This Dark-Spot Serum Faded My Hyperpigmentation in a Month

As a self-proclaimed skin-care devotee, I love trying out new products. As a result, I've wrecked my skin's barrier, causing breakouts and leaving behind stubborn, pesky dark spots — which are notoriously tough to get rid of. Although there are plenty of hyperpigmentation serums on the market, finding something gentle yet effective can be a challenge — especially if you want quick results.

I've been a fan of Dr. Shereene Idriss, formerly PillowTalkDerm on TikTok, and her advice helped me navigate my skin-care routine and streamline it to minimize irritation. I was eager to try out the Major Fade Hyper Serum ($68) from her namesake brand since it's packed with ingredients to fade dark spots yet is gentle and non-irritating on the skin.

Keep reading for my full review of the serum, with before and after pictures of my results.

As someone who's tested out plenty of dark-spot serums, this one is promising for those who lean more sensitive or break out due to a compromised skin barrier. It has a hydrating, creamy texture that sinks into the skin as you massage it. Consistency is key with this product, and its gentle formula slowly but surely helps brighten and correct discoloration.

In five weeks, you can clearly see how my skin looks significantly more even-toned, and my dark spots are lighter. Plus, there's an overall improvement in the luminosity and brightness of my skin, too. As I was using this serum, the rest of my regimen was pretty gentle and as a result, I wasn't breaking out and my skin became calmer overall. The best part? These results came after using just one full cartridge, so I have high hopes for my skin's improvement as I move on to the second cartridge.

You can use the Major Fade Hyper Serum twice a day, morning and night, on clean, dry skin. I use around three to four pumps of this serum all over my face, bringing any excess to my neck and chest. I follow it with a moisturizer, like the brand's Major Fade Active Seal Dark Spot Vitamin C Gel Moisturizer.

The Major Fade Hyper Serum comes with two cartridges, and each one should last up to four to five weeks with daily use. To insert the cartridge, line up the tab with the indent on the dispenser and press down. When it is properly in place and secure, you should hear a click. To dispense the product, turn the cartridge to the "on" position, which aligns it with the longer indent, and press down. When not in use, make sure the tab is aligned with the shorter indent in the off position. To replace the cartridge, just twist it to the on position and pull it out.

Because of the gentle nature of this serum, results will take time. If your skin can handle it, pair this serum with stronger treatments like exfoliating acids or retinol to speed up the process. I like pairing it with the brand's exfoliating Major Fade Dark Spot AHA Flash Mask, which contains a blend of AHAs and tranexamic acid to help expedite resurfacing. According to the brand, you can also use this serum alongside a topical prescription medication — just make sure your doctor approves of the combination.

The Dr. Idriss Major Fade Hyper Serum is available on the brand's site and Sephora.

Rating:
★★★★

Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.