Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, can be a source of frustration for many people striving for a clear and even complexion. These stubborn marks, caused by various factors such as sun exposure, aging, or hormonal changes, often require effective solutions to diminish their appearance. The good news? There are products that can help reduce the appearance of dark spots—like retinol!

Here, Curology’s team of licensed dermatology providers explore the science behind retinol and its effects on hyperpigmentation. We’ll explain how it works, discuss the potential side effects, and provide practical tips on how you can incorporate retinol into your skincare routine. 

What are dark spots?

Hyperpigmentation is a prevalent dermatological condition characterized by the darkening of the skin, resulting from a range of internal and external factors. Skin color is primarily determined by melanin, a pigment produced by specialized skin cells known as melanocytes. Any disruptions in the production or distribution of melanin can give rise to hyperpigmentation.¹

There are various types of hyperpigmentation, each with its distinctive characteristics. Melasma is identified by the presence of irregular patches of brown or gray-brown skin that appear on sun-exposed areas, predominantly affecting women.² Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) manifests as dark patches that develop after skin injury or inflammation (such as acne). Solar lentigines, commonly referred to as “age spots” or “sunspots,” are darkened flat lesions caused by hyperpigmentation. And freckles, as you’re likely familiar with, are reddish to light brown spots commonly found on the face, neck, and arms, and are more prevalent among individuals with lighter skin tones.³

Although hyperpigmentation is a cosmetic concern across various ages and skin types, it tends to be more prevalent among middle-aged women and individuals with darker skin tones.⁴ 

What causes dark spots?

Our skin color is determined by cells called melanocytes, which make a pigment called melanin. These melanocytes store melanin in tiny structures called melanosomes. The melanin is then transferred to nearby skin cells called keratinocytes, giving our skin its color. Hormones also play a role in regulating melanin production.⁵

Melanosomes travel to the outer layers of the skin and can either stay intact in darker skin or break down into smaller particles in fairer skin. These processes contribute to the different skin colors and appearances we see in people.⁶ Hyperpigmentation occurs when there are disruptions in the normal melanin production process. Factors like sun exposure, inflammation, and hormones can affect melanin production and lead to dark spots or patches on the skin.⁷

All about topical retinoids 

The modern history of retinoids began in 1909 when vitamin A was discovered.⁸ Further research showed that not having enough vitamin A (retinol) can lead to dry skin (xerosis). Retinoids were later introduced for the treatment of photoaging, which results from sun damage.⁹

The retinoid family comprises vitamin A and its natural derivatives, such as retinaldehyde, retinoic acid, and retinyl esters, along with numerous synthetic variations. Since our bodies are unable to produce vitamin A, it is essential for us to obtain it through our diet.¹⁰

Retinoids have several effects on the skin including reducing hyperpigmentation or dark spots. 

Tretinoin is a type of retinoid that occurs naturally and has been suggested to be effective in treating dark spots caused by sun damage.¹¹ Using lower concentrations of tretinoin in creams or gels can help minimize side effects like dryness, irritation, or peeling. There are also other synthetic retinoids available, like adapalene and tazarotene, which have been found to be safe and effective in treating dark spots on the skin.¹²

Retinol for dark spots

Retinol shows promise in treating aging and photoaging and may be associated with reduced skin water loss, redness, and scaling than other topical retinoids.¹³ Retinol stimulates collagen synthesis in photoaged skin. Topical retinoids have been shown to increase epidermal thickness and skin cell proliferation. Clinical trials reveal retinol’s efficacy in reducing fine wrinkles. In aging skin, it can boost fibroblast growth and can enhance collagen synthesis.¹⁴

Topical retinoids, including newer synthetic formulations, can be effective in treating acne and lightening dark spots. These treatments can be beneficial for individuals seeking clearer and more even-toned skin.¹⁵

In one particular 40-week trial, tretinoin was evaluated in people with dark spots caused by acne, shaving, eczema, and other conditions. The study found improvements as early as week 4! It should be noted that some participants experienced skin side effects like dryness and/ or irritation, which were generally managed with moisturizers or temporary reduction/discontinuation of the medication.¹⁶

Another retinoid called tazarotene works by regulating gene expression and reducing cell proliferation and inflammation. Tazarotene is FDA-approved for treating fine wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and certain skin conditions. In clinical trials, tazarotene showed significant reductions in overall hyperpigmentation severity, intensity, and area of dark spots.¹⁷

How to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine

Retinol can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine and is available in various forms, making it versatile and easy to incorporate into your regimen. It can be found in products like serums, moisturizers, masks, and even eye creams. 

Consider reaching out to a dermatology provider prior to using retinol as they will be able to steer you in the direction of what specific products are best suited for your unique skin. 

Personalized skincare with Curology

By understanding the science behind retinol and following proper usage guidelines, people can harness its potential to effectively fade dark spots and achieve a more radiant and even-toned complexion. It’s always best to consult with a dermatology provider for personalized recommendations and to address any specific concerns or questions related to incorporating retinol into a skincare routine.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

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To address certain skin concerns you may have, consider signing up for a 30 day trial with Curology.* Our team of licensed dermatology providers can provide you with personalized skincare recommendations and products based on your needs—all you need to do is answer a few questions and take a few photos of your skin.

P.S. We did the homework so you don't have to:

1. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. (2021, May 17).

2. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

3. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

4. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

5. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

6. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

7. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

8. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging. (December 2006).

9. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging. Ibid.

10. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging. Ibid.

11. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

12. Nautiyal, A. and Wairkar, S. Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies. Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research. Ibid.

13. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging. Ibid.

14. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging. Ibid.

15. Calendar, V.D., et al. Effects of Topical Retinoids on Acne and Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Skin of Color: A Clinical Review and Implications for Practice. Am J Clin Dermatol. (2021, November 9).

16. Calendar, V.D., et al. Effects of Topical Retinoids on Acne and Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Skin of Color: A Clinical Review and Implications for Practice. Am J Clin Dermatol. Ibid.

17. Calendar, V.D., et al. Effects of Topical Retinoids on Acne and Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Skin of Color: A Clinical Review and Implications for Practice. Am J Clin Dermatol. Ibid.

18. Mukherjee, S., et al. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. Ibid.

19. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or Retinol?. (2021, May 25).

20. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or Retinol?. Ibid.

21. Calendar, V.D., et al. Effects of Topical Retinoids on Acne and Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation in Patients with Skin of Color: A Clinical Review and Implications for Practice. Am J Clin Dermatol. Ibid.

22. Fatima, S., et al. The Role of Sunscreen in Melasma and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation. Indian J Dermatol. (January-February 2020).

23. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or Retinol?. Ibid.

24. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or Retinol?. Ibid.

25. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retinoid or Retinol?. Ibid.

Camille Dixon is a certified Physician Assistant at Curology. She received her Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL.

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Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Camille Dixon