Skin blemishes are one of the biggest skin-related issues out there, and it seems like almost everyone struggles with them. In fact, the problem is so widespread
that the issue alone has spurred a product boom in the skincare industry.

Unfortunately, there are dozens of skincare brands on the market that make false promises and fill products with potentially unhealthy and ineffective additives.1,2

This is why Smarter Reviews set out to pinpoint the ingredients that high-quality dark spot correctors use to support smooth, spotless, even-toned skin. The results were surprising, and we wanted to share what we learned so that you can make the best decision for your own personal skincare needs.

How exactly do dark spot correctors work?

Our skin is constantly adapting to new environments, and one of its most important roles is producing melanin. When we expose ourselves to the sun, our skin releases this pigment to protect itself from UV rays. It's a normal and healthy reaction to sun exposure, and generally the more melanin protecting us, the better. 

The usual outcome is a gorgeous, glowing tan, but sometimes this natural UV response can cause excess melanin production on key areas of our skin, which may result in the unwanted appearance of discoloration or dark spots. Unlike freckles, these melanin deposits are less likely to fade away on their own.

This is where spot correctors come in. High-quality correctors typically contain a combination of kojic dipalmitate, vitamin E and vitamin B3. These ingredients work together to maintain smoothness, promote hydration, and help brighten
your overall complexion to make your skin look youthful and flawless.

Ingredients to look for / additives to avoid

  •  Vitamin E
  •  Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)
  •  Kojic Dipalmitate
  •  Glycerine
  • Sulfates 
  • Artificial colors and fragrances
  • Heavy mineral oils 
  • Hydroquinone 

  • The dangers of hydroquinone

    This popular ingredient is famous for its ability to quickly and effectively fade dark spots, but it  can actually be more harmful than helpful. In fact, hydroquinone is banned and illegal in every country except the U.S.

What to look for in a dark spot corrector

 Finding a skin brightener with the ingredients listed above is important, but there are some other factors we recommend considering as you shop:  

Transparent list of ingredients 

Many popular spot correctors on the market fail to list all of their ingredients on their labels. This means that you might be using a product with potentially harmful or unwanted chemicals. Look for a brand that isn’t afraid to list all of its active ingredients clearly on both its product label and its website. 

Quality moisturization 

Properly hydrated skin is key to a clear, even tone. Studies suggest that hydration helps maintain the skin’s barrier and promote regular melanin production. To get the best bang for your buck, look for a spot corrector that doesn’t just help brighten your complexion, but helps moisturizes skin, too.3

Money-back guarantee 

Americans spend millions of dollars every year for youthful skin, and they still find themselves unhappy with an apparent lack of results. It’s better—and safer—to invest in a product that offers a 100% money-back, no-questions-asked guarantee to show the company's faith in the potency of its product.

Exceptional reviews

It's essential to review customer feedback from multiple places. Try asking friends and family for their input, and then check reviews from online marketplaces. The best products usually have overwhelmingly positive reviews  on multiple platforms. 

Our unique ranking system

At Smarter Reviews, we employ a comprehensive evaluation system to analyze and measure the full value of products, by looking at the ingredients, safety, projected effectiveness, return policies, and overall customer satisfaction. This method is known as the Smarter Reviews Ranking System.

In addition to ranking products, we also collect research from the latest studies and clinical trials. Choosing the best product is easy with Smarter Reviews. We offer a clear-cut system that covers the most important criteria, and takes into account the experienced personal reviews of our valued Smarter Shoppers. We've taken the guesswork out of the process, so you can shop smart, and save on time and money.

The 5 Best Skin Correctors On The Market

Based on our own extensive research, the metrics provided by our Smarter Reviews Ranking System, and consideration of numerous reviews by Smarter Shoppers just like you, we've compiled a list of what we've found to be the top five products
to help promote the appearance of flawless, smooth, even-toned skin.