As if pimples weren’t bad enough, we can get stuck with acne marks – those stubborn dark spots that take months to disappear. But you don’t have to wait that long. These fast-acting serums for dark spots can help banish those blemishes in half the time. Some women even say see a difference in just one week!

Serums for Dark Spots: Under $30 

Hada Labo Arbutin Whitening Lotion

It contains arbutin, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid – three brightening ingredients that fade blemishes and even out your skin tone.

The arbutin is a gentler alternative to hydroquinine, so try this if your skin’s dry and sensitive from acne treatments. And your skin will feel much softer and smoother because of the hyaluronic acid. “I like this a lot better than some of the more expensive serums I’ve tried!” says Pat, 32.  

Price: $18.00

Where to buy: Shopee

CosRX Mela 14 White Ampoule

This is one of the most popular Korean serums for dark spots. It has AHA, BHA, Vitamin C, and apple extracts. These all help lighten acne marks and even limit your melanin production. It may take a few weeks to see results, but you’ll definitely see your skin become brighter and more even.

Price: $24.90

Where to buy: Shopee

Dear Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop

Maila, 26, says her skin is too sensitive for retinol and skin acids like AHA and BHA This is one of the few serums for dark spots that don’t irritate her skin. It has a milder Vitamin C formula, plus broccoli and yuzu extracts that calm and strengthen skin.  

Price: $28.90

Where to buy: Guardian

Serums for Dark Spots: $30 to $50

CNP Laboratory Ferulic Actimune Ampule

CNP Laboratory Ferulic Actimune Ampule is expertly formulated with nourishing and hydrating ingredients including ferulic acid, vitamin B, C and E. It has an absorbing formula that penetrates deeply into the layers of the skin, leaving you with a radiant-looking complexion. With its top-notch formulation, this highly loved product helps to improve overall skin conditions by tackling blemishes, rough texture and signs of ageing. Additionally, it is super gentle yet effective making it suitable for all skin types.

Price: $48.90

Where to buy: CNP Laboratory official store

The Body Shop Drops of Light Brightening Serum

 “My skin is clear…and glowing!” says Anne, who loves this lightweight and non-sticky serum. Aside from treating dark spots, her pores look smaller and her skin is noticeably softer and radiant. “I have combination skin where I get pimples on my oily forehead, but the rest of my face is dry and dull. This is the serum that fixes everything!”

Price: $45.00

Where to buy: Shopee

Origins Spot Remover Acne Treatment Gel

If you have acne-prone skin, get this! It heals pimples, prevents breakouts, then fades the scars. Just apply one dot of this on the pimple: the caffeine and red algae will make it less red and inflamed, and then either prevent or lighten the acne marks.  

Price: $35.00

Where to buy: Sephora

Serums for Dark Spots: $50 to $100

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum

Confession: we always include this serum in  our best beauty products lists, because frankly – the results speak for themselves! This has gotten hundreds of five-star beauty reviews, and is a clear favourite even in forums. It contains Vitamin C, which helps fade blemishes and control melanin synthesis. “After just three weeks of using this, even my oldest and darkest acne scars were fading! My skin also looks brighter. In my opinion, this is the best serum ever!” says Catie.

Price: $94.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s official store

 Skin Inc Chlorella Serum

This popular serum has no parabens and fragrances, and uses premium plant extracts to fight dark spots and skin dullness. According to Sephora Singapore beauty reviews, it’s very hydrating and is gentle enough to be used even around the eyes. “This is amazing! It lightens my acne scars slightly and also hydrates significantly. I am especially in love with the texture – light, non-sticky and absorbs easily,” says Teal.

Price: $68.00

Where to buy: Sephora

Serums for Dark Spots: $100 to $150

Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum

This serum isn’t cheap, but it’s a multi-tasker. It has Vitamin C, ferulic acid and Vitamin E – which all work together to fade spots and fine lines, strengthen your skin barrier, and protect your skin from pollution and stress.

Price: $110.00

Where to buy: Sephora

 Clinique Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter

Blemish begone! This serumtakes a two-pronged approach to fighting dark spots. It combines a serum to fade dark spots, and a soothing optimizer to soothe irritation and redness. The cool bottle dispenses the two formulas in just the right amount each time you pump.

Price: $115.00

Where to buy: Sephora

Serums for Dark Spots: $150 above

Infinity Kose Perfective White

If you’re a fan of Japanese skincare, then try Infinity Kose Perfective White. It contains kojic acid, which is actually derived from rice and one of the best ingredients for fair, even skin.

“This serum was able to fade some acne marks I’ve had for years!” gushes Melanie, 37. And even if this is a powerful serum, it’s not irritating – it contains soothing ingredients that will even fight redness. “My skin has never looked better.”

Price: $153.00

Where to buy: Kose official store

Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening Spot Serum

This is one of the best serums if you’ve got acne marks and big pores. It contains niacinamide, which not only fights discolouration but strengthens your skin. Your pores look smaller, and your skin looks plumper.  Another winner ingredient: white ginseng extract, for brighter skin!

Price: $268.00

Where to buy: Sulwhasoo official store

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Acid

This is certainly a premium dark spot serum, but many women feel that $248 is money well spent. Aside from fading dark spots, ir can help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “My skin looks more even and more healthy. For me, this is one of the best skin products I’ve ever bought. It’s helped me with my adult acne and with anti-ageing,” says one Singapore beauty review.

Price: $248.00

Where to buy:  SkinCeuticals official store