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Beauty/Skin/Serums & Treatments

Top 10 Dark Spot Correctors

Introducing 10 Dark Spot-Fading Products That Actually Work—Starting At Just $12

Image credits: amazon

One of the most talked-about and seemingly unavoidable beauty concerns is, without a doubt, dark spots. They come in different shades and sizes, but when they do arrive, it’s almost impossible to unsee them. But before discussing the best dark spot treatments, it’s important to understand exactly what dark spots are and why they show up.

What Is A Dark Spot

A dark spot, also known as hyperpigmentation, age spots, or liver spots, typically looks like teeny circles or, for lack of better words, blobs on the skin; like a freckle but slightly bigger. The good news is that they are, for the most part, harmless, unless tied to a more serious skin condition. In that case, a visit to the dermatologist should happen ASAP. Otherwise, it’s a purely cosmetic disturbance resulting from too much sun exposure, scarring left from acne or skin injury, or picking at the skin. 

How To Get Rid Of Dark Spots

Getting rid of dark spots requires a level of consistency not necessarily needed for other skincare issues. Not only must they be treated with something that will fade them, but that formula must also be deeply penetrative and highly effective. It also needs to be applied the same way every day—or however often the product calls for—and alongside other products that won’t disturb its efficacy, which, in turn, won’t take away from the expected results. 

Fading away dark spots is best done with the help of ingredients that cleanse, exfoliate, and/or brighten at a concentration high enough to be the same complexion as the rest of the skin. It’s also important to keep the area moisturized and protected by sunscreen, since some skincare solutions, like chemical acids, can sensitize the face.

Thankfully, the best dark spot remover for the face isn’t locked away in some top-secret chamber only accessible by shoppers with celebrity status. In fact, the internet offers a wealth of options for tackling this common skincare concern. You might even find some of the most effective remedies right at your local drugstore, where prices are reasonable, but the results can be truly remarkable. To assist you in your search for the perfect dark spot corrector that fits your budget, we've compiled a list of the most sought-after treatments available both in-store and online.

How We Found The Best Dark Spot Removers And Drugstore Dark Spot Correctors

This list represents the best-reviewed, over-the-counter creams for dark spots on the face, all of which have been rigorously vetted by Rank & Style’s proprietary algorithm. Each product is scored and ranked according to a spectrum of shopping data, including social media buzz, notable mentions in publications, industry insider recommendations, expert commentary, and more. This results in a comprehensive list of highly effective and widely popular dark spot removers that have been tried and tested by shoppers and industry professionals. Our recommendations take into account varying skin tones and individual goals, ensuring that every individual will find a suitable product. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best dark spot removers and drugstore correctors in the market.

Next up, check out the 10 Best Brightening Face Serums.

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May 17, 2023

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: ulta
Rank & Style Approved

ulta

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Overall Score

4.65

10

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

3.96

2775 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.

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Best Dark Spot Corrector For Acne

WHY YOU NEED IT
If you're looking for an effective solution to treat dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or uneven skin tone, this brightening serum is your answer. Its potent formula combines the power of advanced skincare technology with carefully selected natural ingredients to visibly reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration, revealing a more luminous and youthful-looking complexion.

WHO'S IT FOR
Unlike many other dark spot treatments, Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution is also gentle on the skin. It's carefully formulated with soothing ingredients such as white birch extract and peony extract, which help to calm and nourish the skin, minimizing the risk of irritation. This makes it suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin.

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner

Overall Score

4.65

09

Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner

4.32

4935 User Reviews

5

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.

Best Toner For Dark Spots

WHAT IT DOES
Ole Henriksen’s dark spot solution is a potent alcohol-free toner enriched with a high concentration of alpha-hydroxy acids and witch hazel water to more quickly shrink dark spots. Still, it’s safe to use daily since the formula also includes skin-soothing chamomile and licorice extracts.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
If your skin is on the drier side, follow up with a rich moisturizer to prevent irritation.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


It Cosmetics Bye Bye Dark Spots Niacinamide Serum

Overall Score

4.65

08

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Dark Spots Niacinamide Serum

4.33

2442 User Reviews

5

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.

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Sensitive Skin

WHAT IT DOES
This concentrated serum is formulated with 1% ethyl vitamin C and 4% niacinamide to reduce the appearance of age spots and boost skin radiance. Other notable ingredients, such as glycerin and a water base, keep it from drying out the skin. It’s also gentle enough for use on sensitive skin. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Since this product contains salicylic acid and other exfoliants that increase photosensitivity, be sure to follow with sunscreen during the day.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Dark Spot Serum

Overall Score

4.75

07

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Dark Spot Serum

4.46

8227 User Reviews

5

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.

Best Brightening Serum For Dark Spots

WHAT IT DOES
Caudalie’s serum is a prime option for those who are sensitive to vitamin C products. Instead, this serum utilizes a plant-based alternative, vine sap viniferine, to minimize and prevent discoloration. A biomimetic, or safe synthetic, emulsifier boosts the efficacy of the vine sap. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Olive-based squalane acts as a carrier for the active ingredient while also hydrating the skin.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream

Overall Score

4.75

06

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream

4.48

47349 User Reviews

5

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.

Best Drugstore Dark Spot Corrector

WHAT IT DOES
Retinol, the vitamin A derivative frequently name-dropped by beauty editors and skin experts, is the ultimate multitasker. By speeding up the skin’s cell-turnover rate, it decreases the occurrence of many common issues, including dark spots. This one is also infused with hyaluronic acid to help the skin stay hydrated. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW

This is a favorite for sensitive skin types, as the formula is fragrance-free and dermatologist-approved. 


The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

Overall Score

4.75

05

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

4.38

4797 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.

Best Brightening Cream For Acne

WHAT IT DOES
This lightweight cream is also light on cost yet still highly effective. Its highly concentrated and most active ingredient is azelaic acid, a naturally occurring ingredient found in grains that's known for its anti-inflammatory properties. If you use it during the day, apply it before your sunscreen. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Azelaic acid is also a solution for reducing and preventing rosacea.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial Mask

Overall Score

4.8

04

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial Mask

4.46

5198 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.

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Uneven Skin

WHAT IT DOES
Drunk Elephant’s cult-favorite Babyfacial is as close as it gets to a professional chemical peel. Suitable for most skin types, except sensitive, its formula is a highly concentrated mix of 25% alpha-hydroxy and 2% beta-hydroxy acids that resurface the skin by targeting sebum and bacteria to improve texture and even out tone. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This one tingles and should only be used once per week. After you rinse off, be sure to replenish your skin with a rich moisturizer.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

Overall Score

4.85

03

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

4.29

14863 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

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.

Best Anti-Aging Toner For Uneven Skin

WHAT IT DOES
This lightweight liquid is a celebrity favorite for balancing dry and/or oily skin, though it’s perfectly suitable for all skin types. The formula is one of a kind—a proprietary “Pitera” complex made up of over 50 micronutrients that tackle dark spots, fine lines, and uneven texture. The formula hasn’t changed for over 40 years, and for good reason. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Apply this in the gentlest of ways by pouring just a quarter size of the product into your hands and patting it into the skin. Don’t put on your moisturizer until this is fully absorbed.


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

Overall Score

4.95

02

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

4.53

11838 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

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.

Best Dark Spot Corrector For Age Spots

WHAT IT DOES
Lactic acid, a powerful AHA, clarifies the skin by exfoliating dead cells from the surface. In this treatment, it joins forces with licorice, an ingredient that boosts the impact of lactic acid with its brightening properties. To ensure that this powerhouse duo doesn’t cause irritation, the formula is also enriched with multiple plant extracts that calm and soothe the skin. 

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
If you have sensitive skin, use this leave-on treatment as a face mask instead. Apply, leave on for 15 minutes, and rinse. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Overall Score

5

01

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

4.65

13127 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 Dark Spot Corrector Overall

WHAT IT DOES
When it comes to preventing discoloration, few products are name-dropped more than SkinCeuticals’s cult-favorite C E Ferulic. The formula is 15% pure vitamin C, which brightens the skin and protects it from environmental stressors. The next most powerful ingredient is vitamin E, known for its moisture-restoring properties. Coming in third is a .5% concentration of ferulic acid, a plant-based antioxidant that helps stabilize the former two ingredients and acts as a protective shield for the skin. 

WHAT SHOPPERS SAY
“I am 37 with combination skin, normal on my cheeks, dry around my eyes, occasional breakouts on my t-zone, sun spots and melasma above my upper lip. I really like this product! It absorbs really nicely and doesn’t leave an oily feeling. I have found that it has definitely improved the firmness of my skin and brightened my overall skin tone. I haven’t had any increase in my breakouts, which is nice since many products tend to do that.”

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

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