Hi everyone! I’m 32 and live in Southern California. I have medium-tan skin with warm undertones, and I’ve been dealing with stubborn hyperpigmentation for years—leftover acne marks, sun spots from beach days, and melasma flare-ups that just don’t quit. I’ve tried what feels like every brightening serum out there, but most either irritated my skin or didn’t move the needle. When I saw Anua’s Dark Spot Correcting Serum with 10% niacinamide and 4% tranexamic acid, I thought: Okay, this might actually be strong enough to help, without wrecking my barrier.

Let me share my experience after six weeks of consistent use.

Texture & Application

This comes in a glass dropper bottle—nothing flashy but functional. The serum is slightly pink-toned, viscous but not sticky. A few drops spread easily and sink in fast without leaving any tack. I did feel a bit of a cooling tingle the first couple times I used it, but that totally faded within a minute. No burning or redness. I typically use it in the morning after cleansing and before moisturizer and SPF, and then again at night if I’m not retinoiding.

Immediate Impressions

The first week, my skin felt immediately smoother and looked more even-toned—no dramatic fading, but good morning-after radiance. My makeup blended more seamlessly too, no weird patches.

Longer‑Term Results (4–6 weeks)

Here’s where it got real. After three weeks, I noticed the dark spot left from an old cystic pimple was visibly lighter. The sun spots on my temples? Softened. After six weeks, those marks were significantly faded—still visible on close inspection, but they definitely lost their intensity. My skin tone looked more even and less blotchy

Hydration & Barrier Effects

Niacinamide typically dries me out or pills under my sunscreen. But with this formula, zero issues. My skin barrier actually felt calmer. I switched to a richer night cream since I wasn’t overexfoliating, and the serum layered well. No pilling, no sensitivity, nothing.

Side Effects?

Absolutely none. Not a single red patch, breakout, or purge. My skin tone is a bit uneven around my jaw (hormonal) and I was nervous about that area, but it stayed calm throughout.

Price & Sensibility

It’s not cheap—mid‑tier price—but considering the active concentrations, I feel it’s worth it. Compare that to your regular 5% niacinamide serum that does nothing, and the value becomes clearer. I plan to repurchase once this runs out.

Real Tips After 6 Weeks

Always patch test first. I used it every other day for the first week to check tolerance.

Pair with gentle SPF every morning. TXA helps fade spots but can make them more photo‑sensitive.

Don’t expect overnight miracles. Be consistent and patient.

Avoid layering with strong acids on the same night, just in case.

My Take

If you’ve got stubborn melasma, sun spots, or post-acne discoloration and you’ve been disappointed by other niacinamide products, this one’s worth a shot. It’s gentle, it visibly brightened my face within a month, and didn’t wreck my moisture barrier. I’ve already recommended it to a few friends who have similar stubborn spots.

Hope this helps someone out there—happy to answer questions or hear about your favorite spot-fading products too!