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My Skin Barrier–Friendly Routine for Dark Spots [THAT WORKS!!]
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items Hyperpigmentation has always been one of those skin concerns that takes time, patience, and the right products. ⭐️ After a lot of trial and error (and a few mistakes along the way), I put together this list of skincare that focuses on fading dark spots without irritating or drying out the skin.
Sections
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#1 - Retinols/ Retinoids - cell turnover to target dark spots/ fine lines and uneven skin tone
#2 - Vitamin C serums to fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots [+radiance]
#3 Azelaic acid serums - fades hyperpigmentation, calms redness and treats acne
#1 - Retinols/ Retinoids - cell turnover to target dark spots/ fine lines and uneven skin tone
This one from No.7 is the highest over the counter retinol available for purchase and is 1% pure retinol. Has a slow release encapsulated formula which HELPS REDUCE ANY IRRITATION from retinol use. Also has niacinamide and centella which add to the h...
No. 7 Pure Retinol 0.3% Night Concentrate 30ml
Great for beginners since it is a low percentage retinol. This is one of the retinol serums I’d actually recommend if you want the benefits of retinol without the irritation. It uses a micro-dose of retinol designed to help skin turnover more smoothl...
Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptide - Kiehl's Since 1851 | Sephora
Definitely a very affordable brand. I like this one a lot since it layers well under moisturizers and doesn't pill or feel heavy. If you’re working on hyperpigmentation or texture and want something you can actually stick with long‑term, this one hit...
Retinol Serum
Bit more on the pricier side. It is targeted more for intermediate retinol users, so if your goal is brighter, more even skin and you’re ready to introduce a more targeted retinol, this is a great step up without being scary. It has vitamin C as well...
CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment - Paula's Choice | Sephora
#2 - Vitamin C serums to fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots [+radiance]
Affordable Vit.C serum that works great for those with sensitive skin with 10% vitamin C. Texture can be off putting for some people tho and oxidizes fairly quickly [use within 2-3 months]. 8/10 from me.
CeraVe Vitamin C Serum 10% Pure, 30 mL
A vitamin C that is stabilized with glutathione. Loved the texture and dewy finish and is affordable as well. 9.5/10
Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum 1oz
Great for acne-prone skin. Has 12% ascorbic acid for brightening but can also exfoliate with the salicyclic acid content. 8/10.
L'Oréal Paris 12% Vitamin C Brightening Serum 30mL
This is one of the classic go‑to vitamin C serums you hear dermatologists rave about — and for good reason. It combines a stable form of vitamin C with vitamin E and ferulic acid, which not only helps fade dark spots and even skin tone but also boost...
SkinCeuticals - C E Ferulic - 30ml | STYLEVANA
For sensitive and acne-prone skin is Dr.Althea's gentle vit.c serum. Has 3-ethyl ascorbic acid as vitamin c which is really gentle on the skin than other clinical grade serums. Also packed with niacinamide and green tea extract to brighten and soothe...
Dr. Althea - Gentle Vitamin C Serum - 30ml | STYLEVANA
#3 Azelaic acid serums - fades hyperpigmentation, calms redness and treats acne
This is a really handy multi‑tasking skincare product if you’re working on hyperpigmentation, redness, and texture all at once. Azelaic acid helps calm irritated skin, fade post‑acne dark spots, and gently speed up cell turnover. Saves me quickly whe...
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% | Sephora
Great everyday serum. It combines a solid 10% azelaic acid to help fade dark spots and calm irritation, plus hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated and smooth — so it doesn’t feel tight or stripped. I like that it actually feels soothing and not ...
ANUA - Azelaic Acid 10% Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum | Save More with Stylevana | STYLEVANA
Affordable option to treat hyperpigmentation and lighten out skin tone. Combines azelaic acid with niacinamide which is an additional brightening ingredient. The texture is creamy and hydrating — not drying or tight — which makes it easy to use consi...
Naturium Azelaic Acid 10% Serum, 1oz