The small dots of hyperpigmentation on your skin may look harmless and even a common skin condition, but they prevent you from achieving a flawless-looking complexion. Plus, it can be difficult to minimize the appearance of dark spots. Fret not, as there are products formulated to combat this skin concern. Feeling intrigued? Keep reading as Beauty Insider has rounded the best dark spot correctors for flawless and radiant-looking complexion.

What are Dark Spots?

what are dark spots

Darks spots or commonly known as hyperpigmentation are the result of excessive sun exposure, artificial UV light, acne scars, and hormonal changes. Although people of all ages are susceptible to them, it usually occurs in middle age.

What are the Ingredients to Look for in Dark Spot Corrector?

There are countless dark spot correctors on the market that claim they are effective in minimising dark spots. But how do we know that it truly works and is not a marketing gimmick? Well, it all comes down to the ingredients. We have listed the essential ingredients that you need to look for in dark spot correctors.

  • Vitamin C
  • Retinol
  • Azelaic acid
  • pomegranate extract
  • Licorice extract
  • Beta carotene

How to Prevent Dark Spots?

prevent dark spots

Well, it’s undeniable that prevention is better than cure, especially when it comes to dark spots. It is imperative that you protect your skin from sun damage, hence investing in a good sunscreen is definitely a bonus to keep dark spots at bay. Primarily, look for a sunscreen that contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as they are effective in blocking harmful sun rays.

Top 25 Dark Spot Correctors in Malaysia

1. Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter

Unlock your skin’s true potential with the cult-favourite Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter. Its high-performance formula is enriched with brightening properties that effectively target stubborn dark spots and discoloration, unveiling a luminous, flawless complexion. Powered by the patented CL302 Equaliser Technology, it is meticulously crafted with a proprietary blend that not only evens out skin tone, but also inhibits the formation of new dark spots while reducing the appearance of blemish marks, age spots, and existing dark spots.

What sets this formula apart is its ability to penetrate deeply through 21 layers of the skin’s surface, ensuring precise and targeted application. Simply incorporate it into your daily skincare routine, applying it twice a day, both in the morning and at night, before your moisturiser.

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Targets dark spots and discolouration
  • Free from oil, denatured alcohol, SLS, SLES, and sulphates

Cons:

  • At the high-end price range

Price: RM298 (30ml) and RM392 (50ml)

Where to buy: Available in-store at flagship stores and Sephora, as well as online at Clinique’s official website, LazMall, and Sephora

2. AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum

Tired of visible signs of dark spots and uneven skin tone? Count on the AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum to dispel these concerns. Harnessing the power of 5% niacinamide, it works wonders in correcting dark spots while enhancing skin tone and texture. This potent product also features plant-derived squalane to lock in moisture for a radiant glow. Among its other key ingredients are brightening and hydrating powerhouses such as sea buckthorn, papaya, rice bran, allantoin, and calendula extract. Thanks to its gel-like texture, it boasts a fast-absorbing formula that effortlessly penetrates the skin. 

Users have reported incredible transformations, noting a significant 13.36 reduction in the appearance of melasma, freckles, and blemishes within just three days. After two weeks of consistent use, this improvement surged to an impressive 21.63%. Based on clinical studies involving 20 subjects, a staggering 100% reported that the AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum delivers a noticeable brightening effect. Furthermore, 100% agreed that it is highly effective in enhancing skin radiance and seamlessly absorbs into the skin, providing ample moisture. 

Why we love it:

  • Minimises the appearance of hyperpigmentation and acne scars 
  • Ideal for all skin, types including acne-prone and sensitive
  • Vegan

Cons:

  • You need to massage into the skin to ensure optimal absorption

Price: RM65.00

Where to buy: AXIS-Y Official Shopee, AXIS-Y Watsons , AXIS-Y Malaysia Official TikTok

3. Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum

Some By Mi-dark-spot-corrector

On top of the list is the cult favourite serum, Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum. Infused with tree tea water and Centella Asiatica extract to prevent acne as well as soothe the skin. Besides that, it contains AHA, BHA, and PHA which effectively exfoliate the skin, revealing a flawless and radiant complexion.

Why we love it:

  • Prevent acne
  • Brightens the skin
  • Soothing and moisturizing

Cons:

  • It has a slightly watery texture

Price: RM109.00

Where to buy: Watsons

4. INNISFREE Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum

Are you troubled by pesky dark spots? Worry not, as the INNISFREE Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum has garnered a cult following for its top-notch formulation that offers visible results. This product has also won Beauty Insider Malaysia’s Beauty and Wellness Awards 2024 for Best Dark Spot Treatment and Best Trending Award 2024. We tried this serum and were blown away by the results: our complexion showed improvements with minimised pigmentation, smoother skin texture, and enhanced radiance. We also loved how it features the dual power of brightening and refining properties, thanks to the combination of vitamin C derivatives and Jeju Green Tea Enzyme.

Why we love it:

  • Lightweight texture
  • Brightens a dull complexion
  • Low-irritation formula

Cons:

  • It has a slightly sticky texture

Price: RM168.00

Where to buy: INNISFREE’s official website

5. Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

This award-winning vitamin C serum by Mad Hippie is definitely one of the internet’s favourites for clearing pigmentation and spots! Its vegan formula features a stabilised Vitamin C paired with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E to help improve the complexion from within to bring out the skin’s glow. It also helps fight against environmental factors and slows down the ageing of the skin.

Why we love it:

  • Packed with natural antioxidants
  • Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
  • Comes in a recyclable packaging

Cons:

  • It’s difficult to find it online

Price: RM143.00

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6. Neostrata Enlighten Dark Spot Corrector

For stubborn spots that need extra care, Neostrata’s Enlighten Dark Spot Corrector will banish scars and pigmentations left by acne or sun damage. Enriched with Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Turmeric, Retinol and NeoGlucosamine® to evenly tone the skin.

Why we love it:

  • High strength formula
  • Prevents formation of spots
  • Smoothens and clear skin

Cons:

  • It is only available in one size

Price: RM129.00

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7. Kayman Beauty Rosa Glow Treatment Essence

Kayman Beauty’s Rosa Glow Treatment Essence won the Beauty Insider Malaysia’s Beauty and Wellness Awards 2024 for Best Anti-Pigmentation and Beauty Insider’s Choice. This essence is formulated with only eight ingredients for a powerful performance with a minimalist approach. Featuring 2% alpha arbutin, it effectively reduces hyperpigmentation, including acne scars and dark spots, while promoting an even skin tone. Combined with rose water, it enhances brightness and combats dullness for a youthful, radiant glow. It also has a “botox-like” effect, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and signs of premature aging.

Why we love it:

  • Reduces dark spots for an even skin tone
  • Fights dull skin
  • Provides a radiant complexion
  • Prevents and addresses signs of premature aging

Cons:

  • Comes in a spray bottle

Price: RM89.00

Where to buy: Kayman Beauty

8. NUViT Dermal White Brightening Spot Corrector

If you like a brighter, more even complexion at the last step of your day skincare routine, then try the NUViT Dermal White Brightening Spot Corrector! This day cream doubles as a tone up cream to naturally illuminate the skin. Once spread evenly, it instantly brightens and moisturises the face without being too sticky or heavy on the skin. It’s powered with Alpaflor GigaWhite, which contains a one-of-a-kind blend of seven precious Swiss alpine botanical extracts to repair, brighten, and boost the skin from within. With continuous use while layered under sunscreen, it can help lighten the skin and greatly reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. 

Why we love it:

  • Light texture that doesn’t cake up when layered with other skincare products or blended with makeup
  • Soothes and strengthens skin barrier
  • Natural finish 

Cons:

  • It needs to be massaged to ensure absorption

Price: RM 78.00

Where to buy: Watsons NUViT Partnered Pharmacies

9. Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum

All hail Murad’s Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum which was crowned the Beauty Insider Malaysia’s Beauty and Wellness Awards 2024 for Best Anti-Pigmentation and Reader’s Choice. This intensive serum rapidly reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation by promoting surface cell turnover for brighter, more even skin. It visibly diminishes dark spots and uneven tone while soothing and brightening the skin. This serum also contains glycolic acid which exfoliates and improves skin texture. None of your current dark spots are safe with this magic in a bottle, nor are any future ones.

Why we love it:

  • Rapidly reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation for brighter, more even skin
  • Visibly diminishes dark spots and uneven tone
  • Soothes, brightens, and exfoliates the skin

Cons:

  • Higher price point

Price: RM448.00

Where to buy: Murad

10. Safi Perfect White Illuminating Day Cream SPF20PA++

If you’re looking for the best skincare products to combat dark spots, nothing can beat the Safi Perfect White Illuminating Day Cream SPF20PA++. It harnesses the power of Ultra White Technology, a concoction of active ingredients like Nano BioWhite and Kakadu plum to brighten the skin tone. Nano Biowhite helps to minimise the appearance of dark spots and evens out the skin tone. Whereas Kakadu plum contains 100 times more vitamin C compared to orange, making it highly effective to enhance skin luminosity. This highly-rated moisturiser also features SPF20 to protect the skin against harmful UVA and UVB.

Why we love it:

  • Fast absorbing formula
  • Features SPF20
  • Prevents the formation of dark spots

Cons:

  • The SPF level is only 20

Price: RM24.15

Where to buy: Guardian

11. Safi Youth Gold Lifting Day Cream SPF25PA++

Say hi to the skin of your dreams with Safi Youth Gold Lifting Day Cream SPF25PA++. This daily moisturiser features a rich yet lightweight texture that easily absorbs into the skin, leaving you looking supple-looking skin. It is created with the innovative Golden C-Lift Technology which is an infusion of Golden C and Nano Gold 24K to combat signs of ageing for a more youthful and firmer appearance. Golden C is an antioxidant-rich ingredient that shields the skin from environmental aggressors and accelerates cellular regeneration. Nano Gold 24K is added to the formulation for its ability to boost skin elasticity. Plus, it also contains red algae to fight against infrared (IR) rays and DNA damage, ensuring your skin looks glowing and flawless.

Why we love it:

  • Reverse the signs of ageing
  • Protects the skin from environmental aggressors
  • Non-greasy formula
  • Promotes healthy-looking skin

Cons:

  • You need to massage into the skin

Price: RM31.70

Where to buy: Guardian

12. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension

The Ordinary-dark-spot-corrector

With its multipurpose brightening formula, The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension minimizes the appearance of dark spots on the skin. Enriched with a 10% concentration of Azelaic Acid, this vegan face serum evens the skin tone and treats acne. Furthermore, it has a lightweight texture that quickly absorbs on the skin when applied.

Why we love it:

  • Alcohol and oil-free
  • Multipurpose brightening formula
  • Lightweight consistency

Cons:

  • Some reported that it has a consistency akin to a silicone-like texture

Price: RM59.50

Where to buy: Lookfantastic

13. ONE THING Citrus Unshiu Fruit Extract Toner 150ml

This hydrating toner is must-have for those with dry and dull skin types. Formulated with Jeju Citrus Unshiu extract, Vitamin C, flavonoids, and carotenoids, it aids in brightening up the skin while fading hyperpigmentation. It also provides skin relief from irritation and deep hydration.

Why we love it:

  • Doubles as a soothing and brightening mask
  • Has whitening effects
  • Gives skin a dewy glow

Cons:

  • The packaging is not travel-friendly

Price: RM68.00

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14. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Kiehl’s-dark-spot-corrector

Formulated with Activated C, Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution diminishes the appearance of dark spots, meanwhile, peony extract functions synergistically with Activated C to combat skin discolouration. Besides, it hydrates the deepest layers of your skin with the white birch extract. Within two weeks, you will notice that the dark spots are reduced significantly and your skin is more luminous.

Why we love it:

  • Free from silicones, parabens, fragrances, and colourants
  • Formulated specifically to combat dark spots
  • Fast and visible results

Cons:

  • Quite pricey

Price: RM280.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s online store

15. Face Republic Vita Capsule Luminous Serum

This concentrated Vita Capsule Luminous serum by Face Republic is made to revitalise the skin while moisturizing the skin. Its mild care formula is perfect for those who are looking to start incorporating Vitamin C into their routine.

Why we love it:

  • Free from silicons, parabens, sulfate, & fragrances
  • Hypoallergenic formula
  • Brightens dull skin

Cons:

  • You need to pat into the skin for optimal absorption

Price: RM79.90

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16. Cosrx Mela 14 White Ampule

Cosrx -dark-spot-corrector

Known as the leading K-beauty brand, Cosrx has impressed us with its effective and affordable products. Among the product that is highly sought after is the Cosrx Mela 14 White Ampule. Enriched with AHA and BHA components, it visibly decreases dark spots and moisturizes the skin. Moreover, it features apple water extract to help brighten the skin, leaving your skin radiant and dewy.

Why we love it:

  • Artificial colourants and fragrances-free
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Radiant complexion

Cons:

  • It’s difficult to find online for purchase

Price: RM71.99

Where to buy: Shopee

17. Make P:rem Poncirus Trifoliata C Dark Spot Serum

For those with extremely damaged and spotty skin, let this intensive serum by Make P:rem do the trick. Formulated with 66% of Poncirus trifoliate extract, vitamin C derivative, and niacinamide to reveal a brighter and livelier complexion.

Why we love it:

  • Treats  dark spots, freckles, blemishes, and uneven skin tone
  • Plumps and hydrates the skin
  • Natural ingredients that contain no fragrance

Cons:

  • It only comes in one size of packaging

Price: RM128.00

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18. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum

Drunk Elephant-dark-spot-corrector

With 4.5 star ratings on Sephora, Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum is one of the best dark spot correctors. It contains the essential ingredients to minimize dark spots such as AHA and BHA. On top of that, white tea, bearberry, and horse chestnut effectively soothe the skin, reverse the signs of ageing and regulate sebum production. Wake up to radiant and smoother-looking skin with the Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum. Although it’s pricy than other dark spot correctors, it’s highly raved about by skin junkies due to the visible results.

Why we love it:

  • Essential oils, alcohol, silicones, chemical screens, fragrance, dyes, and SLS-free
  • Soothing and calming
  • Minimizes pores

Cons:

  • Quite pricey

Price: RM650.00

Where to buy: Sephora

19. Garden of EDEN ROSA E Pigmentation Serum

Specifically made to target pigmentations, this serum will help lighten dark spots and pigmentation to brighten up the whole complexion. It also promotes the renewal of skin cells while repairing them. Packed with antioxidants such as vitamin E & grape seed oil to also deflect harmful free radicals and skin-damaging elements on the skin.

Why we love it:

  • Also has anti-ageing effects
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Nourishing and moisturising

Cons:

  • The size of packaging is small

Price: RM41.50 – RM81.60

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20. Garnier Skin Naturals Dark Spot Corrector

Garnier-dark-spot-corrector

If you’re looking for affordable dark spot correctors, you might want to add Garnier Skin Naturals Dark Spot Corrector to your list. Formulated with vitamin C, it visibly minimizes dark and age spots as well as blemish marks. Plus, this non-greasy moisturizer helps to lighten the skin tone, leaving your skin radiant and flawless. Bid goodbye to dull and uneven skin now with the Garnier Skin Naturals Dark Spot Corrector!

Why we love it:

  • Affordable
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Dermatologically tested

Cons:

  • Difficult to find online for purchase

Price: RM35.00

Where to buy: Shopee

21. NANOWHITE Dark Spot Corrective Serum

NANOWHITE-dark-spot-corrector

Next on the list is NANOWHITE Dark Spot Corrective Serum which is loaded with all the ingredients you need to reduce the appearance of dark spots in just two weeks. Infused with Tea Tree Oil, Sea Algae, and vitamin C, this face serum does not only helps to lighten dark spots but prevents acne as well. In addition, it minimizes pigmentation and aids in skin discolouration for a radiant and clearer complexion.

Why we love it:

  • Minimises acne scars
  • Treats pigmentation
  • Contains vitamin C

Cons:

  • Difficult to find online for purchase

Price: RM78.00

Where to buy: Lazada

22. Garden of Wisdom C-Deep Vitamin C Serum

A non-sticky Vitamin C serum that works deep into the skin without leaving any sticky residue. It fades spots and scars left by blemishes and environmental factors that can damage the skin. It helps in speeding up the healing process of the skin while boosting collagen production to prevent premature ageing.

Why we love it:

  • Great alternative for those who can’t handle ascorbic acid
  • Has 3% tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate for 6x better absorption on the skin
  • Has 2% thiotaine to boost Vitamin C

Cons:

  • You need to leave for a few minutes for absorption

Price: RM125.00

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23. Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads

Nip + Fab-dark-spot-corrector

Oily skin and dark spots? Fret not, as the Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads are formulated for congested and acne-prone skin. It contains 5% of glycolic acid and lactic acid to gently exfoliate dead skin, thus preventing pigmentation and scars. Plus, it is added with salicylic acid to unclog the pores and prevent acne. This facial pad is the ultimate night treatment for every skin concern from acne, and discolouration to dark spots.

Why we love it:

  • Unclog pores
  • Gentle exfoliator
  • Moisturizes the skin

Cons:

  • It’s often sold out

Price: RM89.00

Where to buy: Shopee

24. Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

Skinceuticals-dark-spot-corrector

Have you ever wondered how Hollywood A-list celebs get their perfectly poreless and flawless skin? Well, their biggest secret is the Skinceuticals C E Ferulic. This serum is highly raved due to its top-notch formula which contains ferulic acid, as well as vitamins C and E. Don’t underestimate the size of the bottle as it effectively reverses the signs of ageing, reduces dark spots, and lightens the complexion.

Why we love it:

  • High potent dose of vitamin C
  • Nourishes and replenishes the skin
  • Decrease free radical damage

Cons:

  • Expensive

Price: RM670.88

Where to buy: Shopee

25. Olehenriksen Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum 

If you need a greener alternative to retinol, try the Olehenriksen Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum. Its formula features ingredients like bakuchiol, derived from plants and a natural alternative to retinol. It targets fine lines, pores, dark spots and wrinkles to help achieve a brighter and more even skin tone. 

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Evens out skin tone
  • Brightens skin

Cons:

  • It is difficult to find it online

Price: RM521.00

Where to buy: Ubuy

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