How Do You Get an Even Skin Tone?

Whether it’s one dot or a large patch of hyperpigmentation, skin discoloration can be tricky to treat if you’re hoping to get an even skin tone. These dark spots can be caused by a wide range of factors from breakouts to sun damage—and determining how to even out skin tone often hinges on figuring out what’s causing the discoloration in the first place.

To get the scoop on what can cause an uneven skin tone and, more importantly, what you can do about it, we consulted the pros. Below, learn everything you need to know about managing an uneven skin tone and discover some of our favorite products to even out skin.

What Is Uneven Skin Tone?

Before we dive into the details, we thought it may be useful to break down exactly what we mean when we’re talking about uneven skin. While an even skin tone appears clear, bright, and uniform in color, an uneven skin tone may have discoloration in the form of individual dark spots or larger dark patches. The color of these spots (or patches) can range from person to person, and depends largely on how pigmented your skin is, as well as the cause of the discoloration. Generally speaking, though, the spots are typically tan to deep brown or gray. Unlike freckles or moles, discoloration isn’t usually permanent, though it can take a long time to resolve on its own. Thankfully, there are plenty of products that can help brighten uneven skin and help promote a clearer, more uniform complexion—more on that in a bit.

What Causes an Uneven Skin Tone?

Hyperpigmentation—or darkening of the skin—occurs when the cells that create your skin’s pigment go into overdrive and create too much melanin. This can be triggered by a range of factors, from certain skin conditions to hormonal fluctuations and more. According to dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. William Kwan (who is also the founder of Kwan Dermatology), the best way to create a plan for evening skin tone is to uncover what’s behind it. Here are some of the common causes that can contribute to an uneven skin tone:

• Skin Conditions: Active breakouts can lead to red marks, while healed blemishes can sometimes turn brown (these dark spots are commonly known as post-acne marks). But, according to Dr. Kwan, acne isn’t the only skin concern that can lead to uneven skin: eczema, dermatitis, and even razor burn can leave your skin looking uneven, as well.
• Sun Damage: As you may know, exposure to UV rays can lead to skin concerns that go beyond a temporary burn. According to a study published by Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, excessive UV exposure can lead to an array of visible skin concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots (sometimes referred to as sun spots).
• Irritation: Burns, scars, and bug bites can irritate the skin, and in some cases, lead to discoloration. This type of discoloration is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and is especially common among those with darker skin tones.
• Hormones: In some cases, hormonal fluctuations—like the kind that occurs with pregnancy—can trigger a type of skin discoloration called melasma. Unlike dark spots, which tend to be localized, melasma usually presents as large patches of discolored skin on the cheeks, forehead, or nose. These dark patches may become more pronounced with sun exposure—another great reason to wear SPF every day.
  
• Aging: It’s no secret that your skin changes as you get older. It may become less elastic, develop fine lines and wrinkles, or become less even in texture and tone.

How To Get an Even Skin Tone: 7 Tips To Try

If your uneven skin tone bothers you, there are things you can do to make it appear clearer and more even. Read on for the details.

1. Exfoliate with a scrub or peel

Exfoliating—either manually or chemically—helps remove dead surface skin cells to promote a clearer-looking complexion. If you prefer manual exfoliation, we recommend using a gentle scrub, such as the SkinCeuticals Micro Exfoliating Scrub. The mild formula helps purify pores and refines the skin, and it’s suitable for all skin types.

Adding an at-home chemical peel or acid-based treatment to your routine is another effective way to even out skin tone. Try the Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel Serum, which contains a cocktail of alpha-, beta-, and polyhydroxy acids and helps promote a smoother, more radiant complexion. Like the aforementioned scrub, this exfoliating treatment is suitable for all skin types and can be used daily.

2. Use a brightening toner

Dr. Kwan notes that brightening products can help fade the look of dark spots and even skin tone over time. Using a facial toner is a quick and easy way to add a brightening step to your skincare routine. Try the classic Thayers Rose Petal Facial Toner with Witch Hazel, which is non-drying and features a lovely blend of aloe vera, rose water, and witch hazel. The hydrating formula helps tone, balance, and soothe the skin, leaving it brighter-looking and more even with continued use.

3. Add a vitamin C serum to your routine

If you’re not already using a vitamin C serum in your skincare routine, now may be a good time to start. “When added to your daily routine, vitamin C provides a range of benefits, from evening out your skin tone to reducing pigmentation and shielding skin from the visible impacts of pollution,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank. If you’re ready to try this potent antioxidant, reach for SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF with Ferulic Acid. The vitamin C-infused serum specifically helps improve the appearance of discoloration to help promote a more even skin tone.

4. Try a retinol product

According to a study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging, products with retinol can help tackle the signs of photoaging, which includes discoloration. Make sure you introduce your skin to retinol in small amounts and low concentrations, and apply it right before bed in the evening. (If you’re unsure if retinol is right for you, check with a board-certified dermatologist).

A great starter retinol is the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol. The anti-aging formula helps brighten, moisturize, and refine the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and hydrated. If you’re new to retinol, we suggest starting with twice-weekly usage, increasing your frequency to nightly once your skin acclimates.

5. Wear SPF daily (seriously — no exceptions!)