6 Essential Skin Brighteners That Will Transform Your Complexion

Get glowing with these skin brighteners.

By Liz Ritter, Executive Editor · Dec 7, 2015

The countdown to the craziest time of the year is on—and with it comes the pressing deadline to get glowing, perfect skin before the deluge of holiday parties, cocktail hours and catching up with old friends hits. These are our six picks for the products that will get you there in no time.

1 / 6

Herbivore Brighten Pineapple Enzyme + Gemstone Instant Glow Mask ($48)

Tackle texture, skin tone and dry skin with this all-in-one formula. It works immediately to unclog pores; over time, it gently resurfaces (it contains real gemstones) to make skin look better even without makeup.

2 / 6

HydroPeptide 5X Power Peel ($68)

These daily-use clarifying pads are like a facial in a bottle. They contain the hardworking acids of glycolic, lactic and salicylic yet they’re rounded out by an anti-redness peptide and red and green tea to soothe skin in the process so there’s no irritation.

3 / 6

Natura Bissé Essential Shock Intense Retinol Fluid ($105)

This tiny tube is strong: It contains a high concentration of retinol plus other potent glow inducers including amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants. But, don’t overdo it—just the tiniest drop before you go to bed will have you on your way to a more radiant complexion, minus the redness.

4 / 6

Olay Regenerist Luminous Overnight Mask ($26)

This moisturizing gel mask is meant to be worn as you sleep. It counts the miracle worker of mulberry root extract as its avenger against discoloration; vitamin E and vitamin B help provide hydration, antioxidants and skin strengthening as well.

5 / 6

Eve Lom Brightening Cream ($110)

Lightweight and silky as soon as you apply it to skin, this super hydrator contains a slew of antioxidants to correct hyperpigmentation and boost brightness.

6 / 6

Cosmedicine Night Duty Perfected Overnight Resurfacing Serum ($220)

With science that claims to work with your body’s circadian rhythms while you sleep to optimize skin cell turnover, this brightening serum soaks into skin to deliver antioxidants, salicylic acid and anti-inflammatories.