Ditch your face scrub (sorry, but scrubs are generally too aggressive for skin that’s prone to dark spots and hyperpigmentation), and get yourself a chemical exfoliant/acid, instead. One chemical exfoliant that Dr. Pierre recommends for dark spots is glycolic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps dissolve and shed the “glue” between dead, discolored skin cells, leaving you with a clearer, brighter, all-around glowier face.

Plus, by chemically exfoliating away surface-level dead cells, your skin will be better able to absorb any spot treatments or brightening serums you apply afterward, which helps make them more effective. Win-win.

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Dr. Pierre explains that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne, injuries, bug bites, or scratches can fade naturally in a few weeks or months, but things like sun damage or melasma (hyperpigmentation caused by hormones and sun exposure) will need topical or laser intervention, if you’re trying to get rid of them.

How do you get rid of dark spots fast?

Fortunately for you (and me), we’ve got a few treatments. Buuut that being said, this is the part where I remind you that the first step to getting rid of dark spots is to see a dermatologist who can identify what type of discoloration you’re working with, figure out the cause, and determine the best treatment options for your skin. “The cause of the dark spots is actually an important consideration,” Dr. Pierre explains. “Although there is definitely an overlap in treatment plans, different combinations will be used depending on the factors at play.”

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According to Dr. Peterson Pierre, a dermatologist with the Pierre Skin Care Institute in Westlake Village, California, common PHAs used in skin care products include:

gluconolactone
lactobionic acid
galactose

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