5 Products That Helped Fade My Post-Acne Dark Spots

I hate to say this, but I never really had acne growing up, except for a few blemishes here and there. It’s not because my skin was perfect—I think it was just preoccupied with other things like rosacea and keratosis pilaris. Recently, I had to switch from a birth control with estrogen to one without the hormone due to my hemiplegic migraine condition. Months into the switch, hormonal acne began popping up around my mouth and chin in a way I’d never experienced. At first, I panicked, but I’m lucky enough to have a variety of products at my fingertips to help manage the breakouts. Almost worse than the acne itself is the dark spots the blemishes leave behind. While I can’t tell you my skin is spotless just yet, these products have helped fade my dark spots over the course of a couple of months. As I continue on my journey, I’ll add any other good finds I come across.

What time of year do you most invest in beauty-related products? – Powered By PickUp1 / 5

PillowtalkDerm Major Fade Solution System ($165)

I used the entire system because, as a rule, I will do whatever New York dermatologist Shereene Idriss, MD says. Each product works together to deliver results, but I will note that the Flash Mask was the standout for me. There were more noticeable improvements the days after I used it. Each detail from ingredients to packaging is thoughtful coming from the mind of one of our favorite Instagram dermatologists.

YSE Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads ($72)

Molly Sims told me dermatologists were especially impressed with her new brand’s exfoliating pads, and I made a note of that. Once the turbulence began on my skin, I swiftly added these exfoliating pads to my regimen. The leave-on exfoliant with glycolic acid, PHAs and ectoin retexturizes and brightens without irritating my generally sensitive skin. I love how easy it is to use a pad exfoliator, so much like with my favorite ex, I will be coming back for more.

YSE Beauty 3 / 5

Pixi Vitamin C CapsuleCare ($24)

These capsules contain a potent blend of vitamins C and E and plant oils to help even out skin tone. They started to make a difference pretty quickly, and I love how easy they are to travel with. The smooth, moisturizer-like feel makes applying it a happily sensorial experience that you don’t mind tacking onto your routine.

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($48)

I’ve had this NewBeauty Award winner in my shower for a while for the occasional deep scrub, but when my skin started sprouting spots, I made it a more regular member of my routine—and it really helped. While talking with an aesthetician about what I was using, she said this one “really works,” but it can be harsh, so start slowly. It’s a resurfacing cleanser that helps brighten skin for improved tone and texture.

Rodial Vit C Brightening Cleansing Pads ($56)

These soft pads are the best thing to have on hand when you know you need to stay consistent with your vitamin C game, but you’re in a rush some mornings. They brighten skin, reduce the appearance of pores and retexturize in just a few swipes.