That said, it’s important not to apply certain ingredients simultaneously, says Dr. Castilla: “For example, avoid using a retinoid and a chemical exfoliant such as glycolic acid on the same day, as you are likely to cause irritation.” She also notes that “it’s really not worth it to invest in a dark spot corrector if you are not using face sunscreen consistently.”
Dr. Nasarian agrees, adding that “sun exposure to sunlight can keep those pesky dark marks around for even longer, and extend the time it takes for them to fade. Anyone that is using products to lighten dark spots should also be using a broad-spectrum sunscreen to help the cause.”
Your dark spot corrector questions, answered
How to use a dark spot corrector in your skincare routine
The dermatologists we spoke to recommend using dark spot correctors like vitamin C, azelaic acid, ferulic acid, alpha arbutin, and centella asiatica in the morning and dark spot correctors like retinol in the evening. And remember: You should avoid using products like retinol and vitamin C serum simultaneously. This kind of use is likely to cause irritation, says Dr. Castilla.
How to clear dark spots on the face
There are many different ways to remove dark spots on the face: laser treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and dark spot correctors like vitamin C serum. The latter is most accessible both from a convenience and cost perspective, since you can use them daily in the comfort of your own home.
How to remove dark spots on the body fast
Dark spot correctors aren’t limited to the face. Creams and serums that contain active ingredients like azelaic acid, vitamin C, retinol, and alpha hydroxy acid can also help fade hyperpigmentation and scarring on other parts of the body, including legs, arms, and the stomach. Just be sure to choose your products wisely. Since you’ll need more to cover these areas, it’s most cost efficient to seek out a product made specifically for the body, like editor-favorite Nécessaire The Body Retinol.
Does retinol help with dark spots?
Retinol is another ingredient that can lessen hyperpigmentation over time, says Dr. Nasarian, who recommends daily use for the best results. Just be sure to use a high-quality SPF, because retinol makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
Meet the dermatologists and testers
- Carmen Castilla, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
- Rachel Nazarian, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.
- Erum Ilyas, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
- Hadley King, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.
- Brie Schwartz is Glamour’s commerce director.
- Andrea Navarro is a commerce writer for Glamour.