9 Dark Spot Correctors That Can Help
Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiant Serum Complexion Correcting, £46
Sold every 30 seconds around the world, Caudalie’s cult serum can help regulate melanin production and brighten dark patches. Thanks to the patented Viniferine ingredient (which is said to be 62 times more effective than vitamin C), skin tone and smoothness should improve over time – in fact, 94% of testers found their dark spots were more refined post-use. It's also earnt itself the title of number one anti-dark spot solution in French pharmacies.
Avaiable at Caudalie.co.uk
Revolution Dark Spot Corrector, £9.95
For those on a budget, look to Revolution, whose dark spot corrector is designed to be use pre-moisturiser and post-cleanse. The thin, lightweight serum uses vitamin C to lighten dark spots, but also reduce the appearance of post-acne pigmentation. You only need a very small amount to notice a different – while extra points go to the vegan, cruelty-free and fragrance-free formula.
Available at BeautyBay.com
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads, £19
The gentlest peel pads we’ve ever tried – these bring cell renewal up to speed with a combination of lactic and mandelic acid. Not only do they lend an even-looking glow, they reduce the appearance of scarring, shrink pores, and of course, lighten dark spots over time, too. Use them two to three times a week for the best results.
Available at CultBeauty.co.uk
Drunk Elephant C Firma Day Serum, £67
Dubbed as boot camp for the skin, this vitamin C serum firms and brightens the complexion over time with a sheer texture that sits well underneath other products. The formula also contains vitamin E, ferulic acid and skin-supporting antioxidants, all of which help to neutralise damaging pollutants, environmental stressors and free radicals, reducing the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles.
Available at CultBeauty.co.uk
RoC Multi Correxion 5-In-1 Daily Moisturiser, £29.64
This moisturiser comes up trumps thanks to its impressive performance across several clinical tests. Designed to be used after cleansing, it targets dark spots (testers found they were smoother after four weeks) while softening and plumping the skin at the same time. Plus, the added SPF 30 never feels clogging.
Available at Amazon.co.uk
Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum, £75
Containing brightening plankton extract, this serum works to prevent future dark spots, as well as reducing the visibility of existing ones. The addition of niacinamide works to gently exfoliate and increase cell turnover, too for a smoother and more refined complexion. It's especially good for mature skin types, as well as those looking for more moisture.
Available at Murad.co.uk
RE: Pigment, £28
NIOD are known for their effective formulas, and this lightweight serum combines skin-plumping peptides and ingredients found in Chinese medicine to reduce the appearance of sun damage. Both experts and testers say you could see a difference within a week – especially on scarring from spots. Don’t be alarmed by the initial oily texture, it penetrates the skin fast with zero tacky residue left over.
Available at CultBeauty.co.uk
SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic, £112
There’s a reason this product makes its way into every round-up – it's a go-to for dermatologists and skincare experts looking to protect against free-radical damage, as well as enjoy the brightening benefits. The difference is a very stable formulation, which experts say is important, as vitamin C is easily degraded by light and heat. Try wearing it underneath your daily sunscreen for the best results.
Available at Skinceuticals.co.uk
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, £4.67
Vitamin C and retinol are great for diffusing dark spots, but those who are pregnant or sensitive shouldn't use formulas containing these ingredients. Cue this skin-saver from The Ordinary, which uses Azelaic Acid (an antioxidant) to brighten and halt pigment production – a great stand-in option for those who can’t use traditional acids, plus, it’s affordable, too. Apply post-cleanse morning and evening.
Available at Boots.com
Keen to try laser instead? SL recommends these five places…
- The Light Salon at Harvey Nichols, visit thelight-salon.com
- Debbie Thomas Chelsea Private Clinic, visit dthomas.com
- Skin Laundry at Liberty, visit skinlaundry.com
- The London Clinic, visit thelondonclinic.co.uk
- EF MediSpa, visit efmedispa.com
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.