These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (2024)

These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (1)

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I've been suffering through hyperpigmentation for as long as I've been dealing with breakouts and cystic acne: Way. Too. Long. (To put a year on it, we're talking before I even had my first Motorola Razr, mmk?) So trust me when I say I know a thing or two about the best products for hyperpigmentation, whether you just want a weekly face mask to help fade your spots or are bringing in special forces in the form of a daily serum, spot treatment, and moisturizer to tackle your acne scars, sun spots, and melasma.

But first, before I share all of my picks (that's why you're here, right?), lemme break down what hyperpigmentation actually is. "Hyperpigmentation is a condition where there is an overproduction of melanin in the skin, which results in dark spots," says dermatologist Naana Boakye, MD. "Common causes of hyperpigmentation include sun exposure, inflammation—like acne, eczema, burns, etc.— genetics, hormonal changes, and more," she adds. Hence why it can be frustrating to treat, similar to acne—as one spot finally clears up, another one might pop up in its place. But I've got you covered, with hella options for all types of hyperpigmentation and skin type, as well as various treatment options depending on your ~vibes.~ Without further ado, my top favorites:

Our top picks for products for hyperpigmentation in 2024:

  • Best Product for Hyperpigmentation Overall

    Read more

  • Best At-Home Treatment for Hyperpigmentation

    Lion Pose Unspotted 4X Acid Jelly Night Serum

    Read more

  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (6)

    Best Product for Hyperpigmentation and Inflammation

    Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum

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Keep scrolling for all of my picks, as well as dermatologist and aesthetician-approved ingredients you should be using for hyperpigmentation. Then, get the low-down on what exactly causes hyperpigmentation and how to choose the right product for your specific needs.

1

Best Product for Hyperpigmentation Overall

Topicals Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (9)The best product for hyperpigmentation I've *ever* tested
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (10)Loaded with acids to help fade dark spots, yet still moisturizes with shea butter and jojoba esters
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (11)Some testers found the scent too strong

I always have a tube of this in my possession, no matter how many buzzy products for hyperpigmentation cross my desk. Why? Because it's filled with the best dark spot-correcting ingredients (tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, licorice root extract, kojic acid, and niacinamide), along with moisturizing shea butter and jojoba esters. I mostly use it as a spot treatment for my acne scars by dabbing it onto a spot at night before moisturizer, but once or twice a week, I'll coat my face in this rich cream before bed as a mask. It has an ointment-like texture, which can feel a bit heavy, so I always use it at night, FYI. As a bonus, it's also great for spot treating any dark spots on my body, like scars from ingrown hairs or shaving nicks.

  • Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, azelaic acid, licorice root, shea butter, jojoba esters

Glowing customer review: "I've been using this product for around 2 months now and it has made a huge diffrence in my dark spots and acne scars! It does have a unpleasant smell, but I'm not to sensitive to smells so it doesn't bug me that much."

2

Best At-Home Treatment for Hyperpigmentation

Lion Pose Unspotted 4X Acid Jelly Night Serum

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (13)Full of MVP dark-spot acids, like tranexamic, glycolic, and azelaic
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (14)Only have to use a few nights a week to notice results
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (15)V intense, so might burn a bit on sensitive skin types

NGL, this treatment serum is pretty similar to getting an in-office chemical peel or treatment—and I've tried legit dozens of spensy ones. It's loaded with all of the gold-standard acids to help fade dark spots, including azelaic, glycolic, lactic, and tranexamic acids. I smooth it on a clean face once or twice a week, then layer on my richest moisturizer to help avoid dryness or irritation. It definitely isn't for the faint of heart (read: the most sensitive skin), but I also have found myself spot-treating a few lingering acne scars when I don't wanna do the whole-shebang but still get some benefits.

  • Key ingredients: Azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid

Glowing customer review: "This minimized my spots dramatically over night. After application make sure to put a hydrating moisturizer on with no acids or AHAs in them. My skin looks SO much better after one use."

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3

Best Product for Hyperpigmentation and Inflammation

Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (17)Helps brighten with Malassezin and niacinamide
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (18)I find it extremely soothing, especially for redness and irritation
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (19)Can take a while to see brightening results in my experience

I am extremely skeptical when it comes to new ingredients and products (my inbox is filled with thousands of 'em rn), but I gave this serum the ole' college try for a full six weeks and officially understood the hype. It uses Malassezin, a molecule that already exists on your skin that helps fade dark spots while strengthening your skin barrier and reducing irritation. For me, it majorly calms down inflammation (especially active acne) as soon as I smooth it on my face, all the while slowly brightening and smoothing my skin.

  • Key ingredients: Malassezin, niacinamide

Glowing customer review: "I am a repeat customer and will never return to using just Vitamin C. I had a stubborn spot above my brow that my aesthetician said would likely always exist. After my first bottle, it was gone!I’ve also recommended it to friends who are equally as impressed!"

4

Best Vitamin C Product for Hyperpigmentation

Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (21)Combines 20 percent vitamin C with vitamin E and ferulic acid, a dream team for protecting and brightening skin
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (22)I love the pump bottle
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (23)Some acne-prone testers found it broke them out

"Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and can inhibit the tyrosinase enzyme that can enhance the skin's radiance and diminish dark spots by blocking tyrosinase and decreasing melanin production," says Dr. Boakye. And one of the best formulas I've found is this 20 percent serum from Timeless. The lightweight, watery serum is full of pure vitamin C (aka L-ascorbic acid), as well as antioxidant-rich vitamin E and ferulic acid. It's also clutch in the summer: "Additionally, it can combat free radicals and shield the skin from sun exposure," Dr. Boakye adds.

  • Key ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid

Glowing customer review: "I am 60+ years younger and my dermatologist highly recommended this product. I’ve been using it now for a year and I can tell such a difference in my skin. It's smoother and younger-looking. I love that it’s a pump too."

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (25)Loaded with basically every good-for-your-skin ingredient (lol)
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (26)Pretty universally loved by Team 'Cosmo'
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (27)Have to start slow, since it can be a bit strong

I might be a beauty editor with a thousand products, but I get lazy as hell sometimes too. Which is why all-in-one treatments like this from SkinBetter are the GOAT. This retinol-based serum also incorporates lactic and glycolic acids to brighten and smooth, along with peptides to help plump and firm skin, hella moisturizers (squalane, hyaluronic acid, ceramides), smoothing niacinamide, brightening vitamin C, and soothing allantoin and bisabolol. Legit, it's got it all. Just smooth it on clean skin three nights a week (starting with once a week, slowly building up if you're new to retinoids), and always follow with moisturizer.

  • Key ingredients: Retinol, lactic aid, glycolic acid, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, allantoin, bisabolol

Cosmo review: "The combo of AHAs and retinoid in this cream have not only helped control my breakouts, but they've also taken care of my old acne marks. Win-win!" —Deanna Pai, interim deputy beauty director

6

Best Brightening Product for Hyperpigmentation

Naturium Multi-Bright Tranexamic Acid Treatment 5%

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (29)Loaded with the best brighteners, like tranexamic and kojic acids
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (30)Makes my skin look so glowy under makeup
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (31)Pills with some moisturizers and sunscreens, according to testers

This brightening blend of tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and alpha arbutin is basically like spreading bottled sunshine over my skin. I smooth it over my clean face in the morning, then follow with sunscreen before my full makeup routine. Not only does it help fade hyperpigmentation over time, but it also gives my skin a glowy, healthy look right away.

  • Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, alpha arbutin

Glowing customer review: "This product isn’t talked about enough…I use it every other day and it has CHANGED my skin. My scars have faded dramatically over the course of time. It also brightens like no other product and gives a beautiful glow."

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7

Best Serum for Hyperpigmentation

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (33)May potentially help prevent hyperpigmentation with new molecule, melasyl
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (34)Fades dark spots with niacinamide
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (35)A few reviewers found the scent overpowering

Sometimes, the best way to reduce hyperpigmentation is to just prevent it from forming, which is exactly how this La Roche-Posay serum works. It uses a patented ingredient called Melasyl, which basically inhibits skin darkening to potentially stop dark spots at the source. If you're skeptical of new treatments like me, though, all good—it's also loaded with 10 percent niacinamide to help fade any current hyperpigmentation you already have.

Don't just take it from me: "My skin is super-prone to hyperpigmentation but has also gotten more reactive with age, which is why I'm obsessed with this stuff," says Pai. "The niacinamide makes it gentle, but it's still ~extremely~ effective at evening out my skin tone."

  • Key ingredients: Niacinamide, melasyl

Glowing customer review: "My melasma and some dark sports are getting lighter already! Love this product!"

8

Best At-Home Peel for Hyperpigmentation

Noble Panacea The Exceptional Overnight Chronobiology Peel

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (37)Filled with acids to help retexturize your skin
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (38)Sits on your skin overnight, which makes it v easy
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (39)Most expensive product on this list (but refill is ever-so-slightly cheaper, which helps)

This is the easiest, most luxurious at-home chemical peel—trust me. Just swipe an even layer of the gel on your skin, wait five-ish minutes, then layer on your moisturizer and hit the hay. It uses a blend of AHAs and BHAs that majorly retexturize skin to help fade dark spots and smooth texture, while centella asiatica and oat amino acids soothe skin.

  • Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, centella asiatica, malic acid, tartaric acid, oat amino acids

Cosmo review: "I swear by face peels for evening out my skin tone and making it look more radiant, and this overnight version—which uses time-released actives to exfoliate and moisturize—makes my skin look bright and refreshed by morning." —D.P.

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9

Best Product for Hyperpigmentation and Pores

Farmacy Honey Glow 17% Resurfacing Acid Serum

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (41)Combines AHAs and BHAs to help fade dark spots and clear pores simultaneously
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (42)Some testers found it burned their sensitive skin

"This is one chemical exfoliant that helps control my hormonal acne and, bonus, actually makes my gigantic pores look smaller," says interim deputy beauty director Deanna Pai. How does it work such magic, you ask? Well, it's freakin' stuffed with AHAs to help smooth and brighten hyperpigmentation, along with BHAs that can actually get into your pores and help clear 'em out to make them appear smaller. "I use it at night before my moisturizer," Pai adds, but two to three times a week is plenty for this strong formula.

  • Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, willow bark extract, hyaluronic acid

Glowing customer review: "I will never not have this serum. My face has already made a change for the better, and I’ve only been using it for the past month about three times a week. The smell is amazing as well. Love this product!"

10

Best Retinol for Hyperpigmentation

CeraVe Retinol Serum for Post-Acne Marks and Skin Texture

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (44)Smooths, firms, and brightens with retinol
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (45)Widely available at drugstores
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (46)Can pill, depending on which moisturizer you layer it with

"Retinoids promote cell turnover and inhibit melanin transfer and enhance skin permeation," says Dr. Boakye; that's why incorporating a retinol serum is key to reducing hyperpigmentation. My go-to pick? This drugstore one from CeraVe, which uses encapsulated retinol (aka retinol that allows for deeper penetration and sustained release, which is A+ for sensitive skin), along with licorice root and niacinamide to help brighten, firm, and smooth skin. If your precious bb face is scared of retinol, don't worry—this one combines skin-barrier-supporting ceramides to help offset some irritation.

  • Key ingredients: Retinol, licorice root extract, niacinamide, ceramides

Glowing customer review: "I’ve had no negative reaction with my sensitive skin, and it feels great. A little goes a long way, very smooth, cool, and quickly absorbed."

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11

Best Product for Hyperpigmentation and Glowy Skin

AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (48)Chock-full of moisturizers that make my skin so glowy
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (49)Might not be strong enough for those with lots of deep, textured hyperpigmentation

I was seeing dozens of TikToks on my FYP of people with the glowiest, smoothest, most glass-skin skin I'd ever seen—and legit every single one said they'd used this product. And once I checked it out myself, I see why. This K-Beauty product uses niacinamide to help brighten and smooth skin, but it's also packed with moisturizers to help give my skin a major glow. We're talkin' hyaluronic acid, squalane, rosemary oil, arginine, allantoin, and sea buckthorn oils—all of which make this a genius pick for someone who wants their skin to look filtered IRL.

  • Key ingredients: Niacinamide, squalane, hyaluronic acid, rosemary oil, squalane, allantoin

Glowing customer review: "I don’t know what they put in this bottle BUT ITS THE BOMB!! I started to see my dark spots leaving after the first two uses."

12

Best Spot Treatment for Hyperpigmentation

Hero Cosmetics Lightning Wand Dark Spot Brightening Serum

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (51)Extremely easy to use
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (52)Loaded with dark-spot lightening ingredients
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (53)Can be hard to get product out of the tube at first

We've all got hella spot treatments for when our zits are active, but what about when they turn into dark spots? Enter: The Lightning Wand by Hero Cosmetics. This pen is filled with all the best brightening agents (tranexamic acid, licorice root extract, niacinamide, and vitamin C) in an easy-to-use, on-the-go format that I can quickly dab onto a spot twice a day to help fade it. Bonus: It's clear, so I can slip it in my bag and reapply it throughout the day too.

  • Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid, vitamin C, licorice root extract, niacinamide

Glowing customer review: "I was skeptical about this product, but it was referred to me by a friend who said its the only product that worked on her acne scars. Ive been using it for a week now and have noticed a considerable difference in the darkness of my acne scars. This stuff is magic!"

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13

Best Tranexamic Acid Product for Hyperpigmentation

The INKEY List Tranexamic Acid Serum

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (55)Helps lighten dark spots with tranexamic acid
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (56)One of the most affordable products on this list
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (57)A few testers said the pump breaks easily

Tranexamic acid is "a gentle and effective way to improve the look of dark spots," says aesthetician Ivey Rogers. "It helps fade discoloration and can help protect against UV damage." And if you're looking for a simple, budget-friendly way to add it to your routine, grab this one from The Inkey List. It combines 2 percent tranexamic acid to brighten with antioxidant-rich vitamin C and moisturizing squalane. Smooth it on daily at night (before retinol), followed by moisturizer to offset any potential dryness

  • Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid, squalane, vitamin C

Glowing customer review: "Noticed a difference after the first use! I’m very fair and struggle with hyperpigmentation after even the slightest blemish. This has helped a lot!"

14

Best Sunscreen for Hyperpigmentation

Herbivore Star Seed Silicone-Free 100% Mineral Facial Sunscreen

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (59)Protects my skin from the sun with broad-spectrum SPF 30
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (60)Goes on totally clear (!)
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (61)Helps slowly fade dark spots with vitamin C
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (62)I wish the bottle were bigger for the price

FYI: "Sunscreen is the ultimate method of protection against hyperpigmentation," says Dr. Boakye. "UV rays from the sun can exacerbate discoloration and produce more melanin." Just another reason why you gotta wear SPF 30+ every. single. day—no ifs, ands, or buts. Recently, I'm a fan of this mineral sunscreen formula from Herbivore, because not only does it offer broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, but it also helps slightly brighten my skin with a lil vitamin C. And it's so sheer and lightweight that it barely feels like I'm wearing anything at all.

  • Key ingredients: Vitamin C, prebiotics

Glowing customer review: "This is a really nice facial sunscreen! It has a light tint so the zinc doesn't throw a white cast and its full of great skincare ingredients. I love the idea of SPF that protects your skin and is good for your skin—this doesn't feel thick or heavy, but not greasy."

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15

Best Kojic Acid Product for Hyperpigmentation

Fade Away Brightening Serum

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (64)Helps reduce hyperpigmentation from forming with kojic acid
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (65)Soothes skin a lil bit with aloe vera and neem oil
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (66)Definitely takes consistent use to see results

This serum is loaded with one of my favorite ingredients for hyperpigmentation: kojic acid, an over-the-counter, significantly gentler option compared to hydroquinone, a lightening agent that has to be prescribed and can be v intense. Kojic acid basically stops abnormal or excessive pigment production in its tracks while fading existing discoloration, dermatologist Caroline Robinson, MD, previously explained to Cosmo. “It also is also said to have antioxidant effects as well, which help our skin cells repair themselves from the harmful effects of UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress."

The formula also has a cocktail of alpha arbutin and licorice root extract, both of which are great natural brighteners. IK what you're thinking: Okay, so this serum is prob gonna burn my face off with all that brightening. But surprisingly, it's extremely gentle on my skin, thanks to soothing aloe and neem oil.

  • Key ingredients: Alpha arbutin, kojic acid, licorice root extract

Glowing customer review: "Fade away is an amazing product! I saw a drastic change in my dark spots."

16

Best Mask for Hyperpigmentation

Dr. Idriss Major Fade Dark Spot AHA Face Mask

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (68)Only need to use once a week
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (69)Filled with the best acids for hyperpigmentation: Glycolic, lactic, and tranexamic
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (70)Can be too strong for very sensitive skin

As an acne-prone girlie who sprouts a scar every time a zit appears, I trust dermatologist Shereene Idriss with my life (practically). Her line is filled with non-comedogenic products that my skin just loves, including this treatment mask for hyperpigmentation. It includes all of my faves—glycolic acid, lactic acid, and tranexamic acid—all of which help brighten my dark spots and smooth my skin texture at the same time. It can be a little strong, so I just leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse it off and smooth on my soothing serums and moisturizer right away. Bonus: I only need to use it once a week to see results, too.

  • Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, tranexamic acid

Glowing customer review: "I love this face mask! I have been using this product regularly for a few weeks and I believe that it has significantly improved my hyperpigmentation, making my skin feel smoother, better hydrated, as well as appear more rejuvenated."

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17

Best Moisturizer for Hyperpigmentation

EADEM Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (72)Uses niacinamide to help brighten skin
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (73)Extremely lightweight yet moisturizing
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (74)Very dry skin types might need to pair with an oil or occlusive to help lock in hydration

Don't wanna add another step to your routine? I gotchu, just incorporate this hyperpigmentation-reducing moisturizer. It's chock-full of the best moisturizers (ceramides, peptides, squalane—you name it), plus niacinamide to help slowly but gently brighten your skin. And it's shockingly lightweight—dare I say, even cloudlike—so even the oiliest of skin types can use it. (Trust me, I swear by this, and you could fry an egg on my face).

  • Key ingredients: Ceramides, peptides, niacinamide, squalane

Glowing customer review: "I love this moisturizer! My skin doesn’t feel greasy. I usually have very dry skin but this is the perfect balance for my skin. This a good line for WOC or any one."

18

Best Luxury Product for Hyperpigmentation

SK-II GenOptics Ultraura Essence Serum

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (76)Helps brighten skin with vitamin C and niacinamide
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (77)Uses SK-II's famous Pitera essence to help moisturize, smooth, and soothe skin
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (78)Gorgeous bottle, and the product's scent is light yet lovely
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (79)Most expensive product on this list

I'm a beauty editor who loves fancy things. What can I say!? Which is why I was so stoked when I started testing this serum from Japanese brand SK-II. This hyperpigmentation-reducing serum uses niacinamide (which you know we <3 for gently brightening), as well as vitamin C and undecylenoyl phenylalanine, an amino-acid derived molecule that can potentially help hinder melanocyte production, which is what causes dark spots.

Plus, it also features the go-to SK-II Pitera essence, which is majorly rich in vitamins, amino acids, and minerals that can potentially help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, moisturize your skin, and fade dark spots. Basically, if you're into products that are loaded with cool, science-y stuff, you might like this (albeit, pricey) one. Not to mention, the bottle looks gorg on my vanity.

  • Key ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin C, Pitera essence, Undecylenoyl Phenylalanine

Glowing customer review: "I’ve been using this daily and it has helped brighten and even out my skintone. It does take continued use to see the best results but so far it has improved my skin."

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19

Best Custom Product for Hyperpigmentation

Curology Custom Anti-Aging Formula

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Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (81)Totally customized depending on your skin's needs, so it takes the guesswork out of combining treatments
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (82)Way less expensive than going to a derm (especially if you don't have insurance)
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (83)Taking the online quiz does take a lil time—but worth it, IMO

Can't make it to a derm but want a more tailored approach to your dark spot-fading game? Try Curology's custom anti-aging formula. Even if you're not necessarily trying to stop aging... hear me out: You'll take an online quiz that asks a bajillion Qs re: your skin and prompts you to send in photos. Then, a board-certified derm will review your responses and suggest a customized formula for you, whether you've got hyperpigmentation and redness, or melasma (aka the most stubborn hyperpigmentation out there), or dark spots and fine lines. It's basically the

  • Key ingredients: Custom depending on your needs, but can include tretinoin, tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, etc.

Cosmo review: "I've been obsessed with Curology since it first popped up on YouTube when I was deep in the bouts of hormonal teenage acne. But now that they offer so many others skincare solutions, I've been testing them and particularly love my custom anti-aging formula. Mine includes tretinoin to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, stop breakouts before they happen, and smooth and even my skin tone." — Beth Gillette, beauty editor (lol, that's me!)

20

Best Hyperpigmentation Product for Sensitive Skin

Dieux Deliverance Antioxidant & Niacinamide Serum

Pros
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (85)Gently fades dark spots with niacinamide
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (86)Helps moisturize dry skin with shea butter
Cons
  • These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (87)May be too heavy for oily and acne-prone skin types

Listen, I get it: Your sensitive skin is absolutely wincing at all of these acid-filled formulas that promise to practically burn your dark spots off. But there are gentler ways ahead—namely, this serum from Dieux (you know, the viral TikTok brand that editors, celebs, and basically everyone who knows what's up is obsessed with). It uses 14 percent niacinamide to help fade hyperpigmentation and smooth texture, but the ingredient is also anti-inflammatory—and therefore calmer than others on this list. Plus, it's filled with rich, moisturizing shea butter and strengthening peptides to quell dryness and irritation.

  • Key ingredients: Niacinamide, shea butter, peptides

Glowing customer review: "Absolutely amazing would purchase again and again and again this serum calms my skin and evens out my skin tone. It’s so nice for every day use I highly recommend."

These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (88)

Beth Gillette

Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers skincare, makeup, hair, nails, and more across digital and print. She can generally be found in bright eyeshadow furiously typing her latest feature or hemming and hawing about a new product you "have to try." Prior to Cosmopolitan, she wrote and edited beauty content as an Editor at The Everygirl for four years. Follow her on Instagram for makeup selfies and a new hair 'do every few months.

These Products are the IRL Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Hyperpigmentation (2024)
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