For hyperpigmentation, niacinamide is likely more effective as it directly inhibits melanin production in skin cells. Azelaic acid works by accelerating cell turnover and reducing inflammation.
But it may be used in combination with other anti-acne products. Does azelaic acid remove dark spots? Yes, azelaic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor, meaning it blocks the function of pigment-producing cells. Over time, this can help lighten discoloration.
Salicylic acid
It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation.
Treat dark spots
Niacinamide is dermatologist-approved for brightening skin tone. Some research suggests skin care formulas with 5% niacinamide can also help lighten dark spots. In one small study, a combination of skin brighteners including retinol and niacinamide reduced dark spots and fine lines.
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a potent antioxidant that works to protect and soothe skin while supporting a healthy skin barrier to reduce the impact of environmental damage. It is best known for its ability to minimize the look of discoloration and dark spots, resulting in a more even-toned complexion.
WHEN TO EXPECT VISIBLE IMPROVEMENTS. In skincare, patience is a virtue. And with niacinamide, the wait is definitely worthwhile. Scientific studies suggest it takes around eight weeks when using niacinamide to see visible improvements in hyperpigmentation, although some users may see benefits more quickly than that.
Niacinamide and retinol are popular skin care ingredients that can treat acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging. While they have similar effects, retinol is more potent. However, it may also cause more significant side effects. It is possible to use the ingredients alone or in combination.
Hydroquinone. Topical HQ is regarded as the gold standard for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation. HQ is a bleaching agent that acts by inhibiting tyrosinase to limit melanin production in the skin.
DON'T MIX: AHA/BHA and niacinamide
Niacinamide is used to treat hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants. To understand why niacinamide shouldn't be mixed with AHAs and BHAs, you need to consider pH.
- Effectiveness: Both niacinamide and azelaic acid are effective ingredients in treating pimples and hyperpigmentation in individuals. You might be able to enjoy more benefits with a powerful combination of niacinamide and azelaic acid together.
Q: Which ingredient works the fastest for dark spots? A: Hydroquinone (available by prescription) is one of the most potent options, but retinol, vitamin C, and glycolic acid also deliver visible results with consistent use.
Both niacinamide and azelaic acid provide key benefits for blemish mark concerns by working on different areas of the skin. By using both together, it can encourage healthier skin with a more even tone than if using one formula alone.
If you're taking it to clear up acne, it may be a month before your skin improves. If your doctor has prescribed azelaic acid for rosacea, you may not see a positive change for 3 months. If your skin stays the same or gets worse, let your doctor know. You may need a different treatment.
She mentioned that she likes a morning skincare routine that features azelaic acid instead. "The reason is because azelaic acid is good for pigmentation, it's anti-inflammatory and evens out skin tone." In other words, it works similarly to vitamin C but is arguably more effective.
Using 10% Niacinamide consistently reduces acne marks, dark spots and blemishes. The face serum is power-packed with natural and non-comedogenic ingredients. It is free of sulphates, parabens, dyes, fragrances, essential oils and silicones.
One chemical exfoliant that Dr. Pierre recommends for dark spots is glycolic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps dissolve and shed the "glue" between dead, discolored skin cells, leaving you with a clearer, brighter, all-around glowier face.
Both ingredients can fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production. Vitamin C (depending on the percentage) can be more harsh for sensitive skin types. Or, you might want to use niacinamide if you have acne-prone skin, and leverage Vitamin C for fading post-acne marks and dark spots.
The best retinol we tried for dark spots is The Inkey List SuperSolutions 1% Retinol Serum. It also features apricot kernel oil and squalane in its formula to provide deep nourishment while resurfacing the skin's texture, evening out tone, and addressing dark spots and other blemishes.
In addition, ceramides can reduce free radicals in the skin that destroy elastin and collagen. This helps prevent metabolic processes that can lead to hyperpigmentation and age spots. Ceramides hold skin cells firmly together in the uppermost skin layer.
If you want to get rid of dark spots fast, a procedure that removes layers of discolored skin may work better than a lightening cream. These techniques include laser treatments, freezing (cryotherapy), dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and chemical peels.
Hydroquinone
When it comes to dark spot treatments, hydroquinone has been the gold standard for more than 50 years. You can find this ingredient over the counter in concentrations of 2% or less, and you can also get prescription versions, which have 4% or greater.