This essential trio gently resurfaces skin, smooths rough texture, and reduces the appearance of post-acne dark marks while protecting skin from UV rays without clogging pores or causing breakouts.

"Dark spot correctors are used to lighten and diminish skin hyperpigmentation resulting from acne, sun damage or an otherwise uneven skin tone," says Alan J. Parks, M.D., dermatologist and founder of DermWarehouse in Columbus, Ohio.

Our top picks:

• Best Overall: Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense, $108.
• Best for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector, $29.
• Best for Melanated Tones: Topicals Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration, $38.
• Most Versatile: L'Oréal Paris Revitalift, $15.

We recommend using a dark spot treatment 1-2 times a day, depending on how sensitive your skin is.

Yes. It's important to use your Proactiv system as directed. The steps work synergistically, each building from the previous step, to address skincare and the complex condition of acne. Remember, acne is not curable, and it is chronic, so continued daily treatment is necessary to prevent breakouts.

In rare cases, some people may have a severe allergic reaction to Proactiv when they first start using it. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: small red bumps on the treated skin. intense itching of the treated area.

A: Some potential side effects from using dark spot removers include redness, irritation, itching, dryness, and peeling. Certain ingredients might make the skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn.

While these are not necessarily permanent and can fade over time with some lifestyle changes (read: stay out of the sun), there are an exorbitant number of the best dark spot correctors that can speed along the process.

Are the results of dark spot removal permanent? Yes. Most dark spots will not return if removed. However, sun exposure may cause new dark spots to grow.

If a person wants to get rid of dark spots, they can try a range of treatments, including working with a dermatologist for cosmetic procedures or using over-the-counter products. The effectiveness of treatment may depend on the cause of the dark spots and their extent. Dark spots on the skin may not completely fade.

A: Some potential side effects from using dark spot removers include redness, irritation, itching, dryness, and peeling. Certain ingredients might make the skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn.

With that being said, Proactiv may be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate acne outbreaks and scarring. But it's not a miracle cure, and it won't work for everyone. According to its product description, Proactiv doesn't work on cystic or nodular acne. It's also not the best option for severe acne.