Supplementing your skin-care routine with a growth factor-fortified serum like this one can help firm up the skin. After sifting through endless five-star reviews, I added it to my AM skincare routine for a month hoping for noticeable results. The idea of brightening and evening out the appearance of my skin (without altering the actual colour of my skin) sounded very appealing as sometimes my skin can look dull and fatigued. This clinical-grade serum features a combination of dermatologist-approved L-ascorbic acid (a concentration of vitamin C), kojic acid, and arbutin.

Why It's Worth It: Tackle hyperpigmentation at its root — and sometimes, before it even appears — with Murad's Environmental Shield Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum. The other dermatologists we consulted would add vitamin C, azelaic acid, ferulic acid, alpha arbutin, and centella asiatica to that list. Hexylresorcinol - A synthetic ingredient with antioxidant properties that fights free radicals and has been shown to have a skin-brightening ability. It also contains sodium hyaluronate, shea butter, and niacinamide,” which collectively help soften, soothe, and smooth the skin. According to a clinical test conducted by Kiehl’s Since 1851, of the 104 people who tested an entire bottle of the product, 97% saw a visible reduction in dark spots.

Together, they’re believed to target existing dark spots and prevent future hyperpigmentation before it even occurs.

Good Molecules credits the cult-favorite serum’s effectiveness to two key ingredients: 3% TeraCeutic TXVector™—to help fade hyperpigmentation—and 4% niacinamide that works to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, texture, dullness, and pores. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. I plan to continue using the serum daily to help fade any new hyperpigmentation and even my overall complexion.This intensive serum harnesses the power of tranexamic acid, which is a great ingredient for inhibiting pigment, in tandem with glycolic acid to clear dull/dead skin cells. Skin Care Moisturizing Repair Serum】This Whitening Serum thoroughly targets various types of spots, The quick-absorbing texture does not have a sticky feel, and leaves skin beautifully bright and translucent looking. And, I’ll always have a bottle on-hand in case any hyperpigmentation pops up—it’s only a matter of time. These serums have potent chemicals that work to control melanin synthesis, lighten existing dark spots, and stop the development of new ones.

I have also given some of this product to my mama (who has melasma under her eye) so I am excited to see how her hyperpigmentation will look over time after using this product, stay tuned! Whether you're dealing with a dark mark left behind by a blemish, spots that indicate sun damage, age spots, or hormone-induced melasma, finding the best dark spot corrector for you will prove to be a worthwhile feat — especially if you find yourself piling on the makeup to cover them up.Don’t expect any kind of sorcery—as with most skincare products, I didn’t wake up to a magical overnight transformation. Before you spend your money on antioxidant serums and retinoids to improve the tone and texture of your skin, the most important first step is diligent daily sun protection, which is key to reducing the appearance of brown spots," says board-certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD, also based in New York City. It is thought to be triggered by a combination of sun exposure, genetics, and hormonal changes, since it has also been linked to the use of oral contraceptives, per experts at the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD).

Why It's Worth It: David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC recommends Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster for a plethora of reasons. This new product from Matter of Fact combines three superstar ingredients for the first time: retinol, vitamin C, and azelaic acid. According to the Mayo Clinic, the sun’s UV rays trigger extra melanin production as a way to defend your skin from damage.

Hyperpigmentation can be the result of healed acne scars, bug bites, injury, rashes, sun damage, or other inflammation in the skin which can trigger increased melanin production, she explains.