13 best dark spot correctors, approved by dermatologists and tested by us
The best dark spot serums and correctors are the low-key heroes of any skincare routine (IMO). They don’t always get the same love as a glossy face oil or that buzzy new mask making the rounds on TikTok - but trust me, when you find the one, it can completely change your complexion. They can also slot right into your routine - layering well under your moisturiser, eye cream, or even alongside your fave niacinamide or retinol serum.
I know this category better than I’d like to admit. My skin’s never been super acne-prone, but I couldn’t resist squeezing the odd spot in my teens - and, of course, I’ve been left with a few too many dark spots and lingering scars as a souvenir.
When it comes to ingredients, dermatologists say to look for alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs (such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid), retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Engelman, also recommends kojic acid, which is derived from fermented rice, for newer dark spots and acne scars.
Tranexamic acid, cysteamine, azelaic acid, soy, and arbutin are also options that work well to lighten dark spots. “These ingredients will inhibit melanin production and accelerate skin cell turnover, which helps fade pigmentation over time,” says board-certified dermatologist Hope Mitchell, MD.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up my go-to dark spot serum favourites, plus a lineup of dermatologist-approved and editor-tested correctors that actually deliver. From lightweight serums to intensive treatments, consider this your shortcut to your best, glowiest skin yet.
Meet The Experts:
- Carmen Castilla, MD, board-certified NYC-based dermatologist.
- Rachel Nazarian, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group.
- Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified NYC-based dermatologist.
- Hope Mitchell, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology.
How I tested dark spot correctors:
I've tested dark spot correctors over a series of weeks to months alongside other members of the Glamour team; some editors (including myself) have been using these products for close to a year or two.
We looked for consistency, smell, how quickly they absorbed into the skin and how our skin felt after application. We also paid close attention to how our skin looked after one to two to three weeks of the serums, if we noticed a difference (whether minimal or drastic), and if we think we’ll continue using it in the future.
Firework content
Ahead, our full edit of the best dark spot correctors.
- Key ingredient(s): Azelaic acid.
- Skin types: Normal, dry, combination, oily.
- Size: 1 oz.
Why we love it: Finding products that are strong enough to work but actually safe to use during pregnancy can be a real challenge — luckily this dark spot corrector from The Ordinary can stay in your skin-care routine through every trimester. Its primary ingredient is azelaic acid — which can help even skin tone, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and offer antioxidant support.
Glamour US' Kilkeary is also a huge fan of this product because of how unique it is. “The gel-cream formula gives it the feel of a cooling moisturiser, but the potent ingredients make it just as effective as a serum. I like to use this as the second-to-last product in my skin-care routine, and it never fails to leave my skin looking extra bright. My other favourite part? It’s oil-free, which makes it suitable for those—like me!—with acne-prone skin.”
Pros & ConsPros- Gentle enough for daily use
- Affordable
Cons- Can be drying
- Key ingredients: Neuro-peptides, niacinamide, PHAs, laminaria extract.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Size: 30ml.
Why we love it: If SkinCeuticals does one thing well, it’s serious, science-backed skincare - and this serum is no exception. It leans on neuro-peptides to soften the look of fine lines, while PHAs gently resurface for smoother texture. What makes it especially good for brightening is the niacinamide, which helps even out tone and fade uneven patches, so skin looks clearer and more luminous over time. Add laminaria extract into the mix and you’ve got hydration and calm, so it never feels too harsh - ideal for sensitive skin types.
It’s the kind of serum that earns its place in your routine if you’re chasing a more even, radiant complexion without lathering on every serum in your cupboard.The results build gradually, but stick with it and you’ll notice your skin looking smoother, clearer and glowier (think Hailey Bieber level).
Pros & ConsPros- Targets both texture and tone
- Brightening niacinamide
- Science-led formula
Cons- Pricey
- Takes patience to show results
- Key ingredient(s): Vitamin C, patented Precision-Fade Even Skin Technology.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Size: 30ml.
Why we love it: If there's one thing Charlotte Tilbury knows a thing or two about - it's glow - and this serum is her answer to dark spots, redness and uneven tone. At the heart of the formula is the brand’s Precision-Fade Even Skin Technology, which works to minimise pigmentation while keeping skin smooth and balanced. There’s also vitamin C for a healthy hit of brightness, and a clever barrier shield that helps lock in hydration while defending against moisture loss.
It’s designed to be gentle enough for all skin types, so whether you’re tackling post-blemish marks, redness or just an overall lack of brightness, this is a serum that can slip easily into your routine and layer well with your other skincare faves.
Pros & ConsPros- Brightens and gives skin a glowy finish
- Protects the skin barrier
Cons- Expensive
- Results take time
- Key ingredient(s): Melasyl, niacinamide, thermal spring water.
- Skin types: Melanated skin.
- Size: 1 oz.
Why we love it: Dr. Mitchell is a massive fan of this dark spot serum because it combines niacinamide with other brightening agents. “This makes it gentle yet effective for reducing dark spots on all skin types, especially on melanated skin. It also helps strengthen the skin barrier with soothing thermal water.”
Glamour US contributor Tanisha Cherry notes that this dark spot corrector gave her major hydration and glow after testing it for about a week.
“Winter really has my combination-oily skin feeling thirsty with a capital T. This Mela B3 serum delivered the perfect dose of hydration without clogging up the vibes — or the pores. With the 10% niacinamide, I was bracing for a little irritation, but surprisingly we’re good. I’ve been using it twice a day for a little over a week now, and while my dark spots haven’t budged yet my skin is definitely smoother and even has a bit of a glow. I’m guessing that’s more about the hydration than anything else. As for the dark spot action? It feels like a ‘wait and see’ situation.”
Pros & ConsPros- Noncomedogenic
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
Cons- Pricey
- Key ingredient(s): Retinol, licorice root, niacinamide, ceramides.
- Skin types: Acne-prone skin.
- Size: 1 ounce.
Why we love it: “This dark spot corrector is amazing because it not only fades dark spots, but it also contains ceramides to restore the skin’s barrier, making it suitable for sensitive skin,” says Dr. Mitchell. It’s also particularly effective on those with oily and acne-prone skin types thanks to pore-tightening ingredients like encapsulated retinol, niacinamide, and licorice root extract.
“This is a great beginner-friendly retinol serum. It was the first retinol product I ever used, and I’ve gone through two bottles now. It feels very lightweight and absorbs nicely on the skin. I’ve never had a bad reaction and I notice my skin feels a lot smoother and radiant after consistent use. As always, make sure to follow the instructions so you don’t overuse it,” says Glamour US' Senior Commerce Editor Jenifer Calle, who has combination skin.
Pros & ConsPros- Great for retinol beginners
- Fragrance-free
- Affordable
Cons- It’s recommended to build up tolerance for everyday use
- Contains retinol - could irritate
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C, superberries, kangaroo paw flower extract.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Size: 30ml.
Why we love it: Sometimes your skin just looks a bit… meh. Enter: Tropic’s Glow Berry comes in. It’s loaded with vitamin C to help fade uneven patches, a bunch of antioxidant-packed berries to give skin a bit of life again, and kangaroo paw flower extract (yes, really) to smooth out fine lines and tackle dark spots.
It’s light, it sinks in quickly and it doesn’t leave that annoying sticky film some serums do. The glow isn’t instant - more of a slow build - but after a few weeks, skin looks fresher, brighter and more even-toned. Basically, the kind of serum you reach for when you want the skin compliments to roll in.
- Key ingredients: Tranexamic acid, vitamin C, probiotic blend.
- Skin types: All skin types, but especially if you’re dealing with post-breakout marks.
Size: 30ml.
Why we love it: Let’s be real - sometimes a spot pops up and it's gone in a day or two, but the mark it leaves (especially if you’ve been squeezing) can overstay its welcome. That’s where The Scar Slayer (aka Glow Hub’s brightening serum) comes in handy. Tranexamic acid takes the lead on fading scars and pigmentation, while vitamin C dials up the glow and defends against daily skin stressors - perfect for London life. The probiotic blend is like a little peacekeeper, keeping things calm and balanced so the actives can get to work without freaking your skin out.
It’s light, layers under your moisturiser or SPF like a dream, and is easy enough to use every morning. Just don’t expect it to erase marks overnight - it takes a little time, but it’ll leave your skin looking clearer and more even week by week.
Pros & ConsPros- Actually targets post-spot scars
- Gives skin a healthy glow
- Lightweight and easy to slot into any routine
Cons- Patience required for results
- Can feel a little tingly if you’re new to vitamin C
- Key ingredient(s): Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Size: 0.67 oz.
Why we love it: This vitamin C serum brings together 15% pure vitamin C with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to brighten, hydrate and protect in one step. The texture feels lightweight and absorbs quickly, so it layers easily with moisturiser, SPF and makeup. Over time, it helps even out skin tone, boost radiance and leave skin looking firmer and fresher.
The downside? Reviews mention it can leave a slightly sticky finish, which might put some people off. But if you’re serious about glow and want visible results, this is one that earns its place in your routine.
- Key ingredient(s): Tranexamic acid, niacinamide, azelaic acid.
- Skin types: Normal, dry, combination, oily.
- Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Why we love it: As featured in one of GLAMOUR's Beauty Boxes, this facial serum is designed to reduce discolouration, acne scars, and dark spots—for all skin shades. “I love this brand because it’s formulated specifically for melanated skin tones,” says Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro. “There aren’t many options out there for removing dark spots on darker skin tones, and this serum from Topicals works to fully fade them over time.” She also loves the lightweight cream consistency and the fact that it includes melatonin to keep her skin calm while the other mark-reducing ingredients (including tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and azelaic acid) do their thing. “For more stubborn spots, it can take over a month to see results, but it’s worth it,” she says.
“After just six days of nightly use, I’ve noticed a difference in my stubborn areas of hyperpigmentation,” says Cherry, who also tested out this pick. “The serum has flattened the breakouts on my chin and started reducing the discolouration. I made sure to pair it with daily SPF. Although I don’t have sensitive skin, I’m happy to report that I didn’t experience any irritation from daily use. I’m excited to see even more progress in 3 weeks and will continue using it consistently. So far, it’s living up to the hype!”
Pros & ConsPros- Formulated for melanated skin tones
- Calming formula
Cons- Can take time to see results
- Key ingredient(s): Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Size: 1 fl. oz.
Why we love it: GLAMOUR staffers have tested dozens of Skinceutical products, and overwhelmingly give the brand’s products rave reviews. Derms agree that if you’re targeting dark spots from the sun, acne, or medical procedures, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Typically, Dr. Castilla recommends a combination approach to treating hyperpigmentation — that’s why she loves the trio of synergistic brightening ingredients present in Skinceuticals’ Discoloration Defence formula: tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide. This powerhouse product comes at a higher price tag than other dark spot correctors, but clinical studies have shown that it can be effective at reducing discolouration. Dr. Castilla also notes that this formula is safe to use during pregnancy.
GLAMOUR US Commerce Writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary has been a huge fan of this dark spot serum for about three years now. “This serum is extremely lightweight, melts into the skin, and absorbs quickly, which makes it easy to incorporate into my morning skin-care routine. After using it on and off for a couple of years, I always find myself going back to it when I have a stubborn spot left over from a pimple, and it takes about three weeks for it to fully fade away. This serum is consistent and reliable for that reason, and will always be my go-to solution. The only thing I don’t love about this pick is that it’s a little sticky and oxidizes quickly, so I recommend using it all at once. If you want to use it on a case by case basis like me, keep it stored somewhere dark and cool.”
Pros & ConsPros- Pregnancy-safe
- Extremely lightweight
Cons- It’s a little sticky
- Expensive
- Key ingredient(s): Squalane, vitamin C, white shiitake.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Size: 1.01 oz.
Why we love it: GLAMOUR US' Kilkeary has been using this dark spot corrector since its launch in 2021, and it’s probably the serum that she reaches for most among this list.
“I first started using it after I went through a rough bout of pandemic-induced acne, which left me with a slew of dark spots. After using it every day for about a month, I almost immediately saw improvement and clarity in the areas that frustrated me the most around my nose and chin. These formerly congested spots were often red and darker, harboring the ghost of my acne’s past, but this little serum slowly but surely brightened these areas with ease.
"I also noticed an improvement in my skin texture after using this for some time: It’s a lot smoother and less bumpy than it used to be. The consistency of this one is great as well because it absorbs super quickly, doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue, and most importantly, it’s fragrance-free and gentle. If I had to shout from the rooftops about a holy grail skin-care product I couldn’t go on without, it’s probably this one.”
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Gentle
Cons- Pricey
- Key ingredient(s): Niacinamide, exfolactive (prickly pear extract).
- Skin types: Normal, dry, combination, oily.
- Size: 5 fl. oz.
Why we love it: Suitable for all skin types, this acid-free hydrating facial toner is a favourite of Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist specialising in medical and cosmetic dermatology. She loves that it’s “powered by exfoliating prickly pear, plus peptides to support skin cell turnover,” she says. “It also contains sodium hyaluronate, shea butter, and niacinamide,” which collectively help soften, soothe, and smooth the skin.
This toner has withstood the test of time for GLAMOUR US' Kilkeary, who has been reaching for it for over a year now. “The niacinamide helps blur my pores and gently sloughs off dead skin cells, which is much-needed for my often oily and combination skin complexion. I also love the peptides and hyaluronic acid in this pick because after application my skin looks taught and plump. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking to dip their toe into a dark spot corrector formula, without full commitment to a serum.”
Pros & ConsPros- Acid-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Glowy formula
Cons- Can be drying
- Key ingredient(s): Tranexamic acid, ferulic acid, vitamin E.
- Skin types: All skin types, including sensitive.
- Size: 1.01 oz.
Why we love it: “Vitamin C is key for preventing skin damage and dark spot formation in the first place,” says Dr. Engelman, who recommends incorporating one into your morning skin-care routine. Kilkeary gave this serum a rigorous test over the course of a month and was very pleased with how it addressed and faded the dark spots.
“This pick is chock-full of antioxidants, too, like guava, ferulic acid, and vitamin E, and always leaves my skin looking glowy and fresh after application.”
Pros & ConsPros- Exfoliates and brightens
- Evens out tone and texture
Cons- Fragranced - may irrirate sensitve skin types
- Expensive for small bottle
Your dark spot corrector FAQs, answered:
What are dark spots?
A dark spot is an area of extra pigment in the skin, Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, tells Glamour. They can come in a variety of forms, including age spots, sun spots, and melasma. And though they often fade in time, skincare products like dark spot correctors can speed up the process, evening out your skin tone.
Ingredients like hydroquinone, turmeric, and other proven brighteners accelerate skin resurfacing and minimise pigment, says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group.
What ingredients should you look for in a dark spot corrector?
Dark spot correctors help break down hyperpigmentation and can prevent the formation of dark spots by inhibiting the transfer of melanin to skin cells, says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified NYC-based dermatologist. But it all comes down to the ingredients that help you get there.
Dermatologists say to look for alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs (such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid), retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Dr. Engelman also recommends kojic acid, which is derived from fermented rice, for newer dark spots and acne scars.
According to board-certified dermatologist Hope Mitchell, MD, tranexamic acid, cysteamine, azelaic acid, soy, and arbutin are also options that work well to lighten dark spots. “These ingredients will inhibit melanin production and accelerate skin cell turnover, which helps fade pigmentation over time,” she notes.
There is another ingredient, called hydroquinone, which can also be effective for lightening dark spots, but derms recommend proceeding with caution. “This ingredient is not safe for those with deeper skin tones, and in some cases, it can actually exacerbate hyperpigmentation in individuals with darker skin,” says Dr. Engelman.
How to incorporate dark spot correctors into your routine
The dermatologists we spoke with recommend using dark spot correctors like vitamin C, AHAs, azelaic acid, ferulic acid, and alpha arbutin in the morning – and dark spot correctors like retinol in the evening, as it can make skin extra sensitive in the sun. And remember: You should avoid using products like retinol and vitamin C serum simultaneously; doing so is likely to cause irritation, says Dr. Castilla. Additionally, consistency is key, and sunscreen will make a world of a difference, according to Dr. Mitchell.
Does retinol help dark spots?
“Retinol, also known as vitamin A, can help fade hyperpigmentation marks by stimulating cell turnover, so regular use can help fade dark spots over time and has many benefits for the appearance, health, and function of skin overall,” says Dr. Engelman. It’s important to note that retinol can be slightly irritating and drying to certain skin types, so it’s key to build up your tolerance while using it (start with applying it once a week, then twice a week, every other day, and so on).
**READ MORE: The best retinol body products. **
How to treat dark spots on the face
There are many different ways to remove dark spots on the face: laser treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and dark spot correctors. The latter is most accessible both from a convenience and a cost perspective, since you can use them daily in the comfort of your own home.
How to treat dark spots on the body
If you’re looking to correct dark spots on the body, look for retinol-based body lotions and creams. Peep the ingredient list for vitamin C for brightening and niacinamide for anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits. “And make sure to exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells,” says Dr. Mitchell. As always, sunscreen is critical for both the face and body to prevent further darkening.
