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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
