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No matter your best efforts, sometimes developing (and then figuring out how to get rid of) dark spots on your face, otherwise known as hyperpigmentation is inevitable. “Dark spots occur when the skin produces excess melanin, the natural brown pigment that gives our skin color,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. “The exact reason why dark spots appear ranges from acne scars to excessive sun exposure to aging to nutritional deficiencies. However, most dark spots are a result of sun exposure.”
At-Home Dark Spot Treatments:
- The Expert-Approved Serum: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, $182
- The Gentle Exfoliant: Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Treatment, $85
- The Retinol: SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex .25, $64
- The Daily SPF: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $41
- The Buzzy Serum: Topicals Faded Serum, $38
- The Supercharged Peel: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $92
- The Brightening Serum: Ourself Daily Dark Spot Intercept, $260
In This Article:
- What are dark spots?
- The Different Types of Dark Spots—And Why They Occur
- Which skin types are most prone to developing dark spots?
- Is it possible to get rid of dark spots entirely?
- How to get rid of dark spots on darker skin tones?
- What treatments help get rid of dark spots?
- What is the difference between age spots and dark spots?
- Can you get rid of dark spots fast?
- Can you get rid of dark spots naturally?
- Meet the Experts
“When your skin is exposed to the sun, its natural reaction is to produce melanin, which helps to block UV radiation from further damaging our DNA and skin. This is often why, when we go into the sun for prolonged periods, our skin gets tanned,” she says. “It is also the reason why individuals with fair skin easily burn in the sun while those with darker skin complexions are less likely to get sunburned. Sometimes, the sun causes an uneven increase in melanin production. This excess melanin gets clumped up and spills in between skin cells, giving the appearance of dark spots.”
In short, dark spots are a result of hyperpigmentation. Green notes that most dark spots, such as sun or age spots are preventable with proper SPF protection and sun avoidance. But, if you notice a new spot that changes in size or color, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist to rule out skin cancer. “Anything out of the ordinary, especially if you have fair skin or a family history of skin cancer, should be checked out. I recommend getting regular skin exams so nothing suspicious goes unnoticed,” Green says. Once you’ve determined that a new freckle is harmless, it’s time to prevent and treat it through your at-home skin-care regimen.
Below, dermatologists walk us through how to get rid of dark spots—from everyday sun protection to rejuvenating retinol treatments.
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Always Apply SPF
“Your first line of defense is always going to be sunscreen. Everyone should wear at least SPF 30 on their face daily and reapply every two hours if outside in the sun, or sitting next to a window,” notes Dr. Corey L. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
Green suggests the EltaMD UV Clear, dubbing it one of the best sunscreens out there. “This product is a lightweight oil-free face sunscreen that works well with all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin,” she says. "It is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use and also contains sodium hyaluronate and lactic acid which helps keep the skin hydrated and your pores clear.” Or, take your pick between La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane or Supergoop!’s Unseen, which pair sheer nourishment with ample SPF protection. Because our experts emphasize the need to apply sunscreen throughout the day, be sure to stock up on convenient formulas that make reapplication simple. Habit’s mister is a lightweight spray formula that delivers UV protection and won’t mess up your makeup.
Consider Antioxidant-Rich Products
“You also want to make sure you are using skin-care products with antioxidants, which are essential to helping reduce free radicals that can lead to hyperpigmentation,” says Hartman. Consider vitamins A, C, and E, as well as ferulic acid, resveratrol, and niacinamide. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alexis Stephens is a fan of Eadem’s Milk Marvel for fading post-acne dark marks. “The unique formula also helps to prevent future hyperpigmentation and gently resurface the skin. It is uniquely formulated with the key ingredients niacinamide, encapsulated vitamin C, amber algae and enzymes.” Stephens also likes the Isdin Sunisdin sun capsules to “help skin fight photoaging and the pro-pigmentation UV rays”—along with boosting overall radiance and elasticity. Otherwise, experts recommend the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic again and again for its environmental protection, or the cosmetic chemist-formulated BeautyStat Universal C to prevent signs of aging without oxidizing.
Reach for Retin-A or Retinol
“It’s also important to get into the habit of gently exfoliating the skin to remove dead skin cells that are often harboring excess pigment. This can be done by using a topical retinoid product that both treats and fades hyperpigmentation,” explains Stephens. While Green says that retin-a (tretinoin) or retinoids are best, an ingredient that can be picked up by a beauty subscription service like Curology, retinol is the next best bet without a prescription.
“Retinol is a weaker over-the-counter formula of retinoids and can provide similar benefits in reducing the appearance of dark spots, although it will typically take much longer,” Green explains. Take your pick of SkinCeuticals’s Retinol 0.3, SkinMedica’s Retinol Complex .25, or CeraVe’s Skin Renewing serum to experience the restorative benefits of the oft-recommended ingredient.
Incorporate Gentle Exfoliants
Hartman suggests “a product with an exfoliating active ingredient, like AHA, to help remove the top surface layer of the skin to treat dark spots.” This category of exfoliants includes glycolic, mandelic, and lactic acids which Stephens says “helps to remove dead skin cells while moisturizing the skin.” If you’d prefer a serum formula, Sunday Riley’s Good Genes is a solid option packed with lactic acid to exfoliate and brighten, whereas Alpha-H’s glycolic acid-enriched formula is an excellent liquid exfoliant known to improve skin tone and texture overnight. Similarly, at-home peels might be worth incorporating for those unable to get a professional treatment. Take options by M-61 or Dr. Dennis Gross’s peels, for example; these supercharged towelettes help reduce the look of discoloration through a cocktail of exfoliating acids.
Try Specialized Treatments
Thanks to a new class of specialized treatments, one can give their dark spots extra TLC. Those interested in a dermatologist-approved solution should seriously consider Cyspera’s system that Hartman advocates for. “Cyspera is my first choice for patients dealing with hyperpigmentation, especially patients of color, as hyperpigmentation can be difficult to treat successfully in darker skin,” he details. “Its active ingredient, cysteamine, is an exclusive amino acid derivative that helps reduce pigment and is effective in treating all skin tones.” Or, there’s board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss’s recently-launched brand, PillowtalkDerm, which features a Major Fade collection formulated, in part, based on her own experience treating melasma and discoloration.
On the other hand, there are a few contemporary beauty labels making waves for their efficacious offerings. There is Topicals Faded serum which uses a blend of tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide to reduce the look of dark spots, patches, and post-acne scarring. Ourself’s brightening serum, on the other hand, is powered by the brand’s patented technology enriched by the likes of peptides and powerhouse brightening ingredients, alongside vitamin C and niacinamide to intercept the overproduction of new melanin and lighten existing spots. Or perhaps a patch approach works best for your regimen? In that case, Hero Cosmetics recently launched a new and improved version of its Micropoint patches which deposits tranexamic acid, vitamin C, licorice root, and niacinamide onto dark spots through 395 micropoints to fade post-blemish marks.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
“The sunlight and visible light spectrum is responsible for the great majority of hyperpigmentation, hence the number one way to both prevent and treat dark marks is properly using and applying a broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 40+ with HEVL/blue light protection and taking additional sun protective measures with sunglasses, UPF clothing and seeking the shade when possible,” says Stephens. She reaches for the Bluestone Sunshields for extra protection. For the body, consider Lululemon’s shirt which offers UPF 40+ protection. “If possible, try to avoid going out for prolonged periods when the sun is at its strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.,” says Green, who adds that a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses are a good choice to protect your eyes and scalp from the sun.
What are dark spots?
Otherwise known as discoloration or hyperpigmentation, dark spots are any area of the skin that appear darker than the surrounding skin. “This is due to an excess production of melanin—the pigment responsible for skin color,” explains aesthetic physician Dr. Glenicia Nosworthy.
Something else to note is that there are different types of dark spots—and they can all show up on the skin in various forms. “They can appear as sunspots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can result from acne, bug bites, and other skin rashes,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick.
The Different Types of Dark Spots—And Why They Occur
Sunspots or Solar Lentigines: According to Dr. Nosworthy, sunspots are typically developed as a result of prolonged UV exposure. “They are commonly found on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms,” she adds.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This type of discoloration is a result of trauma or inflammation of the skin—and why derms caution us from popping our own pimples. However, PIH can also appear after an eczema or psoriasis flare-up. You will notice that once the skin has healed, any injured area may appear darker than the surrounding skin.
Melasma: “Melasma causes symmetrical, blotchy, brownish facial pigmentation, often appearing on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip,” Dr. Nosworthy shares. “It is thought to be related to hormonal changes and sun exposure, and it is more common in women, particularly during pregnancy or when using hormonal contraceptives.”
Age Spots or Liver Spots: Much like sunspots, age or liver spots are flat brown or black spots that appear as a result of long-term sun exposure.
Which skin types are most prone to developing dark spots?
Anyone can develop dark spots. However, the type and their triggers may vary, explains Garshick. “Those with fair skin may be more susceptible to sun spots resulting from cumulative UV exposure that leads to dark spots,” she shares. “Those with darker skin may be more likely to experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that appears as a dark spot as a result of increased melanin production.”
Nosworthy adds those with hormonally-sensitive skin—for example, those who are pregnant or taking hormonal contraceptives—as well as people who are prone to eczema or psoriasis are also more prone to developing dark spots like melasma or PIH as a result of hormonal fluctuations, skin trauma, or inflammation.
Is it possible to get rid of dark spots entirely?
Yes—which is great news for anyone with uneven skin tone due to dark spots. However, in order to treat them effectively, it’s important to develop a skin care routine that not only actively targets whichever form of discoloration you have, but also works to prevent it. “The most important thing is to remember sun protection,” says Garshick.
For at-home treatment, Garshick recommends speaking with a dermatologist first to diagnose which type of dark spots you have—then a skin care regimen can be developed. In general, she’s a fan of retinoids for hyperpigmentation, as they not only help to prevent acne in the first place, but also even out skin tone by stimulating cell turnover. “Other ingredients that may be helpful include azelaic acid, kojic acid, topical tranexamic acid, as well as chemical exfoliants and peels such as glycolic acid or lactic acid,” she adds.
Dark spots caused by melasma and sun or liver spots may be more difficult to treat at home. In this case, Nosworthy recommends seeing a dermatologist for an in-office treatment like NeoGen PSR, which Nosworthy describes as “a medical grade energy-based device that uses nitrogen plasma to regenerate the skin’s architecture.” “It is great at treating sun spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma, scarring—including acne scarring—and more. Most importantly, it can be used on all skin types—light and dark.”
If you choose to do an in-office procedure, just be sure to go over at-home aftercare protocols with your doctor once you’ve wrapped up each treatment. “Post-procedure care is especially important to minimize any potential for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation,” says Garshick. “It can help to use a product like RescueMD DNA Repair Complex to enhance recovery and minimize irritation, it also works great to reduce inflammation.”
How to get rid of dark spots on darker skin tones?
When it comes to getting rid of dark spots on darker skin tones, there are plenty of options, including retinoids, hydroquinone, laser treatments, and chemical peels. However, board-certified dermatologist Anetta Reszko says that caution must be used to avoid hyperpigmentation and scarring.
What treatments help get rid of dark spots?
There are various treatments to choose from, ranging from in-office procedures like lasers and peels to at-home products featuring chemical exfoliants. Specifically for at home use, Reszko suggests people use a selection of hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C, and kojic acid. “These active ingredients work by inhibiting melanin production and promoting skin cell turnover.” Sun protection is also key in preventing the production or worsening of dark spots. “Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it daily, even on cloudy days,” she warns.
- Hydroquinone: As a widely recognized topical agent for hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone works by inhibiting melanin production, effectively lightening dark spots and improving overall skin tone, explains Reszko. While it can be highly effective, it’s important to use it under dermatological supervision to minimize potential side effects like irritation or rebound pigmentation.
- Retinoids: “Renowned for their ability to accelerate cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, retinoids not only diminish dark spots but also address fine lines and wrinkles, making them a cornerstone in anti-aging skincare,” says Dr. Reszko. She suggests starting with lower concentrations to mitigate potential irritation and always pairing their use with broad-spectrum sunscreen due to increased skin sensitivity.
- Chemical Peels: “Chemical peels offer a customizable approach to dark spot reduction by exfoliating the skin’s surface and promoting cell regeneration,” says Reszko. There’s a wide range of peels on the market, from superficial to deep peels. Each tailored treatment can effectively diminish pigmentation irregularities, revealing a more radiant complexion. Some of her favorites include Trichloroacetic Acid Peel, otherwise known as a TCA Peel (stronger and penetrates deeper into the skin and typically requires a longer recovery period), as well as Environ’s Cool Peel Technology (which features a low concentration of acid and low pH cool peeling system). This peeling process ultimately helps refine, retexture, and rejuvenate the skin. Reszko suggests a series of mild peels rather than one intense peel, as they do not compromise the integrity of the epidermis, revealing the best skin. She also suggests going for a superficial peel such as salicylic, glycolic, or mandelic acid one, which is typically the better and safer option for people with darker skin. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen and moisturize the skin post-peel to optimize results.
- Laser Treatments: Reszko suggests opting for laser therapies such as Aerolase and Laser Genesis, which offer notable results with minimal downtime—both procedures are under 30 minutes and generally safe for most skin types. “By delivering specific wavelengths of light energy, these treatments effectively break down excess melanin while stimulating collagen production, yielding smoother, more even-toned skin,” she says. However, before you start these treatments, make sure you consult with an expert to ensure this is the best treatment plan for your skin concerns.
- Chemical Exfoliants: “Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) serve as potent chemical exfoliants, aiding in the removal of dead skin cells and promoting cellular turnover,” explains Dr. Reszko. She continues, “Incorporating these ingredients into skin-care routines can gradually fade dark spots while improving overall skin texture and clarity.” These can be strong, so make sure to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase frequency to minimize potential irritation (baby steps!), and make sure to pack on plenty of sunscreen.
What is the difference between age spots and dark spots?
According to Dr. Hartman, both age spots and dark spots are forms of hyperpigmentation. He explains that age spots are caused by the skin’s aging process; as we get older, the skin becomes less effective at regulating melanin production. These spots typically begin appearing in your 30s and 40s. In contrast, dark spots can develop at any age and are triggered by skin trauma, such as unprotected sun exposure or acne.
Can you get rid of dark spots fast?
Yes! “You can absolutely reduce and, in some cases, drastically lighten the appearance of dark spots,” says Dr. Hartman. He explains that mild cases often improve with a combination of skincare products that target hyperpigmentation, along with diligent sun protection—such as sunscreen and UPF clothing—to prevent new spots from forming. For moderate to severe dark spots, professional treatments performed by a board-certified dermatologist can be highly effective. These include chemical peels, which remove the outer layer of skin; laser treatments, which target the melanin-producing cells; and microdermabrasion, which exfoliates the skin to reduce deep discoloration.
Can you get rid of dark spots naturally?
The internet—especially Reddit—is filled with discussions about home remedies for dark spots. However, Dr. Hartman cautions that “at-home recipes with ingredients like apple cider vinegar and baking soda aren’t likely to have a meaningful impact on reducing their appearance.” Instead, he recommends using skin-care products with clinically proven active ingredients such as retinol, niacinamide, Malassezin, Naringenin, and vitamin C. For the best results, pair these at-home treatments with professional procedures like chemical peels or laser treatments performed by a board-certified dermatologist.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Glenicia Nosworthy is an internal medicine physician, specializing in aesthetic medicine. She’s also the founder of Glo by Glen, a non-surgical cosmetic optimization practice in Brooklyn, NY.
- Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist and a clinical assistant professor at Cornell University.
- Dr. Alexis Stephens is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Parkland Dermatology Cosmetic Surgery in Coral Springs, FL.
- Dr. Corey Hartman is the founder and medical director of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
- Dr. Michele Green is a Yale-educated cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City.
- Dr. Anetta Reszko is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City.
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