15 Best Dark Spot Correctors For Beautiful & Clear Skin – 2023
Enjoy spotless, clear skin and enhanced complexion with the right products at hand.
Sarah AbrahamCertified Makeup Artist
Expertise: Makeup
Experience: 5 years
Sarah Abraham is a professional makeup artist and the founder of Blushastic. She studied at Florida Academy of Health & Beauty and is a certified MUA from Lakme Academy with five years of experience. Sarah is committed to uplift women and e... more
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Anjali SayeeCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Hairstyles, Hair Care, & Skin Care
Experience: 7 years
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy ... more
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It is difficult to get rid of dark spots once they become old. On the contrary, these spots get darker when you are constantly exposed to the sun or have sensitive, acne-prone skin. To help you out, we have listed the best dark spot correctors for you to try.
Products with retinol, vitamin C, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, niacinamide, SPF, and kojic acid are recommended and validated by leading dermatologists. These elements have been tested for their effectiveness in lessening the appearance of acne scars, sunspots, age spots, and freckles by exfoliating hyperpigmented skin and lightening its look.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the 15 best dark spot correctors available online. Scroll down!
In This Article
15 Best Dark Spot Correctors For The Face
1. Olay Luminous Tone Perfecting Cream– Best Drugstore Cream
Image: Olay If you are looking for a drugstore dark spot corrector, the Olay Luminous Tone Perfecting Cream is the answer. It is formulated with advanced skin tone correcting ingredients, like niacinamide (vitamin B3) and antioxidants, that penetrate the deep layers of the skin to offer visible results in the treatment of sun and dark spots.
This dark spot cream with Pearl Optics Science eliminates skin discoloration and makes the skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing within a few weeks. It is fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and suitable for all skin tones. This dark spot treatment can be used as a day and night moisturizer.
Pros
- Absorbed quickly
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Affordable
Cons
- Contains fragrance
StyleCraze Trivia2. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Crème– Best Retinol Anti-Aging Cream
The RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Crème is a non-comedogenic, anti-aging treatment infused with retinol and hyaluronic acid. It plumps and firms the skin, while fading spots of all kinds caused by overexposure to the sun or result of aging.
The antioxidants and chelating agents prevent retinol denaturation. Hyaluronic acid and vitamin E have shown proven efficacy in reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The pure RoC retinol helps remove dead and dull skin, revealing smooth and youthful skin. This clinically-proven product can be used daily, is oil-free and provides 24-hour hydration.
Pros
- 24-hour hydration
- Plumps the skin
- Smoothens and clarifies the skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Reduces wrinkles in 8 weeks
- Affordable
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Contains fragrance
Pro Tip3. Advanced Clinicals Dark Spot Corrector
Image: Advanced Clinicals The Advanced Clinicals Dark Spot Corrector contains skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, cocoa butter, and green tea that support skin regeneration and improve texture. It is also infused with lactic acid which gently exfoliates dead skin cells and offers refined, clear skin. This product supports overall skin health and promotes flawless, youthful-looking skin, giving you all the major reasons to try it pronto.
Pros
- Skin-brightening formula
- Targets sun spots and uneven skin tone
- Suitable for all skin types
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Affordable
- Lightweight
Cons
None
4. Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar– Best Dark Spot Cleanser
Image: Urbanskinrx What if you could start your dark spot correcting targeted treatment right from cleansing? The Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar comes with an exfoliating sponge to help slough off dead and pigmented skin. It is formulated with kojic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, and licorice root.
These complexion-perfecting ingredients reduce dark spots and even the skin tone, revealing healthy and soft skin. Moisten the sponge with lukewarm water. Apply the cleanser on your face and rub the sponge in a gentle, circular motion.
Pros
- Comes with an exfoliating sponge
- Rejuvenates the skin
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin
Pro Tip5. L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Dark Spot Corrector– Best Niacinamide Serum
The L’Oreal Paris Youth Code Face Serum brightens and smoothens your skin. It is scientifically formulated with niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, glycerine, butylene glycol, and chestnut seed extract. This dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic dark spot corrector helps fade dark spots, sun spots, age spots, and acne marks. It also makes your skin even-toned and plump.
This brightening serum treats signs of sun damage and premature aging. Reviews indicate that it successfully addresses issues of wrinkles, fine lines, brown spots, acne marks, and hyperpigmentation. This gentle formula is suitable for all skin types and tones.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Gentle formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for all skin types and tones
- Plumps the skin
Cons
- Contains fragrance
6. Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector
Image: Neutrogena The Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector adds youthful radiance to your skin. It is formulated with three key ingredients – vitamin C, retinol SA, and hyaluronic acid, which renew and brighten the skin with proven efficacy. This dermatologist-recommended face serum fades stubborn dark spots and skin discoloration within a week.
The hyaluronic acid attracts and locks moisture to make the skin smooth and plump. The tester’s experience reveals that this gentle formula is suitable for all skin tones and daily use. Apply sunscreen before stepping out to protect your skin from photo sensitivity.
Pros
- Adds a youthful radiance
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Suitable for daily use
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Contains fragrance
7. Divine Derriere Dark Spot Corrector
Image: Divine Derriere This serum by Divine Derriere targets common skin woes like dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. This clinically-proven lightweight formula is enriched with brightening components like tyrostat, melanostatine 5 peptide, and mulberry extract that help achieve a flawless, clear. This skin care treatment offers visible results in 4 weeks and imparts luminous skin.
Pros
- Reduces pore size
- Gentle exfoliating formula
- Imparts natural glow
- Treats melasma
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
None
8. Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Corrector & Optimizer– Best For Acne Scars
Have post-acne marks? Try the results-driven formula of the Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Corrector & Optimizer. It contains a CL-302 complex that reverses the appearance of dark spots and blemishes.
This face serum also protects the skin from future pigmentation and dark spots. It is gentle and soothes inflamed skin. According to reviewers, this fragrance-free serum also makes the skin soft and supple. It is allergy-tested, non-oily, absorbed quickly, and gives visible results in 4 weeks.
Pros
- Allergy-tested
- Fades acne-marks
- Fragrance-free
- Soothes the skin
- Softens the skin
- Non-greasy
- Absorbed quickly
- Suitable for all skin types and tones
- Visible results in 4 weeks
- Clinically proven results
Cons
- Faulty pump dispenser
9. Best Nourishing Formula:Evagloss Dark Spot Corrector Serum
Image: Evagloss The Evagloss Dark Spot Corrector Serum penetrates deep into the skin layers to promote even skin tone and effectively target dark spots and blemishes. It acts as a natural elixir, enriched with organic ingredients like kojic acid and arbutin that lighten the skin and reduce the excess production of melanin. The reviewer’s experience indicates that the lightweight formula does not feel greasy or heavy. This serum is suitable for all skin types and can be used on the face, inner thighs, elbows, neck, and even sensitive private areas.
Pros
- Nourishes the skin
- Lightweight
- Suitable for face and body
- Hydroquinone-free
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
None
10. HSBCC Beauty Dark Spot Corrector
Image: Hsbcc The HSBCC Dark Spot Corrector aims at giving you a clear and spotless skin while reducing pigmentation due to age and sun damage. The cream is an active blend of niacinamide, arbutin, vitamin E-2, licorice root extract, SOD, and noni. This potent blend increases the production of melanin by minimizing tyrosinase activity in the skin. Niacinamide in the formula accelerates metabolism, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and protects the skin from sun damage. This helps reduce dark spots over time. Remove melasma freckles, discoloration, scars, hyperpigmentations and age signs with this single spot corrector and give yourself a bright, spotless, clear skin tone. The quick-absorbing formula seeps into the skin without leaving any greasy residue.
Pros
- Offers UV protection
- Anti-aging benefits
- Lightens scars
- Non-sticky formula
- Antioxidant-rich formula
- Ideal for daily use
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- May take time to remove marks
11. Burt’s Bees Dark Spot Corrector– Best For Sensitive Skin
If you want to go all-natural, the Burt’s Bees Dark Spot Corrector is a great option. It contains retinol’s alternative, bakuchiol, which is gentle and safe on sensitive skin. The bakuchiol and antioxidant-rich vitamin C help fade dark spots, age spots, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation. This clinically-proven face cream also reduces fine lines and wrinkles, brightens and hydrates the skin, and evens out the skin tone. It is dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and SLS.
Pros- Gentle formula
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Petrolatum-free
- SLS-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
12. Pond’s Clarant B3 Dark Spot Correcting Cream
The Pond’s Clarant B3 Dark Spot Correcting Cream has a moisturizing formula enriched with niacinamide and vitamin B3 that fades dark spots and treats uneven skin tone to reveal radiant skin tone within 2-4 weeks. It also has vitamin E to protect your skin against environmental stressors. This dermatologist-recommended cream works as a great daily moisturizer for normal to dry skin types.
Pros
- Dermatologically tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Lightweight
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- Contains mineral oil
- Contains parabens
13. Kiehls Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution– Best Vitamin C Corrector
The Kiehls Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution is formulated with activated C, white birch, and peony extracts that brighten the skin and fade dark spots and discolorations. It evens out the skin tone and reduces post-acne marks. This dermatologist-tested product is suitable for all skin types and gives visible results within a few weeks, even when you apply it on your nipples or lips.
Pros
- Clinically-tested
- Suitable for all skin types
- Brightens the skin
- Gentle formula
- Quick absorbing
- Non-sticky
Cons
None
14. Murad Environmental Shield Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum– Best For Mature Skin
Image: Murad The Murad Environmental Shield Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum is formulated with rice bran extract, niacinamide, plankton extract, squalene, and soy amino acids. It is clinically proven to fade age spots, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
This expert-recommended serum also reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The vitamin C and oligopeptides help enhance the skin’s natural radiance. This cruelty-free product does not contain parabens, phthalates, gluten, mineral oil, and petroleum.
Pros
- Suitable for mature skin
- Lightweight
- Non-sticky
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- Cruelty-free
- Clinically-proven
Cons
- Expensive
15. ZitSticka Hyperfade Microdart Blur Patch– Best For Zit Spots
Struggling to get rid of the stubborn zit? Try the ZitSticka Hyperfade Microdart Blur Patch. It is a specially designed pimple patch with a hydrocolloid baking layer that helps dissolve the zit without leaving any dark spots. The clinically verified active ingredients, like niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, kojic acid, licorice root extract, and arbutin fade fresh dark spots, reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and brighten the skin. This thin patch can also be worn under makeup. This product is also proven to deliver visible results almost instantly, within a few applications.
Pros
- Easy stick-on
- Can be worn under makeup
Cons
- Expensive
These are the 15 best dark spot correctors that you can buy online. Before you decide on a product, go through this checklist to make the right choice.
What To Look For In A Dark Spot Corrector
- Skin Type: Check if the dark spot corrector is formulated for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, avoid products with high concentrations of vitamin C and retinol. Look for products with powerful anti-irritants.
- Ingredients: Check if the product contains vitamin C, retinol, bakuchiol, butylresorcinol, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, lactic acid, and kojic acid. These clinically backed skincare ingredients reduce dark spots effectively. If you have mature skin, look for a product with hyaluronic acid. You can also choose ethically-sourced products with vegan ingredients.
The Bottom Line
Dark spots are the common visible aging signs. Sarah Abraham, a certified makeup artist, states, “ There are various potential causes of dark spots, like sun exposure, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions.” And these spots get darker when exposed to the sun. So, you can use the best dark spot correctors to minimize the appearance of scars, freckles, age spots, and sunspots. The Olay Luminous Tone Perfecting Cream is lightweight and perfect for treating sun spots, while the Urban Skin Rx Cleansing Bar comes with an exfoliating sponge that helps remove pigmented skin. But if you want something for daily use, try the Neutrogena’s Tone Repair Corrector. These correctors are loaded with anti-aging ingredients that combat aging signs. In addition, the correctors remove the dead skin cells, minimize the appearance of wrinkles, and make the skin look youthful. You can also use them on your knees, elbows, armpits, and other spot-ridden areas. Consider investing in the non-greasy dark spot correctors that blend well on the skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. She believes that dark spot correctors help fade out aging spots and make your skin appear clearer. So, she browsed hundreds of reviews and researched various platforms and checked the user feedback to provide you with the best dark spot correctors. The spot corrector creams listed above rejuvenate the skin, keep it smooth, and minimize the visibility of acne marks, dark spots, and sunspots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vitamin C help with dark spots?
Yes, vitamin C helps fade dark spots, brown spots, sunspots, and age spots. However, it might make your skin photosensitive. Therefore, wear sunscreen before stepping out.
How long do dark spots take to fade?
Dark spots are stubborn and take time to fade. However, it might take up to 4-6 weeks to see effective results after following your skincare routine.
What is the most effective dark spot corrector?
The Kiehls Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution is the most effective dark spot corrector. The clinically-approved formula reduces acne marks within weeks and is suitable for all skin types.
How can I remove dark spots at home permanently?
• Get rid of stubborn dark spots at home with these six remedies.
• Mix lemon juice with yogurt. Apply the paste to your face as a mask.
• Apply buttermilk to your dark spots with cotton. Leave it for 20 minutes, then wash your face with clean water.
• Apply aloe vera extract to your dark spots.
• Apply tomato paste to your face and keep it on for 10 minutes. Then, wash your face with cold water.
• Apply ripe papaya paste to your face. Let it dry and wash it with clean water.
• Apply pure honey to your dark spots.
Does Retinol fade dark spots?
Yes. Retinol boosts collagen production and reduces dark spots. However, it takes a lot of time to show clearer skin.
How do you use dark spot correctors?
• Cleanse the face.
• Squeeze the product on your finger.
• Apply it to your face and spread it evenly.
• Rub the skin gently to absorb the product.
Do dark spot correctors work on freckles?
Yes. Freckles result from the overproduction of melanin, and dark spot corrector effectively diminishes them.
Can topical creams or serums fade dark spots?
Yes. Topical creams or serums with vitamin C or retinol are highly effective in treating and fading dark spots.
Should I be using SPF while trying to fade dark spots?
Yes. Although sunscreens do not help fade existing spots, wear them to prevent new dark spots, wrinkles, and blotchy patches.
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