This is the best serum to combat pigmentation spots

The most effective against pigmentation is a skincare serum. This is the booster in your skincare routine that can reduce dark spots (melanin). Think of active substances like niacinamide, vitamin C and AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids). Read on!

Do you also suffer from those annoying pigmentation spots and do you feel like they are ruining your skincare goals? Don't worry, you're not alone! Hyperpigmentation, or those dark spots on your skin, is a common problem that many people struggle with.But don't be dismayed, because we're on the hunt for the holy grail of serums to conquer those spots!

Read everything about pigmentation spots in this article, how you can treat them and which serum we recommend. Scroll quickly!

But first, let's take a look at what hyperpigmentation actually is. In simple terms, it's a fancy word for 'too much pigment in certain places'. Your skin decides to get a little overenthusiastic in some places with the production of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. The result? Dark spots that make your skin look like you have huge freckles. The cause of hyperpigmentation is often due to exposure to the sun, inflammation, or hormonal changes.

Now that you know what it is, you might be wondering: "But how do I get rid of it?!" Don't panic! Fortunately, there are several ways to tackle those pigmentation spots, and a good serum is at the top of the list. But what makes a serum against pigmentation 'the best'? Let's take a look at the ingredients that really make a difference.

If you want to reduce pigmentation spots, you can choose from various active ingredients that serums contain: antioxidation and inhibition of melanin, accelerated cell renewal, or reducing pigment transport.Three ingredients that often shine together or separately are vitamin C, AHA (for example: glycolic acid) and niacinamide.

Morning: vitamin C + SPF Day Cream: Vitamin C works especially well as a morning serum to inhibit and deter radical substances.

Evening: Often use AHA’s at night (reduces risk of irritation), and afterwards always use a day cream with SPF the next day — AHAs can temporarily make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Niacinamide is very safe and mixes well with many other ingredients (be careful with combinations with strong acids for sensitive skin).For example, do a patch test!

If there's one ingredient you absolutely want in your anti-pigmentation serum, it's Vitamin C. This vitamin is not only good for your immune system, but it's also a wizard when it comes to brightening your skin. It works like a sort of 'delete' button for pigmentation spots, while at the same time protecting your skin against new spots. This is, for example, a top serum against pigmentation spots with Vitamin C. A serum with Vitamin C brightens the skin, and stimulates collagen production. This means that your skin renews itself. The result is an even skin tone.

AHA’s (e.g. glycolic acid & fruit acids) may sound like something from a chemistry lesson, but they are actually the powerhouse when it comes to combating pigmentation spots. These acids help to exfoliate the top layer of your skin, revealing new, radiant skin. By concentrating them in a serum, they do their job extra well. But be careful if you have sensitive skin, always patch-test it first on another part of your body.For example, take a look at this powerful serum from Image Skincare for pigmentation spots.

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is one of the most multifunctional ingredients that exist. It not only helps in reducing pigmentation spots, but it can also improve the complexion of your skin, minimize pores, and even help with acne.

At the same time, niacinamide reduces inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier. Two effects that are important because inflammation can exacerbate pigmentation.

Practical point of view: Niacinamide is friendly to all skin types and combines well with other active ingredients (such as vitamin C, retinol or AHAs), but if you have very sensitive skin, you can start with a lower concentration and build up slowly. Use it both in the morning and in the evening for optimal results and always combine with a day cream with SPF when you start your day. The use of an SPF is crucial to prevent new pigmentation spots.

If you have chosen a serum against pigmentation spots (or perhaps even combine several at once) there are some things important to consider. First of all, patience is a virtue. Your pigmentation spots will not disappear immediately. It can take weeks or even months before you really see results.So don't panic if you don't immediately look in the mirror after the first application and think "Wow, clinically proven skincare really works!"

Secondly, sun protection is key! You can use the best serum in the world, but if you then go sunbathing without protection, you are actually engaged in a very expensive form of waste. So apply that SPF, wear a hat, or even better, become a vampire and avoid the sun. Unless you apply sunscreen properly! We can't say it often enough.

Thirdly, every skin type is different. What works for one person may have the opposite effect for another.So if you notice that your skin is not so happy with your new serum, stop using it and possibly consult a dermatologist. Of course, you want to get rid of your pigmentation spots, not end up with irritated skin. 

Want to know more about serums? Read blog: Best serums of 2025 →

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There is not one 'best' serum! The best serum is the serum that works best for your skin. However, if we have to make a general recommendation, a serum with a combination of vitamin C, niacinamide, and AHAs would be the best choice for most skin types.

Don't forget that consistency is key. Use your serum regularly, be patient, and before you know it, you will notice that those pigmentation spots are slowly but surely fading.And who knows, you might become so enthusiastic about your new, radiant skin that you decide to make skincare your new hobby!

Completely free and composed by our skin therapists