The Best Skincare Products To Treat Hyperpigmentation

Whether it’s the result of too much sun, a pesky mark from a past breakout or melasma caused by hormonal changes, getting rid of hyperpigmentation is notoriously tricky. Your best bet to help fade dark spots at home? Brightening ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide and exfoliating acids. Here are a few editor-approved skincare products to help treat stubborn hyperpigmentation. 

Garnier SkinActive All-in-1 Micellar Gentle Peeling Water, $7

This no-rinse micellar water contains glycolic acid and one-percent polyhydroxy acid to cleanse and exfoliate at the same time. It's gentle enough for daily use and it's the perfect all-in-one skincare staple to streamline your routine.

CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum, $30

A gentle vitamin C serum you can use daily is a must-have when dealing with unwanted pigmentation. This one also features hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate and prevent irritation, while delivering 10 percent pure vitamin C. Though it's affordable, it delivers the same results as much pricier options.

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum, $59

This serum is the first to feature Melasyl, a patented molecule that targets dark spots on all skin tones and prevents new ones from forming. It's paired with niacinamide to work on brightening and evening out skin tone.

Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Peel, $115

Touted as a professional chemical peel in a bottle, this blend of alpha-hydroxy acid, polyhydroxy acid, mandelic acid and niacinamide delivers in-office results at home.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Instant Brightening Moisturizer, $88

Niacinamide is the star brightening ingredient in this luxe moisturizer. It's also packed with light-reflective pearl particles for an instant glow.

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum, $88

Squalane, Biossance's signature ingredient, is paired with a 10 percent concentration of vitamin C and white shiitake mushroom extract in this serum that's suitable for daytime use. The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect to wear under makeup.

Vichy Liftactiv B3 Tone Correcting Night Cream, $63

A blend of retinol and niacinamide targets hyperpigmentation, as well as signs of aging. The formula is fragrance-free and contains a low dose of retinol, so it’s suitable for sensitive skin. 

Nivea Luminous630 Dark Spot Solution Advanced Serum, $41

Ten years of research went into identifying the dark spot-busting molecule in this serum. It's paired with hyaluronic acid for hydration and results can be seen in as little to two weeks. Want to level up your hyperpigmentation-fighting routine? The line also features a moisturizer and an eye cream. 

Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum, $52

A one-stop shop for clearer and smoother skin, this cream-like serum is packed with niacinamide, as well as azelaic, kojic and tranexamic acids. The addition of anti-inflammatory cica helps nourish and soothe.

Peace Out Dark Spot Microneedling Dots, $38

Formulated with niacinamide, tranexamic acid and ferulic acid to treat post-acne hyperpigmentation, these tiny adhesive dots have hundreds of dissolving microneedles to help ingredients penetrate deep into the skin. 

L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Serum, $28

With 12 percent niacinamide to target hyperpigmentation and ferulic and amino sulfonic acids to exfoliate and brighten, this serum helps fade sun damage and post-acne marks.