Products That Remove Skin Discoloration

Skin discolorations may arise from a variety of causes, such as acne or exposure to the sun. Exfoliation is an effective method of removing such skin discoloration, reports skincare expert Paula Begoun, because it gets rid of the discolored, damaged skin cells on the surface of the skin. For the best results, choose an exfoliating product that's been recommended by beauty experts.

Philosophy Microdelivery Multi-Peel Pads

Philosophy Microdelivery Multi-Peel Pads come recommended by Marie Claire magazine, which said they were gentle enough for sensitive skin while also being "instantly effective." Each pad has a textured surface to help lift away oil and dirt, while lactic acid--an alpha hydroxy acid that removes the top surface of your skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center--chemically exfoliates your skin. Philosophy also adds beneficial skin conditioners, like soy extract and tea extract, which may help prevent new skin damage that may lead to additional skin discolorations.

Neutrogena Advanced Solutions at Home MicroDermabrasion System

Neutrogena's exfoliating kit includes a battery-powered device that vibrates to massage your skin with a cream formulated with aluminum oxide. This is the same active ingredient used in professionally applied exfoliating treatments, like those done in spas, reports Begoun. She says the end result will leave your skin feeling "softer and smoother" as it gets rid of the pigmented surface skin cells.

Clinique Exfoliating Scrub

The beauty editors of InStyle magazine chose Clinique Exfoliating Scrub as one of the best exfoliators for dry skin. Dr. Francesca Fusco, a dermatologist reviewing the exfoliating treatment for the magazine, said its exfoliating beads help to gently loosen dead skin cells without damaging your skin's surface. This is unlike other facial scrubs that contain products like ground apricot kernel, which can create minute scratches in your skin. Such damage may actually create new discoloration, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Olay Body Wash Plus Spa Exfoliating Ribbons

Marie Claire magazine suggests trying Olay Body Wash Plus Spa Exfoliating Ribbons, naming it a skincare essential and saying it's "an overachiever" for your shower. As its name implies, each bottle of the body wash includes a swirl of exfoliating micro-beads and citric acid that gently slough off dead skin. As it cleanses and exfoliates your skin to lighten pigmentation, it also moisturizes with emollients to avoid over-drying your skin.