KIEHL'S REWARDS Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector
All Skin Types
A dark spot corrector and brightening serum that helps visibly reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks.
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What It Is
A targeted dark spot corrector that helps even skin tone and boost radiance. Formulated with Activated C (a stabilized form of Vitamin C), buffered Salicylic Acid, and Peony extract, this efficacious brightening serum helps visibly reduce the appearance of a broad array of discolorations including dark spots, hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks. Our dark spot corrector has been tested on all ethnicities and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.*
After using one bottle of our dark spot corrector:**
- 97% saw a visible reduction in hyperpigmentation
- 97% saw a visible reduction in dark spots
- 87% saw a visible reduction in post-acne marks
*This product was tested on a multi-ethnic panel equally distributed: 25% African American, 25% Asian, 25% Caucasian, 25% Hispanic
**Results based on expert grading in a 12-week clinical test on 104 subjects.
What It’s Good For
- Clinically proven to reduce hyperpigmentation by -49%, dark spots by -39% and post-acne marks by -27%
- Dark spot corrector visibly reduces a broad spectrum of dark spots including those caused by age and UV exposure
- Helps visibly reduce post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
- Helps visibly brighten skin over time for a more even and radiant skin tone
- Dermatologist-tested for safety and gentleness on all skin types, including sensitive
*Based on a 12-week clinical study of 17 women with all skin types presented with mild to moderate severity of attributes, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
How to Use our Dark Spot Corrector
- Apply dark spot corrector morning and night, before your moisturizer
- May be used as spot treatment or over entire face
- Dark spot correcting serum may also be used to correct visible discolorations on hands, neck and chest
- For optimal results, apply a daily sunscreen
- Explore the rest of the Clearly Corrective™ collection including our skin brightening face wash, treatment water, brightening moisturizer and ampoules
A Universal Dark Spot Corrector
Our dark spot corrector has been tested on all ethnicities and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.*
*This product was tested on a multi-ethnic panel equally distributed: 25% African American, 25% Asian, 25% Caucasian, 25% Hispanic
Key Ingredients
ACTIVATED C
Activated C, which is a stabilized form of Vitamin C that specifically addresses uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation, goes to work immediately upon contact with the skin. Within our formula, Activated C helps visibly diminish the look of dullness and uneven skin tone and helps increase clarity and brightness for a healthy-looking, more radiant complexion.
BUFFERED SALICYLIC ACID
Targeting skin’s surface, it works together with Activated C to visibly reduce discoloration and renew the look of skin's texture.
PEONY EXTRACT
Used in traditional Chinese medicine, Peony Extract is a natural antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative damage. In our formulas, it works with Activated C to enhance skin clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients are in Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution and How Do They Help Brighten Dark Spots?
How Does Activated C Target Dark Spots?
Is Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum Recommended to Use as a Spot Treatment or on the Entire Face?
Can Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum be Used on Darker Skin Tones?
What Causes Dark Spots on Your Face and What are the Different Types of Dark Spots?
How can you Help Prevent Dark Spots on Skin?
Do Dark Spots Diminish Over Time?
What is Skin Clarity?
HOW DOES SALICYLIC ACID TREAT DARK SPOTS?
CAN SALICYLIC ACID HELP FADE POST-ACNE MARKS?
Is Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum Safe to Use While Pregnant?
What Causes Dark Spots?
Melanin is what gives hair, eyes, and skin their color, and dictates whether areas of your skin may have dark spots, discoloration, or hyperpigmentation. Their appearance may be due to sun damage (sun spots), inflammation (often a result of eczema, psoriasis, or acne), and hormones—sometimes seen in pregnant women. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation are common, and potent formulas like Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector and brightening serum are an effective way to treat them.
Before and After Using our Dark Spot Corrector
Kiehl’s brightening serum and dark spot corrector is incredibly effective, with results showing a brighter, more even skin tone. Consistent application of our serum for dark spots showed improvements in everything from hyperpigmentation to sun spots. Regular use of this dark spot correcting serum is clinically-proven* to help visibly reduce:
- Dark Spots Color by -39%
- Hyperpigmentation by -49%
- Post-Acne Marks by -27%
*Based on a 12-week clinical study of 17 women with all skin types presented with mild to moderate severity of attributes, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Future Made Better
True to our founding family’s mission, we strive to improve the quality of the communities we serve by reducing our
environmental impact, formulating responsibly, and supporting charitable causes. This formula is made with:
environmental impact, formulating responsibly, and supporting charitable causes. This formula is made with:
Responsible Formulation
Complete Your Routine
Discover efficacious formulas to upgrade your routine.
Step 1: Cleanse
Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash
A highly effective, deep cleansing face wash that replenishes and soothes skin.
$34.00
Step 2: Tone
Step 3: Correct
Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector
A dark spot corrector and brightening serum that helps visibly reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks.
$56.00
Step 4: Hydrate
Rated 1 out of
5
by
Zj2020 from
This product doesn't work
I have used this product for almost half year.It does not work.The dark spot not even a little lighter.I am so disappointed and feel like wasting my money.
Date published: 2020-12-29
Rated 1 out of
5
by
JJinSeattle from
I see zero change.
I have been using this product for about 2 and 1/2 months. I use it every morning and every evening and still see no difference. I will continue to search for a different product that's more effective.
Date published: 2020-12-27
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Trayld67 from
I got rid of my dark spots
I was using another product and they change their formula and it didn’t seem to work the same and since I was already using other products by Kiehl’s which I’ve being using for 19 years and I must say I have beautiful skin so I knew the dark spot correct would be ok so I got samples and after using the product for a while my dark spots started to fade
Date published: 2020-12-25
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Lukne from
Noticeable result
After 4 days using day and night (i put only 2 drops in my cream) i see amazing rezults! Wasn't expecting that.
Date published: 2020-12-17
Rated 5 out of
5
by
June2020 from
Reduces redness and sun soots
I received a 7 day sample of this. I applied it to freshly cleansed problem areas morning and night. Let dry before applying other products and make sure to use sunscreen! The samples lasted more than 7 days due to spot use. Sun spots on cheekbones are slightly lighter compared to photos I took when starting use. They also are less well defined. More importantly redness - likely due to sun, pregnancy hormones and inflammation - right down the center of my face is noticeably reduced which has had a bigger effect on my overall appearance. I have olive tan skin which tends to be a bit dry and a bit sensitive and live in a northern state with harsh winters and scorching hot summers. The Results are more visible if you spot treat than put on your whole face. I recommend trying this product. Nordstrom sells a half ounce bottle which is a nice option for those who want to try it without a big investment.
Date published: 2020-12-03
Rated 1 out of
5
by
TC Gal from
No noticeable difference
I had used a drugstore product on a troublesome age spot, which has made it less noticeable. I am such a fan of Kiehls that I thought I would double down with this one. Sadly, no improvement after one whole bottle and sunscreen were used daily. I also tried to “double” down with a Vitamin C serum since some online research shows that help. But no luck. Before and after photos included.
Date published: 2020-11-30
Rated 3 out of
5
by
Nkay from
Half Bottle Use
I've used more than half of this, and I do not see much difference since I first began using it. I still use them as my routine but no visible difference. Hope to see some changes at the end of the bottle though.
Date published: 2020-11-30
Rated 5 out of
5
by
NikiM from
Gotta Use It Correctly!!
I am stunned by all the bad reviews about this product. His dark spot solution TOTALLY WORKS! I am black and have medium brown, sensitive skin. The key to success and positive results with this product is YOU MUST USE IT CORRECTLY! I was given excellent instructions by a Kiehls consultant in-store. You must apply the product to a damp face. A little goes a long way! Just put a dot size of product on each desk spot or a pea size to a particular trouble area. Then rub it in profusely with your fingers - and I mean really
it in. You should let it dry in before putting moisturizer on. This MUST be done Morning and Night... every single day!! You have to be very strict about doing this every day. I have used this periodically over the years and always had excellent results. You must be patient because you won’t see results until at least 3 weeks of proper, regular, daily use! Be patient and your skin will clear up. Trust me!!!
Date published: 2020-11-28
Rated 5 out of
5
by
digitaLEEq from
Evens out dark spots on dark skin
I suffer from psuedofolliculites barbae when I shave. It took about two years before friends noticed, but the improvement is obvious when side by side images of before and after I started using the serum are compared.
Date published: 2020-11-28
Rated 5 out of
5
by
KayP from
Wait on progress
This is a really great product. It does take some time to see results but you will definitely notice a difference in the clarity of your skin if you are patient
Date published: 2020-11-27
Rated 1 out of
5
by
Bshre from
Waste of money
I have used it for almost 4 months but have not seen any results. I waited to see if any of my dark spots will fade or go away but it is exactly the same. Read good reviews about this and bought this expensive product and waited patiently to see some good results but very disappointed.
Date published: 2020-11-21
Rated 1 out of
5
by
Toine718 from
This product is a waste
Horrible it does not work i been using this product for 5 months and it doesn’t seem to be doing anything for my dark spots.
Date published: 2020-11-10
Rated 1 out of
5
by
Msbella from
Didn't work for me
I used a little more than half of the product and it hasn't made any difference in 4 months. My dark spot are still there, I combined it with, and without Victim C serum both didn't work. I'm very disappointed, this is money wasted. :(
Date published: 2020-11-07
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Meka from
It works
I got this product solely on reviews, hoping that the reviews would be accurate. Yes, it works!! I’m not sure why I didn’t listen to the one review and take a picture of before/after but I forgot. Let’s say I got a huge bump on my nose out of no where that left an not so flattering dark mark. I was so self conscious this morning because I've never gotten a bump there. I started using this product over a month ago and I see a huge difference already. I try to use it day/night.
Date published: 2020-09-30
Rated 5 out of
5
by
didi1234 from
Couldn't believe it worked as well as it did
I got a free sample of this a few months ago and have been using it for a small scar/blemish on my leg. I honestly couldn't believe it worked as well as it did. I would say after maybe 6 or so applications, the dark spot was noticeably lighter and beginning to go away. Purchasing my own bottle to continue to use!
Date published: 2020-09-16
Rated 3 out of
5
by
MDoherty from
It does work!
This product does work. But, it would be much easier to apply with a roller. The solution is light and feels awkward to apply with a dropper.
Date published: 2020-08-27
Rated 1 out of
5
by
msbart from
Does not work
I bought this over one year ago, despite reviews that claimed it doesn't work. I should have listened to the users. I do not recommend this product.
Date published: 2020-08-24
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Abcd from
A miracle product. Worth every penny!
I got a sample of this product when buying Kiehls’ moisturizer for my husband (his favorite). I didn’t think a lot about it and the sample laid on my bathroom counter for sometime. I have had horrible breakouts regularly since I was a teenager (I Am 36 now). As usual, I had bad breakout all over my face right before my period day and it left me with multiple large dark areas. I decided to use the sample. First thought was that it was easy to apply, it spreads and absorbs very well. I really like the feeling on my face after applying it as it really light and airy. The sample lasted me about 3 days. At the end of day 3, I already saw the difference in the dark areas. They were lighten significantly. My skin is not forgiving, and the hyperpigmentation usually lasts forever. With this product, omg, 3 days! I was so impressed that I went online immediately and purchased a 1.0 oz bottle. This time I applied it all over my face instead of just the dark areas. The second time around, I feel like it took a little longer to see the effect like I did with the sample. However, I consistently use it 2 times a day, and I started to notice that my hyperpigmentation was fading away after 1 week. Now, around 2 weeks, I saw some areas looking darker than usual and I started doubting the product. However, I kept on using it. And just a few days later, those darker spots were just pilling off, revealing a smoother, more even-toned layer of skin underneath. I was blown away. I rarely write reviews, but this miraculous product makes me. I wanted to let more people know about this product. I used it faithfully and cannot imagine my routine without it now. At the end of my first bottle, my overall skin appearance was brighter, smoother, my hyperpigmentation went away quickly. My husband even noticed the difference and complimented on my skin. We’ve been home only due to Covid, but I can’t wait to show off my skin once I get back to work. The 1 oz bottle lasted me 2 months only (I probably put too much as I love it so much). Today, Kiehls has 25% off and I am pampering myself by getting me the largest bottle. Please keep this product forever. I am Asian with mature, acne-proned skin, and I’ve found one holy grail for my skin. If you use it consistently, it will work miraculously. Take it from my experience, you may see some dry patches that appear darker than other areas, don’t worry, just keep on using it. The dry patches are the skin areas with problems, and the product is just working it way to fix it. Just need faith in the product.
Date published: 2020-08-02
Rated 1 out of
5
by
Donki from
oit didn't for me
I really hoped this would help and decrease dark spot, unforgettably it didn't. I used one jar, and didn't see any result, so I wasn't going to purchase it again, but the sales rep who helped me said it works better with Vitamin C Serum, so I bought both of them and tried for few weeks. Unforgettably it didn't work for me and my dark spots are still there...
Date published: 2020-07-31
Rated 1 out of
5
by
FunNSun from
Disappointed
I was looking forward to use & by reviews excited to see changes not for me i wouldn’t waste money just use plain Vit.C
Date published: 2020-07-29
Rated 3 out of
5
by
priyala from
dark spot corrector
You have to be consistent with this product if you want to see results. I loved the way it applied, the smell & consistency! I would definitely recommend this product to those who are looking for a dark spot corrector that applies well and doesnt leave a greasy feeling behind!
Date published: 2020-07-28
Rated 4 out of
5
by
alexjftz from
dark spots be gone
I recieved this product to review as part of a voxbox. It did fade some of the dark spots I have from acne, but also made me breakout. It has to be applied directly to the spots as opposed to more generally. I think preventing dark spots would be more helpful, especially since this product is somewhat expensive. A bottle will last for a quote though.
Date published: 2020-07-26
Rated 3 out of
5
by
alejandronjessica from
Good product
I love this product, but its expensive and I feel I need to order another bottle to finish the dark spot job.... I was hoping one bottle would be enough to tone down my dark spots enough for a while
Date published: 2020-07-24
Rated 5 out of
5
by
deysig905a from
love it
I been using it for a while I have seen an improvement on my skin easy to use and is perfect product
Date published: 2020-07-22
Rated 2 out of
5
by
patriciapickles from
ehhhh
I truly feel like this product did nothing for me. Its expensive and I didnt notice any changes in my skin from this. I would not ever buy this again. Just not for me
Date published: 2020-07-21
Rated 5 out of
5
by
mz_massie from
amazing!!
I absolutely loved this dark spot corrector. I had a quite a lot on my chin and and some on my right cheek. This did wonders on my chin were I had the most. Definitely recommend this product.
Date published: 2020-07-21
Rated 5 out of
5
by
aram from
gentle on the skin
I am always a fan of Vit C serums and everything that improves hyperpigmentation. This serum is non-irritating for my sensitive skin, it also does not give that Vit C tingle in the beginning. Most Vit C serums, at first try, give you that slight tingle on your face but improves overtime. This one did not. This serums texture is on the liquidy side so its easier to spread but is absorbed after massaging for few seconds. My skins texture improved, making it softer. It also visibly brightened my face- its fresh & glowy.
Date published: 2020-07-21
Rated 3 out of
5
by
carlyb40 from
Only had a sample
I really want to try this product for the long haul but the price has me hesitant. I liked the smell and consistency of the sample. I have newly acquired dark spots and would potentially purchase this product on a promotion so I felt more comfortable.
Date published: 2020-07-21
Rated 4 out of
5
by
tiffgomes203 from
good overall
I am going to be honest 100% thought this was going to suck but I feel in love with it. It had helped so much with my mask-ne. working in the hospital while wearing a mask all day really messed up my skin, but this product helps a lot with keeping the acne at bay as well as helping with the overall evenness of my skin tone . Took a star off because its not necessarily the end all be all for my dark marks
Date published: 2020-07-20
Rated 4 out of
5
by
goneglowy_ from
Ive been using this dark spot solution serum pretty consistently for about 2 months now, save for a few lazy nights I skip all skincare but can say that Ive used it enough to see a slight difference in my skin. The serum itself is very light weight and spreads easily in the skin but does sort of leave behind a slight tacky feeling (not a lot though and not bothersome to me).
I should start off by saying I am fair skinned with pretty ok skin for 38 years Id age give or take some small dark spots and moles that have appeared now with age and prior sun exposure. Ive noticed by using the serum my dark spots have lightened quite a bit and my skin actually appears brighter itself. Overall, I have been pretty happy with the results and will continue to use my serum bottle.
Date published: 2020-07-20
