19 Best Dark Spot Correctors For Glowing Skin, Per Dermatologists

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.

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.

Peep a few of the best dermatologist-recommended dark spot correctors, below:

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

Best Drugstore Product

L’Oreal Paris 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

Best Drugstore Product

L’Oreal Paris 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum

Now 44% Off

$18 at Amazon$19 at Walmart

Credit: Courtesy

Pros

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Key IngredientsVitamin CProduct TypeSerumSkin TypeSensitiveCruelty-FreeYes

“Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals from causing oxidative damage to the skin and blocks enzymatic processes that make more pigment in the skin,” explains dermatologist Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD. 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

Most Hydrating

Farmacy Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer

Most Hydrating

Farmacy Honey Halo Ceramide Moisturizer

Now 31% Off

$33 at Amazon$47 at QVC$48 at Sephora

Credit: Courtesy

Pros

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Key IngredientsHoney, propolis, royal jelly, fig fruit extract, and a ceramide blendProduct TypeMoisturizerSkin TypeDryCruelty-FreeYes

“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 dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD. 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

C E Ferulic with 15% L-ascorbic acid

Best Splurge

C E Ferulic with 15% L-ascorbic acid

$182 at SkinCeuticals

Credit: Courtesy

Pros

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Key IngredientsVitamins C and EProduct TypeSerumSkin TypeDry, Normal, Combination, SensitiveCruelty-FreeYes

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 Facial Mist

fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Mist

Best Facial Mist

fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Mist

$25 at Ulta Beauty$39 at Walmart$25 at Neiman Marcus

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsFruit extractsProduct TypeFace MistSkin TypeCombination, Dry, Normal, Oily, SensitiveCruelty-FreeNo

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. Dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, 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 with AHAs

Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector

Best with AHAs

Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector

$17 at Amazon$32 at Walmart

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsVitamin C, LHA, and an antioxidant complexProduct TypeCreamSkin TypeAllCruelty-FreeYes

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

Best Oil

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Oil

Best Oil

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Oil

$40 at Amazon$40 at Walmart$40 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsVitamin C, turmeric, and red raspberry seed oilProduct TypeOilSkin TypeOily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, NormalCruelty-FreeYes

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 For Acne Scars

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Best For Acne Scars

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

$108 at SkinCeuticals

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsTranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamideProduct TypeSerumSkin TypeDry, Normal, Oily, CombinationCruelty-FreeYes

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 PRODUCT

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

BEST EXFOLIATING PRODUCT

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

$8 at Sephora$22 at Walmart$11 at Skinstore

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Key IngredientsAHA and BHAProduct TypeLiquid peelSkin TypeAnyCruelty-FreeYes

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 With Aloe Vera

Ambi Fade Cream Hydroquinone-Free

Best With Aloe Vera

Ambi Fade Cream Hydroquinone-Free

$9 at ambi.com

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Key IngredientsNiacinamide and aloe veraProduct TypeCreamSkin TypeAllCruelty-FreeNo

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 Booster

BYBI 1% Bakuchiol in Olive Squalane Oil Booster

Best Booster

BYBI 1% Bakuchiol in Olive Squalane Oil Booster

$32 at Amazon

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Key IngredientsBakuchiol and squalaneProduct TypeSerumSkin TypeDryCruelty-FreeYes

“Bakuchiol is a retinoid alternative that’s well-tolerated, and works great with vitamin C to even out skin tone,” says dermatologist 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

Best On Amazon

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

Best On Amazon

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector

Now 38% Off

$18 at Amazon$27 at Walmart$33 at Ulta Beauty

Credit: Courtesy

Pros

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Key IngredientsRetinol and vitamin CProduct TypeSerumSkin TypeDryCruelty-FreeNo

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

“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 For Bikini Line

Bushbalm Bermuda Oil Dark Spot Treatment

Best For Bikini Line

Bushbalm Bermuda Oil Dark Spot Treatment

$26 at Amazon

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsCoconut, lemon, and rare copaiba oilProduct TypeOilSkin TypeAllCruelty-FreeYes

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 dermatologist Tiffany Clay, MD. “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 Mask

RANAVAT Flawless Veil Resurfacing AHA Saffron Masque

Best Mask

RANAVAT Flawless Veil Resurfacing AHA Saffron Masque

$75 at Sephora

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsSaffron, papaya, and lotus seedProduct TypeMaskSkin TypeNormal, dry, combination, and oilyCruelty-FreeYes

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 Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

Best Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

$17 at Sephora$153 at Nordstrom$153 at Dermstore

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsGlycolic acid (AHA), mandelic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), resveratrol, and green tea extractProduct TypeWipesSkin TypeNormal, dry, combination, and oilyCruelty-FreeYes

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 Cleanser

Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

Best Cleanser

Fresh Soy Makeup Removing Face Wash

$39 at Sephora$40 at Walmart$71 at Nordstrom

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsSoy proteins, cucumber extract, and aloe veraProduct TypeCleanserSkin TypeDry, combination, normalCruelty-FreeYes

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!!”

17. Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

Best Redness Reducer

Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

Best Redness Reducer

Self-Care Night Recovery Oil

$80 at piliani.com

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsPili oil, elemi oil, squalane, evening primrose, and English lavenderProduct TypeOilSkin TypeAllCruelty-FreeYes

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.”

18. LiveTinted Huegard SPF30 Primer

Best SPF

Live Tinted Hueguard Mineral SPF 30 Primer

Best SPF

Live Tinted Hueguard Mineral SPF 30 Primer

$32 at Ulta Beauty

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsMineral SPF and hippophae rhamnoides oilProduct TypePrimerSkin TypeAllCruelty-FreeYes

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.”

19. FaceHaus The Luminary Dark Spot Corrector

Best With Salicylic Acid

Face Haus The Luminary Dark Spot Corrector

Best With Salicylic Acid

Face Haus The Luminary Dark Spot Corrector

$48 at thefacehaus.com

Credit: Courtesy

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Key IngredientsNiamcinamide, sodium hyaluronate, salicylic acid, and panthenolProduct TypeSerumSkin TypeAnyCruelty-FreeYes

Dermatologist 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.

Meet our experts: Oma Agbai, MD, director of multicultural dermatology and hair disorders at the University of California Davis, Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, a dermatologist with NYU Langone Health, Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, Laura Scott, MD, a dermatologist at the University of Miami Health System, Dendy Engelman, MD, a dermatologist with Shaffer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City, Mona Gohara, MD, president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society, Tiffany Clay, MD, a dermatologist in Atlanta, Britt Craiglow, MD, a dermatologist in Fairfield, CT, Dr. Carl Thornfeldt, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Epionce Skincare

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
• Hyperpigmentation (mottled hyperpigmentation, melasma, lentigines/freckling, and dyschromia)
• Seborrheic keratosis
• Melanoma

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.

Neha Tandon

Senior Commerce Editor

Neha Tandon is the senior commerce editor of Women’s Health—she’s an expert in discovering the best products and services you can buy and giving recommendations. She discovered her love for magazines when as a teen, she started stealing her mother’s magazines. Determined to see more women who look like her and her family members on the glossy covers of magazines, she was guided by seasoned editors and mentors to write for brands including New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper’s Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good. When she’s not grilling dermatologists about the latest skincare trends, she’s doing candlelit yoga or watching Humphrey Bogart movies over vegan pizza. Follow her on Instagram. 

Daley Quinn

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. 

Addison Aloian

Addison Aloian (she/her) is an editorial assistant at Women’s Health. When she’s not writing about all things pop culture, health, beauty, and fashion, she loves hitting leg day at the gym, shopping at Trader Joe’s, and watching whichever hockey game is on TV. Her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L’Officiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.