As a diligent sunscreen user, I was horrified when my first dark spot popped up. It came out of nowhere on my lower left cheek, and it was the only thing I saw staring back at me when I looked in the mirror\u2014for weeks. Was it getting darker, bigger? I worried. I knew it was the result of one of my handful of bad sunburns as a youth. I was a tween in the \u201990s, and aside from those fun, colorful zinc sticks, sunscreen wasn\u2019t standard procedure\u2014sunbathing was.<\/p>\n
\u201cDark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation or sunspots, don\u2019t show up overnight,\u201d says Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill. \u201cThey can begin forming deep in the skin years\u2014even decades\u2014before you ever see them on the surface. The sun exposure you had as a child or in your teens can absolutely show up in your 30s, 40s or even later. That\u2019s one of the most frustrating realities of sun damage, and the reason why sunscreen is so critical, even when you\u2019re young and don\u2019t see damage yet.\u201d Frustration aside, there are many ways to downplay the appearance of dark spots, and in some cases, eliminate them entirely.<\/p>\n
Featured Experts<\/h2>\n\n- Dr. Deborah Longwill is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami<\/li>\n
- Harold Lancer, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, CA<\/li>\n
- Linda C. Honet, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Bloomfield Hills, MI<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What Causes Dark Spots?<\/h2>\n
\u201cThe dark spot formation process starts to occur the moment we expose our skin to the sun,\u201d says Beverly Hills, CA dermatologist Harold Lancer, MD. \u201cUV exposure, especially in excess, causes melanocytes\u2014our pigment- producing cells\u2014to become overactive and produce excess melanin. These melanocytes can clump up over time, which eventually leads to dark, visible spots on the surface of the skin.\u201d<\/p>\n
Though sun exposure is the most common culprit, it isn\u2019t the only one. \u201cHormonal fluctuations, both endogenous and exogenous, can cause melasma,\u201d says Bloomfield Hills, MI dermatologist Linda C. Honet, MD. \u201cThese include pregnancy, menopause, oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, hormonal IUDs and hormone pellets. Some patients who consume an inordinate amount of soy can also experience melasma from soy\u2019s plant estrogens called phytoestrogens or isoflavones.\u201d<\/p>\n
Other causes of dark spots are side effects from certain medications, as well as skin trauma (cuts, scrapes, insect bites, shingles, etc.) that Dr. Honet says can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) as a response to healing. \u201cGenerally speaking, the darker the skin type, the more susceptible to PIH,\u201d she adds. And of course, as we age, Dr. Longwill points out that our skin\u2019s ability to repair and regenerate slows down, so existing pigment can linger for longer and become more noticeable.<\/p>\n
The Best Skin-Care Ingredients to Minimize Them<\/h2>\n
To promote a more even skin tone, look for products with key ingredients that help inhibit the overproduction of melanin in the skin, says Dr. Lancer. \u201cVitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids and alpha arbutin are good examples. It is also imperative that sunscreen be worn to further protect the skin and avoid more damage.\u201d Three of Dr. Honet\u2019s favorite ingredients for brightening up dark spots include tranexamic acid, kojic acid and azelaic acid. \u201cThese pigment reducers are not only safe to use daily for maintenance, but they are also well-tolerated by all skin types and are safe in pregnancy.\u201d<\/p>\n
Though it\u2019s controversial due to adverse side effects in some cases, hydroquinone is also a top pick for Dr. Honet. \u201cIts potency makes it a favorite of mine, but it should be carefully administered and monitored by a board-certified dermatologist because of its potential for causing ochronosis, a rare condition causing blue-gray or dark patches on the skin.\u201d<\/p>\n
In-Office Pigment Reducers<\/h2>\n
Often requiring a series of treatments, dark spot reduction by way of lasers, peels and more is a popular request in the office. The right one for your spots will depend on their cause, your skin type and the depth of the pigmentation, Dr. Longwill says, noting that she often recommends combining in-office treatments with topical products for a comprehensive approach. \u201cFor sun-induced pigment concerns, I recommend BroadBand Light [BBL] and Intense-Pulsed Light [IPL],\u201d she explains. \u201cFor deeper, more stubborn spots, I use lasers like Fraxel DUAL and Clear + Brilliant. These send different wavelengths of energy into the skin to break down excess melanin and, ultimately, fade dark spots to create a more even skin tone.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dr. Honet says another effective option is microneedling combined with tranexamic acid, or another brightening acid. \u201cI am a big fan of a multimodality approach to treating hyperpigmentation because of the additive effect and improved, symbiotic clinical efficacy of in-office treatments.\u201d Certain chemical peels can also brighten skin and promote cell turnover, and there are varying levels of intensity depending on the extent of the spots and sun damage being treated. \u201cThe best candidates for in-office dark spot treatments are patients with good sun protection habits who are not currently tanning or pregnant,\u201d adds Dr. Longwill. \u201cResults vary, but most patients see significant lightening of their spots after a few sessions.\u201d<\/p>\n
Can Dark Spots Come Back in the Same Place?<\/h2>\n
Unfortunately, yes. \u201cDark spots can come back in the same spot after an in-office treatment, and this is especially true if the skin is exposed to the sun again,\u201d says Dr. Lancer. \u201cOr, if there is an underlying hormonal trigger or inflammation that persists, like melasma.\u201d Dr. Honet explains that during laser and light-based treatments, the pigment cells are not destroyed completely, per se; they are only made devoid of their pigment marking them. \u201cThis is why fastidious sun protection is so important, as well as maintenance skin care,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n
Additionally, dark spots rarely ever go away on their own. Freckles, on the other hand, which are typically genetic and different than dark spots, tend to come and go. \u201cFreckles often darken with sun exposure and fade in the winter when UV exposure is lower,\u201d says Dr. Longwill.<\/p>\n
No matter the type of dark spot you\u2019re trying to tackle, all signs point to sun protection as the surefire method of defense and post-procedure maintenance. \u201cUsing sunscreen daily\u2014even on cloudy days\u2014wearing protective clothing in the sun and adhering to a solid skin-care routine are your best long-term tools to avoid dark spots,\u201d Dr. Longwill advises. \u201cDon\u2019t wait until spots show up to start treating your skin\u2014early care is key. Pigmentation is one of the most stubborn concerns we treat as dermatologists, but with the right plan, you can absolutely see results and feel confident in your skin.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tone Down<\/h2>\nDiminish dark spots fast with these three new brightening formulas.<\/h3>\n\n\n 1<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nA new innovation from Dr. Lancer\u2019s skin-care line, Lancer Gravity Dark Spot Correcting Serum marries exosomes, alpha arbutin and nonapeptide-1 to promote a more even complexion. In clinical studies, after just four weeks, participants saw significant improvement in dark spots, redness and skin texture.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n
![\"Lancer](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/lancer-dark-spots-375x375.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 2<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nTarget dark spots and wrinkles simultaneously with SHISEIDO\u2019s retinol- based Vital Perfection Intensive WrinkleSpot Treatment A+, which is clinically proven to visibly improve the appearance of both skin concerns in just one week. Hydrating hyaluronic acid and the brand\u2019s patented, firming SafflowerRED round out the efficacious formula.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n
![\"Shiseido](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/shiseido-dark-spot-375x375.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 3<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nThe latest addition to Scarlett Johansson\u2019s The Outset is this ultra-lightweight Total Clarity Dark Spot Serum that utilizes a gentle vitamin C alternative called Melaneven. It\u2019s clinically validated to significantly reduce the appearance ofdark spots and improve skin radiance over time, and, like all of the brand\u2019s products, it\u2019s sensitive-skin friendly.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/cdn-cjhgk.nitrocdn.com\/CXxGixRVyChwAxySbAyltuCiQXRKaWDN\/assets\/images\/optimized\/rev-9dad235\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-outset-dark-spots-375x375.jpg\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
What Causes Dark Spots?<\/h2>\n
\u201cThe dark spot formation process starts to occur the moment we expose our skin to the sun,\u201d says Beverly Hills, CA dermatologist Harold Lancer, MD. \u201cUV exposure, especially in excess, causes melanocytes\u2014our pigment- producing cells\u2014to become overactive and produce excess melanin. These melanocytes can clump up over time, which eventually leads to dark, visible spots on the surface of the skin.\u201d<\/p>\n
Though sun exposure is the most common culprit, it isn\u2019t the only one. \u201cHormonal fluctuations, both endogenous and exogenous, can cause melasma,\u201d says Bloomfield Hills, MI dermatologist Linda C. Honet, MD. \u201cThese include pregnancy, menopause, oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, hormonal IUDs and hormone pellets. Some patients who consume an inordinate amount of soy can also experience melasma from soy\u2019s plant estrogens called phytoestrogens or isoflavones.\u201d<\/p>\n
Other causes of dark spots are side effects from certain medications, as well as skin trauma (cuts, scrapes, insect bites, shingles, etc.) that Dr. Honet says can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) as a response to healing. \u201cGenerally speaking, the darker the skin type, the more susceptible to PIH,\u201d she adds. And of course, as we age, Dr. Longwill points out that our skin\u2019s ability to repair and regenerate slows down, so existing pigment can linger for longer and become more noticeable.<\/p>\n
The Best Skin-Care Ingredients to Minimize Them<\/h2>\n
To promote a more even skin tone, look for products with key ingredients that help inhibit the overproduction of melanin in the skin, says Dr. Lancer. \u201cVitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids and alpha arbutin are good examples. It is also imperative that sunscreen be worn to further protect the skin and avoid more damage.\u201d Three of Dr. Honet\u2019s favorite ingredients for brightening up dark spots include tranexamic acid, kojic acid and azelaic acid. \u201cThese pigment reducers are not only safe to use daily for maintenance, but they are also well-tolerated by all skin types and are safe in pregnancy.\u201d<\/p>\n
Though it\u2019s controversial due to adverse side effects in some cases, hydroquinone is also a top pick for Dr. Honet. \u201cIts potency makes it a favorite of mine, but it should be carefully administered and monitored by a board-certified dermatologist because of its potential for causing ochronosis, a rare condition causing blue-gray or dark patches on the skin.\u201d<\/p>\n
In-Office Pigment Reducers<\/h2>\n
Often requiring a series of treatments, dark spot reduction by way of lasers, peels and more is a popular request in the office. The right one for your spots will depend on their cause, your skin type and the depth of the pigmentation, Dr. Longwill says, noting that she often recommends combining in-office treatments with topical products for a comprehensive approach. \u201cFor sun-induced pigment concerns, I recommend BroadBand Light [BBL] and Intense-Pulsed Light [IPL],\u201d she explains. \u201cFor deeper, more stubborn spots, I use lasers like Fraxel DUAL and Clear + Brilliant. These send different wavelengths of energy into the skin to break down excess melanin and, ultimately, fade dark spots to create a more even skin tone.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dr. Honet says another effective option is microneedling combined with tranexamic acid, or another brightening acid. \u201cI am a big fan of a multimodality approach to treating hyperpigmentation because of the additive effect and improved, symbiotic clinical efficacy of in-office treatments.\u201d Certain chemical peels can also brighten skin and promote cell turnover, and there are varying levels of intensity depending on the extent of the spots and sun damage being treated. \u201cThe best candidates for in-office dark spot treatments are patients with good sun protection habits who are not currently tanning or pregnant,\u201d adds Dr. Longwill. \u201cResults vary, but most patients see significant lightening of their spots after a few sessions.\u201d<\/p>\n
Can Dark Spots Come Back in the Same Place?<\/h2>\n
Unfortunately, yes. \u201cDark spots can come back in the same spot after an in-office treatment, and this is especially true if the skin is exposed to the sun again,\u201d says Dr. Lancer. \u201cOr, if there is an underlying hormonal trigger or inflammation that persists, like melasma.\u201d Dr. Honet explains that during laser and light-based treatments, the pigment cells are not destroyed completely, per se; they are only made devoid of their pigment marking them. \u201cThis is why fastidious sun protection is so important, as well as maintenance skin care,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n
Additionally, dark spots rarely ever go away on their own. Freckles, on the other hand, which are typically genetic and different than dark spots, tend to come and go. \u201cFreckles often darken with sun exposure and fade in the winter when UV exposure is lower,\u201d says Dr. Longwill.<\/p>\n
No matter the type of dark spot you\u2019re trying to tackle, all signs point to sun protection as the surefire method of defense and post-procedure maintenance. \u201cUsing sunscreen daily\u2014even on cloudy days\u2014wearing protective clothing in the sun and adhering to a solid skin-care routine are your best long-term tools to avoid dark spots,\u201d Dr. Longwill advises. \u201cDon\u2019t wait until spots show up to start treating your skin\u2014early care is key. Pigmentation is one of the most stubborn concerns we treat as dermatologists, but with the right plan, you can absolutely see results and feel confident in your skin.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tone Down<\/h2>\nDiminish dark spots fast with these three new brightening formulas.<\/h3>\n\n\n 1<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nA new innovation from Dr. Lancer\u2019s skin-care line, Lancer Gravity Dark Spot Correcting Serum marries exosomes, alpha arbutin and nonapeptide-1 to promote a more even complexion. In clinical studies, after just four weeks, participants saw significant improvement in dark spots, redness and skin texture.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 2<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nTarget dark spots and wrinkles simultaneously with SHISEIDO\u2019s retinol- based Vital Perfection Intensive WrinkleSpot Treatment A+, which is clinically proven to visibly improve the appearance of both skin concerns in just one week. Hydrating hyaluronic acid and the brand\u2019s patented, firming SafflowerRED round out the efficacious formula.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n 3<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\nThe latest addition to Scarlett Johansson\u2019s The Outset is this ultra-lightweight Total Clarity Dark Spot Serum that utilizes a gentle vitamin C alternative called Melaneven. It\u2019s clinically validated to significantly reduce the appearance ofdark spots and improve skin radiance over time, and, like all of the brand\u2019s products, it\u2019s sensitive-skin friendly.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n
<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
1<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n A new innovation from Dr. Lancer\u2019s skin-care line, Lancer Gravity Dark Spot Correcting Serum marries exosomes, alpha arbutin and nonapeptide-1 to promote a more even complexion. In clinical studies, after just four weeks, participants saw significant improvement in dark spots, redness and skin texture.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 2<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n Target dark spots and wrinkles simultaneously with SHISEIDO\u2019s retinol- based Vital Perfection Intensive WrinkleSpot Treatment A+, which is clinically proven to visibly improve the appearance of both skin concerns in just one week. Hydrating hyaluronic acid and the brand\u2019s patented, firming SafflowerRED round out the efficacious formula.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n 3<\/span> \/ 3<\/span> <\/p>\n The latest addition to Scarlett Johansson\u2019s The Outset is this ultra-lightweight Total Clarity Dark Spot Serum that utilizes a gentle vitamin C alternative called Melaneven. It\u2019s clinically validated to significantly reduce the appearance ofdark spots and improve skin radiance over time, and, like all of the brand\u2019s products, it\u2019s sensitive-skin friendly.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div>\n <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n