Retinoids for Dark Spots
Retinoids lighten PIH and sun-related dark spots through epidermal turnover.
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Retinoids lighten PIH and sun-related dark spots through epidermal turnover.
how to use it. Nightly. Pair with SPF and a tyrosinase inhibitor (niacinamide, arbutin, azelaic).
why it works. Accelerated desquamation removes surface pigment; tyrosinase modulation contributes at higher doses.
Reviewed with 2 sources on 2026-07-03.
Alpha Arbutin for Dark Spots
Alpha arbutin is a gentle OTC pigment inhibitor.
also about dark spotsAzelaic Acid for Dark Spots
Azelaic acid fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
also about dark spotsGlycolic Acid (AHA) for Dark Spots
Glycolic acid fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over months.
also about dark spotsHydroquinone for Dark Spots
Hydroquinone is the gold-standard hyperpigmentation treatment.
also about dark spotsKojic Acid for Dark Spots
Kojic acid fades pigmentation, often paired with arbutin or hydroquinone.
also about dark spotsL-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) for Dark Spots
L-ascorbic acid is one of the most evidence-supported topicals for hyperpigmentation.