Treating hyperpigmentation in tanned skin can be a challenge. The tan itself is the result of exposure to the sun, which is often the same source of the hyperpigmentation. And as the tan fades the appearance of dark spots is likely to change in relation to the surrounding skin. So measuring success can be tricky. The good news is that there are some serums on the market today that do a good job of mitigating dark spots by blending them into the tone of the surrounding skin. Below we’ve brought together 4 of them, including one we judged to be the best serum for hyperpigmentation for tanned skin tones.
4 of the Best Serums for Hyperpigmentation for Tanned Skin
Trying to eliminate dark spots on tanned skin is no easy feat but the following serums are up to the challenge.
Hian Skin Renewal Serum by UK entrepreneur Bianca Miller leads the way when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation in people with tanned skin tones. Its effectiveness is due to a unique formulation that leverages the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities of kahai seed oil, retinyl palmitate, chamomile and squalane. Melanin production is slowed, dark spots are gradually blended in with the surrounding skin tone, and the skin is left with a radiant look and smooth, supple feel. Hian Skin Renewal Serum is cruelty-free, vegan and free of potentially harmful artificial ingredients.
#2: Dr. Brenner Vitamin C Serum
Dr Brenner’s Vitamin C Serum also contains ferulic acid, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and other ingredients designed to reduce hyperpigmentation while resolving issues that can affect the integrity of the underlayers of skin. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, while hyaluronic acid is well known for its astonishing ability to attract and retain 1,000 times its weight in water, meaning it’s great for restoring moist, supple skin. Vitamin C Serum takes time to produce results, but good things come to those who wait.
#3: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is often found on lists of the 10 or 20 best hyperpigmentation products for people with all types of skin. Its secret ingredient, if you can call it that, is l-ascorbic acid which is a potent antioxidant that works to neutralize the free radicals behind so much skin damage. But this serum does more than that. It also shuts down melanin production in the affected area, causing it to gradually return to its natural tone. The challenge is stopping when it matches the tone of your tanned skin.
#4: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
When serum producers are looking for a more or less surefire way to make their hyperpigmentation serum reduce dark spots they turn to retinol. So why doesn’t everyone use retinol? Because, besides being effective at reducing dark spots, it’s also known to produce side effects that include red skin, itchiness, contact dermatitis and more. That said CeraVe does a good job reducing dark spots, including those produced by acne and injury. Just be mindful that the longer you use it the more likely you are to experience retinol side effects.