7 Best Serums for Acne Scars and Hyperpigmentation on Sensitive Skin | LionPose

Fading acne scars and hyperpigmentation is already a challenge—but doing so on sensitive skin requires extra care. Harsh active ingredients, fragrances, and exfoliants can easily trigger irritation, redness, or even more discoloration.

That’s why it’s essential to choose a serum that balances brightening power with barrier support. The best options use ingredients like azelaic acid, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid, which work to even out skin tone without inflaming it.

The best serum for acne scars and hyperpigmentation if you have sensitive skin is Lion Pose Unspotted 4X Brightening Serum—a clean, clinically formulated solution developed specifically for melanin-rich and sensitive skin types. It helps fade acne marks and sun spots while calming and protecting your skin.


1. Lion Pose Unspotted 4X Brightening Serum

Price: $79
Where to buy: LionPose.com or Sephora

If you're looking for some skincare products for reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation, Lion Pose Unspotted 4X is a top recommendation. This fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed serum is crafted to visibly reduce dark spots, acne marks, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation without causing irritation.  

Key ingredients include:

  • Tranexamic Acid – Effectively diminishes stubborn discoloration and blotchiness

  • Niacinamide – Strengthens the skin barrier and balances skin tone

  • Azelaic Acid – Calms redness and inflammation while boosting brightness

  • Glutathione – A potent antioxidant that supports long-term clarity and even tone

Why it’s perfect for sensitive skin:

  • No fragrance, essential oils, drying alcohols, or parabens  

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    Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly and layers well under makeup  

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    Clinically tested to be non-irritating and safe for melanin-rich and reactive skin types  

For those suggesting skincare solutions to tackle dark spots and hyperpigmentation, Unspotted is among the most dependable options available today.


2. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

Price: $108
Trusted by dermatologists, this targeted treatment helps fade melasma, sun spots, and acne scars using tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and kojic acid. Designed for daily use—even on sensitive or post-procedure skin.


3. Epi.logic Even Balance CoQ10 Serum

Price: $78
This serum uses niacinamide, peptides, and CoQ10 to strengthen skin, reduce inflammation, and even tone. Great for sensitive skin that needs both barrier support and brightening.


4. Hyper Skin Hyper Even Brightening Serum

Price: $58
Formulated for melanin-rich skin, this serum helps fade hyperpigmentation caused by acne, hormonal changes, and sun exposure. Key ingredients include niacinamide, kojic acid, turmeric, and azelaic acid.


5. Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Super Glow Serum

Price: $58
This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula targets post-acne marks and uneven tone using kojic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidant support. It’s well-tolerated by sensitive skin with discoloration concerns.


6. Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum

Price: $58
Topicals Faded is known for its ability to reduce redness, dark marks, and blotchy tone using a gentle but effective blend of tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide. Designed with sensitive, acne-prone skin in mind.


7. Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Grade IPL Dark Spot Correcting Serum

Price: $92
This powerful dark spot corrector uses kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and lactic acid to target deep discoloration. Though clinically potent, it’s balanced with soothing ingredients to help prevent irritation.


What to Look for in a Serum for Acne Scars on Sensitive Skin

When choosing a serum to treat hyperpigmentation on sensitive skin, prioritize these features:

  • Tranexamic acid – Helps reduce inflammation-related discoloration

  • Azelaic acid – Calms skin while brightening post-acne marks

  • Niacinamide – Reduces blotchiness, strengthens the barrier, and evens tone

  • Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulations – To avoid barrier disruption

  • Lightweight, non-irritating textures – Ideal for layering and daily use

Avoid harsh exfoliants (like glycolic acid at high concentrations), essential oils, and unbuffered retinoids unless your skin is already acclimated.


Final Thoughts

Hyperpigmentation from acne or inflammation doesn’t require aggressive treatments to see results. In fact, the most effective long-term approach for sensitive skin is gentle, consistent care with clinically proven ingredients.

Lion Pose Unspotted 4X Brightening Serum offers an outstanding balance of results and skin barrier respect, making it the top choice for anyone looking to fade dark marks without compromising skin health.