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Beauty/Skin/Serums & Treatments

Top 10 Beauty Products For An Uneven Skin Tone

Meet The Products That Have Helped Reviewers Even Out Their Skin

Image credits: sephora

Whether it's discoloration from hours spent on the beach or dark spots left behind from the pesky blemishes you had in your teen years, there are tons of factors that can contribute to an uneven skin tone. The technical term for it is hyperpigmentation, and it can result from anything that causes your skin trauma—think sun exposure, picking at pimples, and cystic acne. An uneven skin tone can be complicated to conceal and even trickier to get rid of for good, and if your goal is to do so, patience is vital. Dermatologists say that, on average, it can take up to six weeks of regularly applying topicals to see a difference. However, it's important to note that diligence won't do you much good if you're skipping the sunscreen. Since overproduction of melanin is what causes hyperpigmentation, forgetting SPF will only make matters worse. 

The good news? You don't need to make a trip to the derm to address concerns of uneven skin, because the beauty shelves are packed with various products that cater specifically to this issue. Formulated with gentle exfoliating ingredients like AHAs and BHAs and brightening ingredients like ascorbic acid (also known as vitamin C), over-the-counter products can end your quest for an even skin tone. Not to mention, they can also send you on your way to baby soft, glowing skin—sometimes in as little as a few days (or minutes, in Sunday Riley's case). To shop the internet's best serums, masks, and peels for correcting an uneven skin tone, look no further. Ahead, we've rounded up 10 algorithm-approved, skin-evening beauty buys that deserve a spot on your top shelf.

How We Found The Best Products For Uneven Skin

Ahead, we've rounded up an edit of the internet's most recommended beauty products for uneven skin. From travel-friendly peels to cult-favorite serums like Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, these are the best products for correcting uneven skin. To make sure of this, we used our handy algorithm. This proprietary tool factors in data from rave reviews, best-seller lists, social media buzz, and more to discover and rank top-rated products loved by consumers. So without further ado, keep scrolling to shop the best skincare products for uneven skin tones.

Next up, check out the 10 Best Toners.

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June 22, 2022

Written By:Rank & Style

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: dermstore
Rank & Style Approved

dermstore

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Overall Score

4.45

10

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

4.31

806 User Reviews

3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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WHO IT'S FOR: Safe to use during pregnancy, this exfoliating formula is an ideal choice for mamas-to-be—especially those struggling with pregnancy-induced melasma.

WHAT IT DOES: Free of hydroquinone, this squeaky-clean formula boasts a potent concentration of tranexamic acid, a brightening ingredient that minimizes discoloration. With continued use, it's been proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration.


Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Firming And Dark Spot Correcting Moisturizer

Overall Score

4.5

09

Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Firming And Dark Spot Correcting Moisturizer

4.47

1349 User Reviews

3.1

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHAT IT DOES: This powerful moisturizer tackles multiple steps in one. On top of providing deep hydration to the skin, it's powered by linseed extract that lifts and firms, smooth wrinkles, and visibly reduces dark spots. To top it all off, it's infused with SPF 30 for sun protection.

USER REVIEW: "This is a wonderful product. I started using it a couple of years ago when I noticed some darker spots (age spots) appearing. After a few weeks, I noticed them fading. In fact, I told girlfriends and they all agree it works. It goes on light and has a pleasant smell. I won't use anything else."


SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum

Overall Score

4.55

08

SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum

4.5

2878 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHAT IT DOES: The two active formulas in this serum work together to smooth wrinkles and regenerate skin cells. One targets existing lines, while the other strengthens skin and helps prevent the future signs of aging.

WHY YOU NEED IT: Pricey? Yes—but we promise it's worth it. This formula is pumped with high concentrations of skin actives to deliver rapid results.


Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Overall Score

4.55

07

Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

4.24

2410 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHAT IT DOES: There's a reason this cult-favorite brightening serum comes with a high price tag. Infused with the gold standard of vitamin C—tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate—which is both highly stable and oil-soluble, the formula rapidly absorbs into the skin for serious brightening and line-smoothing benefits. Bonus: the heavenly orangey scent is the perfect pick-me-up on early mornings.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Unlike most vitamin C serums, this one has a thicker, richer consistency—almost like a moisturizer—that instantly melts into the skin.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Obagi Professional-C Serum

Overall Score

4.65

06

Obagi Professional-C Serum

4.71

3350 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHAT IT DOES: Equal parts hydrating and brightening, this serum is designed to penetrate deep into the skin. With a boost from ascorbic and hyaluronic acid, you'll notice a more even skin tone and nourished skin.

WHO IT'S FOR: As we age, common signs of aging like discoloration and pesky dark spots begin to appear. This concentrated formula infuses your skin with Vitamin C that neutralizes free radicals. If left untreated, free radicals cause a breakdown in collagen that can lead to premature aging and dark spots. 


iS Clinical Active Serum

Overall Score

4.75

05

iS Clinical Active Serum

4.64

1282 User Reviews

3.1

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHO IT'S FOR: Powered by salicylic acid, this hardworking serum can tackle even the worst blemishes while it fights fine lines and wrinkles. According to one reviewer, it's the sole reason her cystic acne has completely subsided.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This brightening serum is a cult favorite for a reason. It can handle a ton of skincare woes, including fine lines, breakouts, redness, and acne scars. The best part? It's proven to deliver both instant and long-term results.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

Overall Score

4.75

04

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

4.38

13595 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHAT IT DOES: This cult-favorite AHA treatment plumps the look of fine lines and wrinkles in as few as three minutes. Yes, you read right. Since it relies on ingredients like lactic acid, it gently exfoliates away dead cells to reveal glowing skin instantly—no irritation included.

BEAUTY HACK: If you're going to use a product this good, you may as well do it with your derma roller so your skin can fully absorb its pricey, complexion-perfecting benefits. Formulated with purified lactic acid, the all-in-one treatment gently and effectively exfoliates the skin, speeds up cell turnover, and fights hyperpigmentation to provide a glow like no other.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

Overall Score

4.8

03

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

4.6

15460 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Dr. Gross's signature anti-aging peel pads are formulated to combat common signs of aging, and they're conveniently packaged for easy skincare on the go. Unlike harsher chemical peels, these are safe to use morning or night and offer accelerated results thanks to a combination of seven acids.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Want more out of your skincare routine? This super-charged formula contains malic acid, antioxidants, and willow bark extract that refine, rejuvenate, and prep the skin for a more effective routine.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator

Overall Score

4.85

02

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator

4.72

17677 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHO IT'S FOR: For those seeking dewy, smooth skin, this formula is a must-grab. Since it's formulated with papain enzymes, it draws out excess oil and improves the look of skin texture and pores to provide a smooth, bright finish.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Sometimes, not even green concealer can camouflage redness. Thanks to soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, this formula tamps down on redness and leaves the skin feeling hydrated. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

Overall Score

5

01

Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

4.7

11060 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Advanced Anti-Aging Serum

WHAT IT DOES: C E Ferulic is one of the most talked-about serums on the market. Known for delivering next-day results, the formula slows down the aging process and minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and even dark spots.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Vitamin C is a notoriously unstable ingredient, but this formula is different. Once absorbed, it remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours. If you don't think you need it, think again. According to experts, the earlier you add vitamin C into your routine, the longer your complexion will remain youthful and radiant.

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