Margarita Lolis, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Skin Laser & Surgery Specials of NY & NJ Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D., is a fan of Obagi's Medical Fx C-Clarifying Serum for treating her melasma, while Del Campo loves Murad's Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum. It combines 2% dioic acid with salicylic acid and glycolic acid. The dioic acid reduces sebum. The salicylic and glycolic acids help reduce breakouts, as well as post-acne marks, by brightening the skin and improving the skin’s texture. The most important thing you should know about the Alpha Dual Action Skin Lightener is that it is not a fade cream for those who suffer from sensitive skin. If you are someone who may be prone to irritation and redness, perhaps you should skip on this one and resort to a fade cream that is gentler. Look out for creams with proven active ingredients", says Dr Malvina. "Hydroquinone is a lightening agent that has the best evidence for treating hyperpigmentation. This is available on prescription as a combination cream with the vitamin A derivative tretinoin as well as a mild steroid called hydrocortisone."

What’s your goal? Are you looking to lighten a few sunspots that have popped up with age? In that case, a skin bleaching spot treatment will do. However, if you have more visible signs of discoloration due to excessive sun exposure or hormonal shifts, you’ll want to reach for an overall brightening and lightening cream. The hyperpigmentation that remains isn’t permanent, but it can be uncomfortable for some people. It can also present differently, depending on your complexion. Sifting through all the acne scar products available can get frustrating. There are slews to choose from. It’s a good idea to visit your dermatologist before you start a routine with your new OTC routine for acne scars. Using this product is relatively simple. You’ll apply the “step one” wipe to your face first, waiting for it to dry before applying the “step two” wipe. You’ll finish things off with a facial moisturizer. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology

Remember, no matter which type of cream or treatment option you choose, consistency is vital to achieving optimal results.

Although this lotion won’t lighten the tone of your skin by several shades, we still think it works wonders for brightening up the overall complexion and helping against pesky blemishes. AKA, pro-vitamin B3, niacinamide fights acne, balances oil, calms inflammation, boosts ceramides, fights free radicals, and (of course) lightens.The toner contains salicylic acid, which is known to help reduce breakouts and fade discoloration caused by breakouts. Performing a patch test using your acne scar product is a good idea. Apply a small amount of it to your inner wrist and watch for signs of irritation for 24 hours. You can test the product out on your face if no irritation pops up.

The use of a broad spectrum, oil-free sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat can help with these types of changes post-acne,” she says. Don’t over applySome people are more prone to dark spots and pigmentation than others. "Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation because they have more cells in the skin that make melanin," says Dr. Agbai. "Contrarily, people with lighter skin tones are more likely to develop solar lentigos [sun or age spots] by UV radiation from the sun." Zeichner recommends this product because of its effectiveness with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It’s gentle enough for any skin type and can be applied underneath a moisturizer. Hydroquinone is available over the counter and with a prescription. The latter typically has a higher percentage and may be formulated with a retinoid and a topical steroid, Dr. Chan notes. Her favorite drugstore option for mild hyperpigmentation is the affordable Ambi Skincare Fade Cream.

But that’s not the only impressive feature. A triple peptide blend supports the benefits of retinol while strengthening the skin. You’ll also find xanthophylls, potent carotenoids that exert a powerful defense against aging, environmental stressors, and blue (HEV) light emitted from electronics — that’s something most of us can get on board with. Skin Lightening Creams: The Bottom LineThis lightening set consists of 3 different products that do not contain any harsh chemicals or bleaching agents that could irritate the skin. Some of the natural ingredients included in the products are papaya, lemon, allantoin, and licorice. With all these combined into one system, you will get the most out of the exfoliating and lightening properties it provides. Although most superficial breakouts heal on their own without leaving a significant mark, there are others that leave a more noticeable scar behind.