Dark spots on the face can be a distraction from natural beauty. We try covering them with makeup and concealer products, but they stubbornly show themselves before the end of the day. Sometimes they make us feel too self-conscious to have the freedom to go makeup-free. Eventually, we may decide to choose a fading cream or serum to diminish the appearance of the distracting spots of pigmentation on our faces.

But how do you choose the best dark spot corrector for you? How do these products actually work?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the most common cause of dark spots on the face and hands is sun damage. Most dark spot correctors contain both agents to reduce the production of melanin in skin cells, and vitamins with powerful antioxidants to combat the free radical cells in sun-damaged skin which cause discoloration and fine lines.

Dark spot correctors are commonly formulated into lotions, creams, or serums, and are typically applied twice per day, with results seen within four weeks.

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The biggest decision when choosing the best dark spot corrector for your skin revolves around how quickly you want it to work and whether you are willing to use harsh chemicals. Are you okay with a fast-acting corrector that may irritate your skin? Perhaps you prefer something better-suited for sensitive skin — even if it takes a little longer to work. Or maybe you’d prefer a product that blends the best properties of both science and nature to give you a clearer, brighter complexion?

We've rounded up the best products out there to help you decide — whatever your priorities are.

Voibella Beauty Skin Brightening Cream and Dark Spot Corrector may be the best dark spot corrector for those who appreciate natural ingredients in a gentle but effective formula to fade dark spots such as freckles, sun spots, age spots, acne scars, and any hyperpigmentation on the face. It’s also formulated to fade dark areas in sensitive spots such as armpits and intimate parts such as buttocks, bikini area, inner thighs and even privates.

Voibella Beauty Skin Brightening Cream and Dark Spot Corrector is gentle enough to use on any body part because it contains no hydroquinone or bleach. Instead, Voibella Beauty uses natural but effective fading ingredients such as Vitamin B3 which prevents the transfer of pigment in skin, reducing dark spots.

Voibella contains several active ingredients, including kojic acid which is beneficial for reducing the production of melanin in skin cells. It also contains green tea for powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants fight skin-aging free radical cells which can aid in correcting sun damage and brightening dark spots and correcting uneven skin tone.

Voibella Beauty also uses botanical olive leaf extract, long known for its sun-damage reducing properties and ability to fade hyperpigmentation. Chamomile is added for its skin brightening properties to give skin an extra healthy glow.

Together the effective ingredients in Voibella Beauty Dark Spot Corrector fades dark spots on skin in a matter of weeks without harsh chemicals and without burning or stinging. This makes it safe enough for even areas with the most sensitive skin.

Key Features
  • Fade Cream for freckles, age spots, sun spots, and acne scars
  • Also whitens underarms and intimate areas
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 1.4 X 1.4 X 6.2 in
  • Product Weight: 1.7 oz
  • Vitamin Types: Vitamin B3
Pros
  • Less harsh than hydroquinone or bleaching
  • Natural ingredients
  • Gentle formula with natural ingredients
Cons
  • May be drying; use with moisturizer

If you are looking for a dark spot corrector cream that contains a beneficial combination of scientific and botanical ingredients for fading hyperpigmentation and discoloration, Active Bamboo Spot Corrector Cream may be the best dark spot corrector for you.

Active Bamboo is an effective treatment to fade sun spots, age spots, freckles, liver spots, melasma, or any brown discoloration on face, neck, chest, or hands.

Active Bamboo Spot Corrector Cream contains alpha hydroxy acids to help skin cell turnover to reveal brighter skin beneath. When used twice per day, Active Bamboo will show beneficial effects within a few weeks, with optimal results achieved within three months.

Active Bamboo Spot Corrector Cream contains ultra hydrating organic aloe, and the botanical benefits of essential oils from bamboo extract for antioxidant power to fight age-inducing free radical cells for clearer skin. Horseradish extract is also infused in this luxurious cream for its power to lighten skin by slowing production of melanin in skin cells.

Included in Active Bamboo Spot Corrector Cream are many other skin-beneficial, plant-based ingredients such as organic willow bark, lemon balm, ginseng, anise, fennel and licorice.

Active Bamboo Spot Corrector cream may be the best dark spot corrector for those who want results without the harshness of hydroquinone.

Active Bamboo is made in only small batches here in the USA, and is dermatologist tested for results and skin safety. This spot corrector cream is safe for fading dark spots, discoloration or for whitening and brightening skin for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key Features
  • Age spot and dark spot remover cream
  • Contains active bamboo extract
  • Corrects dark spots and hyperpigmentation on face, body and sensitive areas
  • Skin whitening and brightening formula
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 2 X 2 X 2 in
  • Product Weight: 4 oz
  • Vitamin Types: Viatmin B5 and Vitamin E
Pros
  • Gentle enough for use on intimate parts
  • Hydroquinone-free for gentle use
  • Safe for all skin types including sensitive skin
Cons
  • Contains alpha hydroxy acid which may increase sun sensitivity

PurePeaks White Intense Lightening Cream is the best dark spot corrector for diminishing both brown spots such as liver and age spots, sun spots and freckles, and also for red spots such as acne scars and skin discoloration. It is formulated for face and hands, and is gentle enough to be used also in sensitive areas such as between the thighs and in the armpits.

PurePeaks uses a winning blend of science and nature for an innovative product that produces significant fading of dark spots and general skin whitening and brightening. It is formulated to improve melasma and other skin conditions. Nutrients are added to improve skin’s health and general texture and appearance while it whitens and brightens.

PurePeaks White Intense Lightening Cream uses natural Alpha Arbutin, a safer and gentler form of hydroquinone. Arbutin targets and inhibits the enzymes responsible for pigment formation to reduce melanin production in the targeted areas, gently and effectively lightening skin. PurePeaks also contains Niacinamide which is scientifically shown to reduce acne formation as it lightens acne scars and both brown and red discoloration.

PurePeaks also uses natural, plant-based ingredients such as oat protein for skin softening and soothing anti-inflammatory benefits, Aloe vera for deep hydration and to promote a strong moisture barrier for healthier skin. PurePeaks also adds super-fruit, mulberry extract for its powerful antioxidant benefits to fight free radicals in the skin that cause aging symptoms such as discoloration and fine lines.

Use sun protection while using PurePeaks White Intense Dark Spot Corrector, as it may cause increased sun sensitivity.

Key Features
  • Powerful Alpha Arbutin formula with hyaluronic acid and Collagen
  • Blends nature and science for best results
  • Corrects dark spots from acne, age spots, melasma
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: Not available
  • Product Weight: 1.7 oz
  • Vitamin Types: Vitamin C
Pros
  • Gentle enough for bikini area
  • Fades brown spots and redness
  • Results in four weeks
Cons
  • Must start with every other day application and work up to daily
  • Increases photo-sensitivity

Pure Biology Visibly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector is one of the best dark spot corrector choices for harnessing the power of super vitamins C and E for their clinically proven skin repair properties. It also uses Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, the most powerful derivative of vitamin C to boost the synthesis of collagen which minimizes pores and diminishes dark spots, age spots, sun spots, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and even fine lines.

Pure Biology is gentle and effective, with skin soothing argan oil for essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which is a powerhouse of anti-aging antioxidants to correct dark spots by correcting damage from free radical cells.

Adding to the power of natural vitamins is the potent skin-lightening agent, alpha-arbutin, a complex which lightens skin where it’s applied by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for melanin production, effectively allowing new skin cells to regenerate with less pigmentation.

With regular use twice daily, skin will be clearer with diminished dark spots in four weeks or less. Pure biology adds a skin-soothing bonus of calming oat oligopeptides, clinically shown to increase collagen production to improve skin texture and health, while soothing irritation and redness.

Pure Biology Visibly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector treats dark spots at their source, deep within skin cells, but without the harsh skin irritants found in many fade and whitening cream products, making this one of the best dark spot corrector choices for those who want effective fading of dark spots without harsh irritants.

Key Features
  • Vitamin C and E serum with anti-aging complex
  • Lightens and fades dark spots, acne scars, and under eye circles
  • Face brightening and and spot lightening serum
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 1.3 X 1.3 X 4.1
  • Product Weight: 1.7 oz
  • Vitamin Types: Vitamin C and E
Pros
  • Non-GMO and fragrance free
  • Contains alpha-arbutin for natural skin whitening effect
  • Promotes healthy skin with antioxidants and soothing oat oligopeptides
Cons
  • Serum is thin and runny, may drip out of place

If you are looking for fast, serious help for fading dark spots, freckles, sun spots, melasma, or acne scars, Ebanel Dr Brightening Ultra Potent Facial Serum with 2% Hydroquinone solution may be the best dark spot corrector for you. Hydroquinone is the most powerful treatment for dark spots on the skin care market today, and works by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for melanin, or dark skin pigment. It is potent enough to work even on the toughest skin of elbows and knees, as well as the finer skin of face and hands. Ebanel’s formula also includes several other potent skin whitening properties including alpha arbutin and niacinamide. Also added is vitamin C serum, a powerful antioxidant for fighting skin-aging free radicals often formed as a result of sun damage.

Ebanel Dark Spot Corrector exfoliates dead and damaged skin cells to reveal newer cells beneath, treated with powerful skin lightening ingredients to diminish dark spots and discoloration, resulting in clearer, blemish-free skin. Ebanel adds hyaluronic acid for deep hydration within skin cells, resulting in this product being one of the best dark spot correctors for including beneficial moisturizing and anti-aging benefits such as reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Ebanel Dr Brightening Ultra Potent Facial Serum offers dramatic results in four to six weeks with diminished dark spots and smoother, more evenly toned skin with improvements in fine lines and discoloration. Spots may temporarily appear darker and may flake and peel before revealing lighter clearer skin beneath.

Key Features
  • 2 percent Hydroquinone formula with Vitamin C
  • Lightens and fades dark spots from hyperpigmentation, acne scars, melasma etc.
  • Results in four to six weeks
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 3.8 X 1.3 X 1.3 in
  • Product Weight: 1.23 oz
  • Vitamin Types: Vitamin C
Pros
  • Highest percentage of hydroquinone available without a prescription
  • AHA and BHA for exfoliation to speed effects
  • Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
Cons
  • Dispenser may dispense more than needed and wastes product
  • May cause burning or stinging sensation

Tetyana Dark Spot Corrector Brightening Serum may be the best dark spot corrector for those looking for a beneficial blend of properties to diminish dark spots with additional anti-aging benefits. It is safe and effective for use on the face as well as other parts of the body such as arms, legs, between the thighs, and even the tough skin of knees and elbows.

Tetyana is formulated with five ingredients to fade dark spots and improve the health of the skin as well as delaying the signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles—all while it nourishes dry skin.

Tetyana’s formula contains 4 Butylresorcinol which inhibits the key enzymes that regulate melanin production, effectively lightening skin where it is applied.

Also in Tetyana Dark Spot corrector is kojic acid, another strong inhibitor of melanin production, lactic acid for collagen renewal to improve skin’s tone and color, fade dark spots and smooth lines and wrinkles. Salicylic acid is also in Tetyana’s winning formula to work deep within the skin cells to encourage regeneration of cells, replacing old dead cells with healthy new ones. Morinda Citrifolia extract is included for the powerful antioxidant properties of vitamin A and C.

This powerful blend of dark spot diminishing and skin brightening and clearing ingredients makes Tetyana’s formula the best dark spot corrector for blocking the regeneration of melanin in skin, while whitening, brightening and reducing the signs of aging.

Be sure to protect yourself from the sun while using Tetyana Dark Spot Corrector Brightening Serum.

Key Features
  • Face and body dark spot fading serum with 4-Butylresorcinol, lactic acid, and other ingredients
  • Effectively decreases melanin production in hyperpigmentation
  • Blend of five ingredients for fading dark spots
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: Unavailable
  • Product Weight: 1 fl oz
  • Vitamin Types: Natural Vitamin C and A
Pros
  • Contains skin nourishing ingredients that diminish wrinkles while fading dark spots
  • Blocks melanin regeneration to fade spots
Cons
  • May sting or burn on contact

Dark spots on the face and hands can be the result of sun damage from UV exposure which accumulates as we age. Other dark areas are related to skin conditions like melasma, or hormones due to pregnancy. Dark spots can also be left behind from acne breakouts and acne-related scarring.

Over the years, many fade creams have been formulated to brighten dark spots and whiten skin. In Asia, skin whitening products have long been considered a beauty staple in every woman’s skincare regimen, and skincare and cosmetics companies offer many brands for lightening and brightening skin.

Improvements Resulting in the Best Dark Spot Correctors of Today

Thanks to modern research and innovation, today’s dark spot correctors have come a long way from the ingredients in the tub of Porcelana your mother kept on her vanity table.

Today’s best dark spot correctors offer a choice of science-based agents such as hydroquinone to reduce the melanin production taking place deep within skin cells, or alpha arbutin, a milder derivative of hydroquinone. Retinoids are often added to encourage the growth of new, healthier skin cells. Many other products combine potent plant-based ingredients known for their ability to brighten and whiten skin, while also improving skin’s overall texture and health.

Many of today’s best dark spot correctors rely on the powerful antioxidant properties of vitamin C, B, and E. Antioxidants target and combat the free radical cells found in skin due to environmental factors such as sun exposure. Antioxidants can improve the color and tone of the skin by correcting the over-production of pigment due to sun damage and aging.

Today you will find dark spot correcting creams and serums that are also infused with beneficial essential oils to nourish and tone the skin. Deep hydrating properties may be added, such as hyaluronic acid and natural aloe vera to add essential moisture to the skin and to allow the deeper penetration of dark spot reducing agents into skin cells to improve their function.

How to Choose the Best Dark Spot Corrector For You

In order to choose the best product to fade your bothersome dark spots, you must decide: Do you prefer the gentle effects of botanicals which may take more time and result in less permanent change? Or are you willing to endure some mild discomfort and irritation associated with hydroquinone— which can cause temporary worsening of dark spots and skin peeling or scabbing before resulting in the more dramatic and permanent elimination of dark spots?

Whichever you choose, your results should reveal not only the diminishing of dark spots but also clearer, healthier skin.

Resources— Health, Fashionista, Loreal Paris

FAQ

Q: How can dark spot correctors benefit my skin?

Dark spot correctors are an excellent choice for getting rid of any discoloration or spots which may arise due to overexposure of your skin to sunlight.

As a result, they will ensure your skin appears especially even, lending it a special blemish-free allure.

And because the best of them often come with ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids, vitamin C, and niacinamide, they’ll also encourage collagen production, reduce inflammation, and even prevent breakouts.

And that means you can expect them to not only make your skin look radiant, but feel better as well.

Q: What are the most effective ingredients I should look out for?

With an extensive selection of products on the market, several manufacturers rely on an equally extensive range of ingredients in order to provide their customers with blemish-free skin. However, some of the most popular and especially effective ingredients include:

Niacinamide: One of vitamin B’s many incarnations also known as B3, niacinamide is a firm favorite of manufacturers of skin care products.

The multifaceted chemical is not only capable of reducing inflammation, but is also capable of rejuvenating your skin thanks to its ability to boost collagen production.

And because it also comes with blemish-fading qualities, it might be just what you need on your side when combating dark spots, especially since it’s great with sensitive skin too.

Vitamin C: Renowned for its ability to take on free radicals, encourage collagen production, and to also hydrate your skin, vitamin C is also pretty effective at combating dark spots. Especially since it’s capable of reducing the production of melanin and is ideal for most skin types.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids: A family of chemicals credited with possessing the secret to eternal youth, alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, as they’re also known, are also impressively multifaceted when it comes to caring for your skin like so many of the most popular ingredients used in skin care.

They will not only exfoliate, rejuvenate, and stave off breakouts, but will also brighten your skin.

And because they also encourage cell turnover, they will also usher out those old, hyperpigmented cells, so that they’re replaced by new cells which look just right.

Q: What ingredients should I steer clear of?

What ingredients should I steer clear of?

Although there are several ingredients which can enable you to clear blemishes from your skin safely, there are however a number of them which come with caveats attached to them, including the following:

Hydroquinone: A highly popular ingredient in dark spot correctors, hydroquinone’s claim to fame lies in its ability to reduce the melanocytes in your skin. However, it is believed to be a carcinogen and has been banned in the European Union, as a result.

Mercury: Another highly sought after ingredient by certain manufacturers of dark spot correctors, mercury simply halts the production of melanin.

However, it also comes with the risk of kidney damage and a reduction in your skin’s ability to withstand fungal and bacterial infections.

Names to look out for when examining product ingredients include: ammoniated mercury, cinnabaris (mercury sulfide), Hg, hydrargyri oxydum rubrum (mercury oxide), mercury, mercuric iodide, and quicksilver.

Q: How do dark spot correctors work?

The best dark spot correctors work by ridding your skin of those cells which have been discolored by abnormal pigmentation, while also providing relief to alleviate the discomfort resulting from the exposure that triggers the process, which gives rise to the blemishes on your skin.

Such products also encourage the production of brand new cells and most importantly, put a stop to the production of abnormal pigmentation. Through this entire process, these dark spot correctors are able to ensure that unpleasant blemishes are banished, leaving renewed, blemish-free skin in their place.

Q: What natural alternatives are there?

There is no shortage of remedies provided by Mother Nature to ensure you’re able to get rid of those pesky blemishes and enjoy the skin you’ve always wanted.

A few efficient favorites include:

Apple Cider Vinegar: This wonder health food with qualities extolled by experts won’t just make you feel good but can also make you look amazing too. And it’s all thanks to the presence of acetic acid which lends this magic potion its ability to get rid of those old pigmented cells and encourage new cells to take their place, resulting in smooth, flawless skin.

Aloe Vera: Another multi-faceted natural remedy capable of working wonders on the inside and the outside, aloe vera will set to those dark spots with a will. Its secret? An active ingredient known as aloesin widely believed to contain pigment-busting properties.

Papaya: A delectable offering bursting with the flavor of the tropics, papaya has long delighted the palates of foodies all over the globe. And in addition to tasting good, it’s an excellent choice for eliminating dark spots too. The key to this rather impressive ability is its vitamin C content which will reduce the pigment content of your skin’s cells.

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