Starting in your mid-20s, or before depending how much of a sun-worshiper you are, acne blemishes aren’t the only spots to battle. Brown spots can appear on the skin as the result of aging, sun damage, or a nutritional deficiency. With summer around the corner, there’s no better time to remind ourselves of the importance of lathering up with SPF-laden serums to prevent future damage. While there’s no way to non-invasively rid yourself completely of existing damage, there are some products to help battle minor discoloration. Here’s a look at some tried and true dark spot correctors .
Spot Corrector
Skyn Iceland
White Cloud Spot Corrector , $55
It only took about three weeks of twice-daily use for me to notice that a dark spot on the side of my face was fading with this cream. Formulated with natural lighteners like vitamins A and C, licorice, arctic berries, thyme, and tree bark extract, it absorbs quickly and is lightweight enough that you could spread it across more than just a small section if your damage is widespread.
Kiehls
Dermatologist Solutions Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solutions , $49.50
Formulated with Activated C, the latest generation vitamin C derivative available, the Kiehl’s formula is super lightweight and hydrating so, even if you’ve got sensitive skin, it can work as a year-round product to even out your complexion.
La Prairie
La Prairie White Caviar Spot Treatment , $150
An indulgent afternoon at The Ritz Carlton spa in New York City promises more than a luxury pampering treatment; it offers the opportunity to sample a variety of La Prairie products as the high-end line is the brand of choice at the award-winning oasis. This gel pen allows for an easy targeted approach so you don't waste one precious morsel of the formulation lightening an area of your skin that is healthy.
Dr. Weil for Origins
Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Bright Correcting Serum , $55
Dr. Oz and Oprah-approved Dr. Weil is pretty much a genius (one day I will make it to his zen resort ). With his line for Origins he has come up with a slew of solution-driven products including this one, which helps fade scars and discoloration via a Chinese ingredient, chestnut rose extract, and a variety of other anti-inflammatory ingredients (also great for fading acne) like jasmine, tuberose, and violet essential oils.
Philosophy
Philosophy Miracle Worker Dark Spot Correcting System , $80
Aptly named, this kit contains three of Philosophy's best-selling products: Miracle Worker Dark Spot Corrector, Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid Solution, and 30 Pads Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid Treatment, which work together to fight discoloration and other signs of aging.
Clarins
On-the-Spot Brightening Corrector , $35
Naturally we'd turn to a brand that has revolutionized sun care for a problem like dark spots. This concentrated correcting serum uses sea lily and alchemilla extract to minimize dark spots and help brighten the skin.
Josie Maran
Argan Brightening Bronzer Sun Spot Corrector , $32
While this argan oil and vitamin C-infused powder may not help permanently reverse brown spots, it will work double-duty to cover up and brighten skin for a more even complexion.