10 Best Dark Spot Correctors 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Dark spot correctors help eliminate hyperpigmentation and can prevent dark spots from forming by inhibiting the transfer of melanin to skin cells, says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. But it all depends on the ingredients that help you get there.

Dermatologists advise looking for alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs (such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid), retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Dr. Engelman also recommends kojic acid, derived from fermented rice, for new dark spots and acne scars.

According to Hope Mitchell, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology, tranexamic acid, cysteamine, azelaic acid, soy, and arbutin are also options that work well for lightening dark spots. “These ingredients will inhibit melanin production and speed up skin cell turnover, which will help fade pigmentation over time,” she notes. There is another ingredient, hydroquinone, that can also be effective in lightening dark spots, but dermatologists recommend proceeding with caution. “This ingredient is not safe for people with darker skin, and in some cases it can actually exacerbate hyperpigmentation in people with darker skin,” says Dr. Engelman.