The Best Dark Spot Correctors in 2023 – Top Dark Spot Remover
Whether a by-product of an aggressive breakout, sun damage, or a more advanced condition, dark spots and hyperpigmentation are a common skin issue. Robert Finney, a board-certified dermatologist at Entière Dermatology in New York City tells BAZAAR.com, “Any inflammation in the skin can also lead to a light or dark mark, which can subsequently be worsened following sun exposure. The most common cause of discoloration depends on age, with acne of past reigning supreme in younger patients, UV damage in older patients, and many other factors in between.”
Most dark spot correctors use a powerful combination of active ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and kojic acid to effectively brighten skin. Erica Stevens, a dermatologist at a medical center in Buda, Texas, says one of the most potent brighteners is hydroquinone—available over the counter or through a prescription from your dermatologist—which is the “gold standard” in dark spot correction. It can also be And for sensitive or combination skin types dealing with hyperpigmentation, acne, or rosacea, a product containing powerful yet gentle azelaic acid is key.
While topical treatments can help drastically fade an uneven complexion over time, experts also recommend accompanying your serum or cream of choice with a sunscreen containing at least SPF 30 to keep skin protected. “One of the least acknowledged truths about treating hyperpigmentation is that sunscreen is the very first step in improving them,” says Caroline Robinson, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Tone Dermatology in Chicago. “Sunscreen is extremely important in protecting the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays and also visible light, which drives hyperpigmentation in melanin-rich skin more than other skin tones. In these cases, sunscreen is more than just protective, it is essential in the treatment of hyperpigmentation.”
Some sunscreens are better than others too. “Sunscreens that contain iron oxide and carry a tint tend to provide better protection against visible light,” Robinson explains. Then comes next steps: “After consistent sunscreen, I recommend topical tone correctors that contain a blend of antioxidants and proven actives and in-office treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser. As always, pigment is tricky, and stubborn pigment is reason to see a board-certified dermatologist.”
To help you fade hyperpigmentation and lingering marks even faster, here, we’ve rounded up a few of the best dark spot correctors that are worth adding to your daily (or nightly!) range of skincare staples.
