The Ordinary for Dark Spots and Pigmentation: What to Use in Pakistan

Dark spots, uneven tone and marks left behind by acne are among the most common skin concerns in Pakistan. Strong sun for most of the year makes them darker and slower to fade. The Ordinary has several affordable serums that target pigmentation, and this guide explains which ones to choose and how to use them safely.

First: sunscreen comes before any serum

No brightening serum can keep up with daily sun exposure. UV light triggers more pigment, so spots that are fading can darken again within days. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, including on cloudy days and indoors near windows, and reapply if you’re outside. The Ordinary Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen is a good option. Without this step, the serums below won’t give you the results you want.

The best The Ordinary serums for dark spots

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA is one of the most popular choices for dark spots and uneven tone. Alpha Arbutin helps reduce the look of pigmentation, and it’s gentle enough for most skin types. Use it morning and/or evening, before creams.

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is a good fit if you have both pigmentation and breakouts or redness. It brightens, helps even out tone and supports clearer-looking skin. The texture is a light cream, and it can feel slightly tingly at first. Use it morning or evening.

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% helps with blotchiness and uneven tone, and it also helps with oil and visible pores. It’s a good all-rounder if your skin is oily or combination.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps brighten dull skin and supports a more even tone. If you’re new to it, The Ordinary Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15% Solution or The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% are good starting points. For experienced users, The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% is a high-strength option. Use Vitamin C in the morning under sunscreen, and don’t use pure Vitamin C in the same routine as Niacinamide.

Exfoliating acids

Gentle exfoliation helps fade marks by removing dull surface cells. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA and The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA are gentle options, used 2–3 evenings a week. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is a little stronger.

Retinoids

Retinoids speed up skin renewal, which helps marks fade over time. Start with The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Squalane or The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane, two or three nights a week. Retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy.

Sample routine for dark spots

Morning

1. Gentle cleanser, such as The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser (50 ml)
2. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
3. Moisturiser
4. Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

Evening

1. Cleanser
2. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
3. 2–3 nights a week: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA (not on retinoid nights)
4. Moisturiser

Once your skin is comfortable, you can add a retinoid on the nights you’re not using an acid.

How long does it take?

Be patient. Most people start noticing a difference after about 8–12 weeks of consistent use and daily sunscreen. Deeper or long-standing pigmentation, including melasma, can take longer. If your pigmentation is spreading, changes suddenly, or doesn’t respond to skincare, please see a dermatologist.

Common mistakes

• Skipping sunscreen. This is the most common reason serums don’t work.
• Using too many actives at once. Irritation can actually cause more pigmentation, especially on deeper skin tones.
• Over-exfoliating. Stick to 2–3 acid nights a week.
• Picking at spots. This leaves longer-lasting marks.
• Giving up too early. Give each product at least 8 weeks.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better for dark spots, Alpha Arbutin or Niacinamide?

Alpha Arbutin is more focused on dark spots, while Niacinamide is a broader option that also helps with oil and pores. Many people use both in the same routine.

Can I use Alpha Arbutin and Azelaic Acid together?

Yes. Apply the Alpha Arbutin first, then the Azelaic Acid.

Is The Ordinary good for acne marks?

Yes. Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin and gentle acids are all good options for the brown or red marks left behind by acne.

Find your routine

Try our Regimen Builder to get a routine for pigmentation that suits your skin type. Every product we sell is imported and sealed, with Cash on Delivery and flat Rs 200 delivery across Pakistan.