For about 10 years I suffered from acne. Now I rarely break out, but I have developed post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or dark spots on my face. It's the bane of my existence. So even when I no longer need to hide my acne, I still apply full-coverage foundation (opens in new tab) to hide the little red and brown spots. Of course, even people who do not suffer from acne have hyperpigmentation. They usually take the form of sunspots, dark spots, or age spots, and are brought on by the usual suspects-sun damage, hormones, or aging.

When there is inflammation, the first or second layer of skin cells produces extra pigment during the healing process. Trying to lighten these dark spots is time-consuming, tedious, and annoying. I have used many products to try to get rid of the spots, including drugstore whitening creams, hard-core spot treatments, and prescription medications. In short, I know a little bit about what works and what doesn't. Additionally, I spoke with a slew of dermatologists for their expertise. Keep scrolling for the run-down on how to treat pigmentation in the best way, including your best options, from mild cases to severe ones.

The easiest way to avoid pigmentation problems' keep them at bay with sun protection. If you already have spots, use sunscreen to prevent them from darkening. Says New Jersey-based dermatologist Jeanine Downey, M.D., director of Image Dermatology, "If you're not using sunscreen every day of the year, you're wasting time that could be spent on other products."

Use a daily serum rich in antioxidants to help brighten the overall skin appearance, including those pesky marks." Antioxidant serums help stabilize skin after UV or IR damage," says San Diego-based dermatologist Melanie Palm, MD, director of Art OF Skin MD (opens in new tab). 'I try to apply this to my patients every morning. Also great: vitamin C (opens in new tab), which helps fight fine lines and smooth out texture.

Cleansers that contain beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid (open in new tab) and alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid (open in new tab) and lactic acid (open in new tab) are generally marketed to teens and acne sufferers (perfect if your discoloration comes from acne perfect if your discoloration comes from acne). But they can also help other skin types by gently exfoliating the surface (open with a new tab) and unclogging pores (open with a new tab) that may be causing your unwanted acne. So unless you have really dry (opens in new tab) and sensitive skin (opens in new tab), consider using a cleanser with either or both to help fade marks.

Target spots more effectively with concentrated doses. There are many brightening ingredients to look for, but some of the more effective ones on the market right now are Peony and Ganoderma root extracts, kojic acid (open in new tab), vitamins C and E, niacinamide (open in new tab), and alpha arbutin.

There are many options on the market for acne patches that will unclog your pores and fade your marks over time. In particular, the nightly patchology nightly patch hides a pretty cool technique: basically, you stick a circular patch over the dark spots. Microcurrents help reduce discoloration via retinol, peptides, and niacinamide, all of which are fused into a fabric sticker.

If spot treatments and vitamin C are not enough, opt for a concentrated formula. The most stimulating brightening serum I have used for pigmentation: SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Correcting Serum (opens in new tab), which contains four hero ingredients - tranexamic acid, phenylethylresorcinol, niacinamide, and tetrapeptide-30- that work together for powerful correction and are safe for all skin types and tones. Says Downey, "It's a global product, so it evens out the entire face, not just dark spots."

Retinol (open in new tab) is a versatile ingredient that also helps with pigmentation. Says Palm, "Not only does it speed up cell turnover, it penetrates deep into the skin and interferes with pigmentation."

As we mentioned, antioxidants like vitamin C help protect the skin from harmful aging free radicals. But while you're lifting blemishes and toning up your complexion, it's important to maintain a moisturizing barrier. Face oils (open in new tab), lotions, and creams (open in new tab) can give your skin a brightening kick while moisturizing and well-being.

Before we get into in-office procedures, the last step in the line of products that can treat pigmentation is prescription hydroquinone. This reduces the production of melanin in the skin. h

However, this hardcore topical product has some side effects - increased exposure to UV light, sensitivity to sunlight, and irritation - so it is best to proceed with caution and protect the skin especially during use. If you don't want to bother with a prescription, Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum (opens in new tab) is a great OTC (and milder) option.

As long as the microdermabrasion (open in new tab) is gentle enough - not too irritating is important, Palm says - this is a great option for buffing off the top layer of skin and revealing a new (and less pigmented) layer underneath It is.

Salicylic acid peels are another in-office procedure that can greatly speed up treatment and is ideal for acne sufferers. Salicylic acid is typically applied in the 20-30% range. Says Palm, "It has the ability to penetrate to the oil glands, but it can also lift spots left by inflammation." She recommends getting it once a month. If you don't want to go out for treatments, there are great peels (open in new tab) that you can do at home.

When pigmentation occurs in the second layer of skin, it acts almost like a tattoo. This is why dermatologists turned to the Q-switched laser, which was originally used to remove tattoos.

"It uses low heat and energy, so it doesn't exacerbate pigmentation or inflammation," Palm says. Because of its long wavelength, it is safe for people of all skin tones."