What's Up, Doc?

If you're considering an in-office treatment, these are the ones dermatologists deem most effective.

Lasers for dark spots and uneven skin tone

Nonablative resurfacing lasers, like Clear + Brilliant and LaseMD, target melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with minimal downtime, says NYC dermatologist Daniel Belkin, MD. Skin feels sandpapery for a few days post-procedure, and then looks brighter and more even. For sun spots, mild sun damage, and uneven skin texture, Belkin often turns to the PicoSure: "This picosecond laser can offer more robust and long-term tone improvement." A step up from that, Fraxel or Halo lasers leave you with a week of scaly skin, "but can even out the complexion significantly," Belkin says. Fraxel can also reduce precancerous cells: "After 50, the percentage of nonmelanoma skin cancers increases exponentially each year, so at that point l think of it like a teeth cleaning; it's a smart health measure," Shamban says. Note that if you're prone to melasma, hyperpigmentation, or have dark skin, it's important to go to a dermatologist with expertise in these areas.

Chemical Peels for acne, dullness, and dark spots