I’ve dropped a ton of cash on stuff that claims to clear up dark spots, but nothing has delivered. I’ve tried things like Vitamin C, brightening lotions, and even the beef tallow trend. I’ve experimented with various other ingredients too. Honestly, I feel like I’m just throwing money away at this point 
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15% Azelaic acid twice a day and Retin A on alternating nights.
Melano CC is my favorite Vitamin C and it’s made a huge difference in my skin’s clarity! Plus, I NEVER skip sunscreen!! Don’t ever go out without putting it on.
Check out the anti-pigment products from Eucerin.
Tretinoin cleared up my spots and breakouts in just three weeks. Most people go through a “purging” phase, though I was lucky enough to skip it. I spent over a decade wasting money on high-end products that did nothing. Even professional facials and changing my diet didn’t help.
Geek and Gorgeous C-glow is basically a cheaper version of SkinCeuticals. I apply it every morning followed by SPF. A few nights a week, I use a low-strength retinol. I use the sandwich technique—Cerave moisturizer, then retinol, then Vaseline—to prevent irritation. It’s effective, but it takes time. You have to be consistent and never forget your sunscreen.
La Roche-Posay MELA B3 Serum with Melasyl, used both day and night. I apply it after my Tretinoin in the evening.
These are the ones that actually helped me:
SKIN1004 Brightening Boosting Ampoule
Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Beauty of Joseon Light On Serum
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum
I’m planning to pick up the Peach Slices Super Fade Serum once it’s in stock at Ulta.
I’m a big fan of azelaic acid myself!!