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.

For best results, apply to clean, dry skin both morning and night. Using fingertip, apply to affected areas. Do not rinse off. Allow to dry completely before applying moisturizer.

Proactiv(R) Solution Skin Lightening Lotion is specially formulated to help gradually fade skin discolorations caused by age, pregnancy, or oral contraceptives.

Summary. Proactiv's Post Acne Dark Mark Relief is a hydroquinone-free formula designed to diminish the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and help even skin tone.

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.

Our top pick for the best dark spot corrector overall is the Hyper Skin Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum. Formulated with a mix of vitamin C, kojic acid, and hyaluronic acid, this skincare formula is designed to target stubborn blemishes caused by acne scarring and sun damage.

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

** It also helps address spots caused by acne (known as post-blemish marks), as well as sun spots and age spots. The potent yet gentle formula is suitable for all skin types and can be used morning and night to help reveal more even, radiant-looking skin with consistent use.

Yes. Proactiv products are designed for acne-prone skin. No matter your ethnicity or skin type – dry, oily, combination, normal or sensitive – Proactiv will have the right combination of products for you.

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.

Those with acne scars may also use hydroquinone-based skin-lightening creams. Products containing hydroquinone are available with a prescription. These products are generally safe, but long-term use can cause issues, such as ochronosis.

The FDA also reported that hydroquinone has been shown to cause disfiguring effects (ochronosis) after unmonitored, long-term use of concentrations as low as 1 to 2%.