The EELHOE™ Melanin Correcting Facial Serum targets the skin's excessive melanin synthesis, which results in hyperpigmentation and dark patches. The Night Oil contains a gentle form of retinol that helps reduce dark marks and promotes cellular turnover, and is delivered in a nourishing oil formula that’s ideal for sensitive melanin-rich skin. Editor Tip: Ava Shamban, MD, a Beverly Hills-based board-certified dermatologist, previously explained to Allure that azelaic acid loosens dead, pore-clogging skin cells and reduces instances of inflammation caused by acne. But when these acids are overused, cautions Naana Boakye, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, they can cause irritation that can lead to hyperpigmentation, a concern especially for darker skin. Why It's Worth It: Melé's products are made with darker skin tones in mind and the brand's Even Dark Spot Control Serum takes special care to thoughtfully address discoloration in melanin-rich complexions.

Another great one is the Best of Beauty-winning The Inkey List Retinol Serum, which has a squalane-infused formula that won't irritate the skin or break the bank. It won an Allure Best of Beauty award for a reason — it relies heavily on growth factors, which are stellar at building elastin, a protein our skin produces that decreases as we age. However, generally speaking, when it comes to sensitive skin, higher percentages of vitamin C can be more irritating," says Dr. Once upon a time, I washed my face with Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Wash, swiped on witch hazel, and occasionally slathered on some Pond's moisturizer.Why It's Worth It: In addition to kojic acid and niacinamide, the dermatologist-celebrated SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense contains tranexamic acid. Ahead, we have all of the insight from dermatologists about hyperpigmentation, plus 19 hardworking serums and solutions they recommend to help you fade dark spots — no in-office treatment required.

The hue of this serum can range from light amber to dark brown due to the natural elements in its mix. And while sunscreen is the best, pairing it with this Clinique serum will only make your results better. All you need is a small dollop of this lightweight mask as the last step of your skin-care routine (e. Why It's Worth It: True to its name, the star ingredient in Glow Recipe's Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops is, drumroll, please, niacinamide. Let this be your sign that you have nothing to fear, now that you're equipped with the knowledge to bolster your skin-care routine.

Though acid may sound harsh, this class of ingredients — alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs — can be a "great option for exfoliating, reducing oil production, and improving [skin's] texture," according to Ope Ofodile, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Marietta, Georgia. Editor Tip: This pick is also formulated sea buckthorn berry, which works in tandem with niacinamide to soothe the skin.