening ingredients like tranexamic acid, kojic acid, licorice root, and niacinamide (aka brightening, clearing vitamin B3) work together to impede melanin production and even skin tone without irritation or adverse effects.
Our tester, Mandy, loved how the simple formula reduced dark spots and redness lingering on her skin after breakouts and diminished the look of hyperpigmentation, leaving us with a more even-toned complexion. Upon application, you can expect a subtle cooling sensation, but it simmers down when the product sinks into the skin (the consistency is very lightweight, so absorption happens within seconds). Mandy used this product daily and never once experienced irritation or unwelcome tingling; it’s gentle and pairs nicely with almost any existing skincare routine.
Mandy, tester with combination skin: "It worked better than I expected. My complexion became more even-toned, and it is gentle enough for regular use for my sensitive skin."
Best for Sensitive Skin
Fenty Skin Watch Ya Tone 5% Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum
What We Like
Doesn’t irritate or aggravate sensitive skin
Fades dark spots effectively
Layers nicely underneath skincare and makeup
What to Consider
Results could be more significant
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin C, licorice root extract, Barbados cherry | Size: 1 oz
If you have sensitive skin, you’ll love this lightweight, nongreasy formula from Rihanna’s Fenty Skin. Watch Ya Tone is a concentrated cocktail of skin brighteners like niacinamide, vitamin C, licorice root extract, and Barbados cherry (a vitamin C-packed nod to Rihanna’s roots)—designed to boost the skin’s overall luminosity and fade the look of dark spots and other forms of discoloration. We love that it’s noncomedogenic (so it won’t clog your pores), and it’s intended to be used on all skin types, including sensitive ones. Another plus: Because the consistency is silky smooth and non-sticky, it layers nicely underneath skincare and makeup.
Now, let’s get down to the results: Over the course of about three months, our tester, Mary, noticed that dark spots and post-acne hyperpigmentation faded, and her complexion looked more even. Admittedly, it takes a bit longer to see results—and those results aren’t as glaringly obvious—but if you have sensitive or highly reactive skin, you know that a tiny bit of progress is way better than opting for a more aggressive formula that causes more harm than good.
Mary, tester with combination skin: "This product is definitely gentle enough for regular use—nothing about it is irritating. It didn't tingle or burn and felt like a light layer of serum."
What We Like
Designed specifically for post-acne spots
Easy to use while traveling
Works like an illuminator to hide dark spots instantly
What to Consider
Roller ball tip can be hard to control
Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, acetyl glucosamine, vitamin C, licorice root | Size: 0.33 oz
This small but mighty wand from Hero Cosmetics is pure magic—trust us. The illuminating serum the wand carries combines the powers of an illuminator, which offsets the darkness of the spots, with gentle botanicals to minimize the look of blemish marks on contact. Over time, we noticed a huge difference in the spots on our complexion; each spot was significantly lighter at the end of the trial. Take it from us, don’t give up. We didn’t notice any change in the first month, but it works wonders if you give it a chance.
Oh, and not only is the product affordable, but it lasts a long time. Our tester, Samantha, was able to get through three months of treatment with one wand. Our only complaint: We wish the applicator tip was a squeeze tube rather than a roller ball. A squeeze tube would allow the user to control the amount of product a bit easier. As it is, you have to roll the tip across the skin, but a nozzle applicator would help deposit the right amount of serum every time.
Samantha, tester with combination skin: "The skin it was applied on felt and looked brighter, and I definitely noticed a difference in my under-eye dark spots. The metallic rollerball at the end of the wand also gave me a cooling effect, which I'm not sure was intended, but I loved it."
Best Splurge
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
What We Like
Clinically-backed ingredients minimizes appearance of dark spots
Addresses discoloration
Leaves skin looking brighter
What to Consider
Small amount of product for the price
Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide | Size: 1 oz
If you want to treat your skin to the top-shelf stuff, SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense is worth the splurge. This oil-free, lightweight serum is chock-full of ingredients like tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide, that are clinically proven to minimize the appearance of dark spots, even out discoloration, and brighten your complexion. The addition of HEPES, a molecule used to adjust the pH in cosmetic formulas, helps break down the bonds that bind dead skin cells to the surface, meaning it helps exfoliate, too, the brand tells us.
The price is undoubtedly steep, especially for such a small bottle, but if it’s within your budget (or you’re looking for something to splurge on), the results are worth it. After testing for several weeks, our tester Taylor's skin had a more even, consistent tone and appeared beautifully radiant.
Taylor, tester with sensitive skin: "I definitely started to notice a difference in the overall glow of my skin. My skin tone is more consistent and even the darker spots under my eyes are less noticeable."
Best With Retinol
Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector
What We Like
Formulated with retinol to speed up the skin's natural exfoliation process
Promotes a more even skin tone
Can help address acne and fine lines
Helps reduce dark spots and acne scarring
What to Consider
Should only be used at night
Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid | Size: 1 oz
Formulated with retinol and vitamin C, this super serum leans on two of the most effective tone-correcting ingredients on the market to fade dark spots. Dermatologists often recommend retinol for those looking to eradicate fine lines, unwanted skin texture, and even acne. But, retinol also helps promote renewed skin cells which brightens the skin and fades hyperpigmentation.
It’s worth noting, though, that retinol can only be used in the evening since it makes the skin more sensitive to the sun. During testing, our tester, Marissa, found that only a pearl-sized amount was needed to cover the entire face, and it helped dramatically reduce dark spots, especially those from acne scarring.
Marissa, tester with oily skin: "My skin feels brighter and firmer after using this product. I saw a decrease in the coloration of my prior dark spots, and less dark spots popped up overall."
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
Dr. Barbara Sturm Untinted Clarifying Spot Treatment
What We Like
Treats blemishes and breakouts
Gradual improvement starting after two weeks
Fades old acne scars
What to Consider
Not intended for use on the entire face
Key Ingredients: Zinc, vitamin B3, jojoba oil, panthenol, vitamin E, tea tree oil | Size: 0.5 oz
Those with acne-prone skin will rejoice having found this clarifying treatment from German doctor, Dr. Barbara Sturm’s eponymous brand. In addition to treating breakouts, this serum helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, blemishes, and overall redness on the skin. The transparent gel addresses impurities at the source, thanks to a potent blend of ingredients including antibacterial tea tree oil and zinc oxide.It took about two weeks of use to notice a difference in the overall look of our skin, but from then on, the results undeniably got better and better.
Anna, tester with dry skin: "I noticed a more even skin tone probably two weeks into using and saw gradual improvement throughout the duration of use. It has a lovely clarifying effect."
Best Brightening
Glow Recipe Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
What We Like
Visible brightening effect
Contains five forms of vitamin C
Firming and plumping
What to Consider
Results can take a while to see
Key Ingredients: 5 forms of vitamin C, guava seed oil, tranexamic acid, ferulic acid, vitamin E | Size: 1 oz
This serum from Glow Recipe is the perfect choice for those looking for an all-over, radiant glow. It’s potent—thanks to five forms of vitamin C, guava (full of vitamins A + C), tranexamic acid (a potent brightening ingredient), and ferulic acid (an antioxidant used to target the signs of aging)—and it works overtime to fade dark spots and even out the look of your complexion.
Unlike other vitamin C serums on the market, it delivers effective ingredients in a stable formula (vitamin C tends to be unstable on a molecular level). You can expect this nonsticky gel to absorb into the skin on contact, helping to plump, firm, and brighten the skin over time. It took about a month for dark spots to fade, but the overall look of our skin (radiant as heck) is what really sold us.
Alara, tester with combination skin: "I was really satisfied with the results, my skin looked healthy and glowing. I found it was also helpful in evening out my skin texture."
What to Look for When Buying Dark Spot Correctors
A good dark spot corrector can fade areas of hyperpigmentation, elevating your complexion from good to glowing. Keep the following ingredients and their benefits in mind to determine which pick is right for you.
- Azelaic Acid: Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., recommends products with azelaic acid, which is an exfoliant known to banish breakouts, reduce inflammation, and even out the skin tone—all while being less harsh than hydroquinone. “Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase and prevents pigmentation, but it’s much more gentle,” she explains.
- Retinol: Retinol is another ingredient that works wonders when it comes to fighting dark spots. "Retinol helps to brighten the skin and fade pigmentation by renewing skin cells,” she says. She also explains that retinol helps with smoothing fine lines and firming the skin.
- Niacinamide: Another ingredient to look out for is niacinamide (aka vitamin B3), a radiance-boosting, cell-renewing ingredient commonly found in dark spot correctors. Niacinamide fades discoloration and works best when combined with antioxidants like vitamins C and E.
How We Tested Dark Spot Correctors
Below are the features our editors and contributors evaluated over the course of eight weeks to determine our top picks.
- Feel: A dark spot corrector has to feel good on the skin—otherwise, it’s hard to use consistently. We observed the consistency of each product, docking points for excessive stickiness, stinging, or burning.
- Absorption: We know you have things to do, so we made sure to select dark spot correctors that absorbed into the skin quickly and easily. We also noted if the amount of product we used increased or decreased throughout the testing period and how each dark spot corrector layered under our other skincare and makeup.
- Effectiveness: The results a dark spot corrector provides should be noticeable. As such, we observed whether each product actually helped clear our skin of dark spots and how long it took to do so. We also tracked whether each product was gentle enough for daily use or if it irritated our skin.
- Overall Look: A standout dark spot corrector can offer additional skin-loving benefits. We observed other positive changes in our skin after using each product, awarding points to formulas that firmed and plumped our skin or evened its overall tone.
FAQ
How do you use a dark spot corrector?
How you use a dark spot corrector will depend on the product and formulation. “Hydroquinone is potent and can be irritating, so it’s best to use only as a spot treatment,” Dr. Shirazi says. “Azelaic acid and retinol, on the other hand, should be used all over the face, as they help prevent pigmentation on the entire face.” Azelaic acid, she explains, is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce redness, so it’s used to treat acne and rosacea during the daytime. Retinol, on the other hand, should be used at night.
Do dark spot correctors work on freckles?
According to Dr. Shirazi, you can use dark spot correctors to fade freckles. “Freckles form as a result of overproduction of melanin due to UV exposure, so yes, bleaching agents can help lighten them as they reduce pigmentation,” she explains. Retinol serums can also effectively address dark spots, freckles, and other signs of photoaging by encouraging cell turnover.
Meet Our Experts
We reached out to dermatologists to better understand what to look for in dark spot correctors and to help evaluate our picks.
- Dr. Adeline Kikam, M.D. is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Brown Skin Derm,
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, M.D. is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of La Jolla Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center.
- Dr. Diane Madfes, M.D.,is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in dermatology and dermatologic surgery and an attending physician at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York.
Why Trust Byrdie
Caitlyn Martyn is an associate commerce editor covering all things beauty and style. She gathered insights and testimonials from our experienced team of editors and in-house lab testers to curate this list of dark spot correctors that actually do what they say they will.
Updates writer Allison Laxand contributorsTheresa HollandandEsme Benjaminupdated this article to ensure every detail was correct and each product deserves its place on Byrdie’s list of the best dark spot correctors.
According to ourDiversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough dark spot correctors from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.