Retinoids (often commonly referred to as retinols) are compounds of vitamin A. Retinoids prevent dead cells from clogging pores, stimulate red blood cell production, and enhance collagen production. In 2016, the Food and Drug Administration approved retinoid acne treatment for over-the-counter use, making this powerful compound easily accessible. One of our current favorite retinoids is the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Mask, $49.

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Many of the aforementioned products will increase your skin's sun sensitivity, so be sure to lather on some extra sunscreen! Not only does sunscreen protect your skin from burning, harmful UV rays, and premature aging, it will also stop your dark spots from getting, well, darker. We recommend the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen, $34, for the job: It's weightless and layers super well under makeup.

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