A glycolic exfoliant to resurface, paired with a targeted brightening active like alpha arbutin, is a strong combo for fading dark spots on melanin-rich skin.

• Glycolic acid resurfaces by speeding up cell turnover, helping pigmented cells shed faster.
• Alpha arbutin works alongside it by slowing new pigment production at the source - a gentler option well suited to melanin-rich skin.
• My 7% Glycolic Tonic is my exfoliating step in a pigmentation-focused routine.
• Give it 6-8+ weeks minimum before judging results - pigment fades gradually.
• SPF is essential here - unprotected skin will keep making new marks as fast as you fade old ones.

Alpha arbutin gently slows pigment production at the source, while tranexamic acid works further upstream on the triggers - making it the stronger option for stubborn or hormonal pigmentation.

• Alpha arbutin comes from the bearberry plant and works gradually by inhibiting the enzyme behind melanin production.
• Tranexamic acid targets the signalling that tells your skin to overproduce pigment in the first place.
• Pair either with an exfoliant like glycolic acid to speed up how quickly pigmented cells shed.
• Expect initial results in 4-6 weeks, with bigger changes over 3+ months.
• Both are worth trying - your skin might simply respond better to one over the other.