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All Your Q’s About Our Dark Spot Gel, Answered

Dark spots, known to use the alias ‘hyperpigmentation’ or ‘post-acne marks’, have gone missing. The prime suspect? Our Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel, a stay-in-place formula that helps fade evidence of discoloration. Formulated with a concentrated, safe cocktail of brightening ingredients, Out of Sight has undergone a consumer perception trial and been tested by dermatologists with proven results for a more even tone and less visible discoloration.

So how does it work? What can I layer it with? Is it safe for all skin tones? Out of Sight is ready to be interrogated so you can say case closed to hyperpigmentation. Read on as we answer all your questions about our Dark Spot Gel. Have more? Shoot us an email.


Q: How does it work?
A: Think of Out of Sight as a spot treatment but for hyperpigmentation instead of pimples. Its precision applicator targets specific areas of discoloration to help fade dark spots and even out tone over time. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which keep the skin’s moisture barrier strong to fend off future damage.

Q: What are the ingredients?
A: You’ll find several scientifically backed ingredients for dullness in this formula. 2% tranexamic acid, derived from amino acids, impedes melanin production to prevent dark spots from forming. It’s so effective, dermatologists often use this ingredient to treat the most stubborn form of hyperpigmentation: melasma. If you’re a fan of Weekend Glow, you may recognize the 1% of kojic acid on the ingredient list, too. It’s an exfoliating acid derived from mushrooms that gently dissolves dull, discolored skin cells. We added in some other skin favorites, including 5% anti-inflammatory niacinamide and 1% brightening licorice root extract, too. 

A clinical study conducted on the combination of 3% tranexamic acid, 1% kojic acid, and 5% niacinamide showed a “significant improvement in the appearance of PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin texture, and skin tone homogeneity was observed beginning at week 2 and continued through week 12."

Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel
Q: Will this treat my melasma?
A: While we didn't ask our trial participants about melasma improvements, the clinical study mentioned above tested on melasma and showed an improvement when using a combination of tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and kojic acid. Melasma is the hardest form of hyperpigmentation to treat, so our best advice is to be consistent with twice-daily use and stick with it for at least 8 weeks.

Q: Does this product contain hydroquinone?
A: No. Hydroquinone, found in many bleaching creams and skin-lightening products, has earned a permanent spot on our ingredient no-list. Besides the fact that it has been linked to organ-system toxicity, allergic reactions, and cancer, it’s known to have adverse effects (think burning and irritation) on darker skin tones. We only formulate using safe, effective ingredients for all complexions. Out of Sight’s consumer perception trial was performed on a wide variety of skin types, tones, ethnicities, and ages.

Q: How long until I see results?
A: Everyone's skin is different, but it typically takes about 1-2 months to see an improvement in dark spots (remember: skin cells turnover approximately every 28 days). It’s important to apply the Dark Spot Gel consistently—we recommend both morning and night—and to follow up with daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, such as Guards Up, to prevent new spots from forming.

During our consumer perception trial, testers applied Out of Sight over an eight-week period. These were the results:

85% agree the product minimizes the appearance of dark spots.
82% agree dark spots appeared lighter and smaller after using the product.
79% agree the areas of application appear brighter.
70% agree the product corrects uneven-looking skin tone.

Q: Can Out of Sight be layered with exfoliants and retinol?
A: It can. Our Dark Spot Gel fits nicely within any brightening routine. We recommend layering Out of Sight along with Stroke of Brilliance or Press Restart. For even better results, incorporate our Instant Resurfacing Mask once a week, too. 

Q: Is it sticky?
A: Its stay-in-place formula can feel slightly tacky at first. This is intentional; it allows the ingredients to stay put until the formula is fully absorbed, fighting discoloration all day and night. After a few minutes, you won’t even notice it. 

Q: Does Out of Sight treat dark circles?
A: Our Dark Spot Gel is specifically designed for hyperpigmentation and shouldn’t be applied on the undereyes. If you have dark circles, try our Vacation Eyes Brightening Eye Gel instead. 


Q: I have sensitive skin. Can I use it?
A: If you have sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions, we'd suggest performing a patch test before using this or any other brightening treatments. 

Q: Will it lighten my freckles?
A: While freckles can decrease in size just like other hyperpigmentation, the trickier part of fading freckles is time. Most freckles have been with you since a very young age so that form of hyperpigmentation runs deep—fading them will likely take more time than treating more recent skin discoloration.

Q: Will it pill under my sunscreen?
A: No, not at all. Because our formula leaves an undetectable layer on the skin, it won't pill under SPF or makeup.

Shop Out of Sight and other skin favorites for dullness below.