If you’re battling dark spots, discoloration or hyperpigmentation, it’s time to rethink your routine. Dark spots can be stubborn. While a targeted dark spot formula like vc10 dark spot solution works on its own, layering or “stacking” it with the right supporting products can help amplify your results. 

Inspired by the success of our barrier stacking deep dive, this method is all about strategically layering brightening and exfoliating ingredients in the right order, with the right spacing, and always with barrier support. If you’re wondering about how to improve dark spots, this step-by-step routine can help improve hyperpigmentation faster and more effectively than using one treatment on its own.

What is dark spot stacking in skin care?

“Dark spot stacking is the practice of layering complementary ingredients that target hyperpigmentation, while keeping the skin barrier strong and supported,” says Beth Bialko, Bioelements Senior Director of Education. “Think of it like an expert, personalized skin care protocol that combines exfoliation, pigment suppression and barrier repair, all in a single, thoughtful routine.”

How do you layer skin care for hyperpigmentation?

To make it work, follow three golden rules:

Layer by pH
Start with your lowest-pH products (typically exfoliants like AHAs), and work your way up to neutral or higher-pH formulas like vitamin C and tranexamic acid.

Pause between layers
Give each product about a minute to absorb before moving on. This helps minimize interaction and lets each layer do its job.

Finish with barrier support
Always end with a formula that helps repair and protect the skin, especially when you’re using multiple actives.

Our expert-recommended spot stack for you

Here’s a suggested routine to help you build an effective stack after cleansing and toning.

Step 1: Exfoliate (Low pH)

Exfoliating first helps clear away surface cells and improves the absorption of everything that follows. Choose a formula that fits your skin’s current condition:

• Quick Refiner: For rough texture, dullness, clogged pores and/or sun damage, this leave-on gel AHA exfoliator targets pores, dullness and lines as it brightens the entire complexion.
  

• Peel Breaker: For acne-prone and oily skin types dealing with breakouts, flakiness, enlarged pores and/or texture, this leave-on liquid exfoliating treatment helps break up pore blockage oils + dead cells.

Let the exfoliant absorb for about a minute before moving on.

Step 2: Spot treat

Next, layer your higher pH pigment-correcting ingredients to help fade discoloration and promote a more even tone. This step should be applied only to targeted areas – not the entire face:

• VC10 Dark Spot Solution: Formulated with tranexamic acid, plus vitamin C and 3% niacinamide to help improve discoloration and correct the appearance of dark spots. 

Step 3: Incorporate vitamin C 

Next, incorporate vitamin C to visibly brighten, even skin tone and defend against free radical damage. The two formulas below are designed to work in synergy – one for morning, one for night:

• VC10 Daily Glow: For the AM; A glow-getting 10% vitamin C serum that helps brighten and protect with antioxidant support
  

• VC10 Nightly Bright: For the PM; This overnight sensation increases luminosity, evens tone + discoloration, targets pores, and helps support collagen.

Again, give a little breathing room between layers – about a minute each.

Step 4: Support your barrier 

Now that the hard work is done, your skin needs a layer that hydrates and reinforces the barrier. Choose a formula that fits your skin’s current condition:

• Barrier Fix Daily Hydrator: For sensitive skin types dealing with dehydration, redness + sensitivity, this clinical moisturizing treatment targets irritation and strengthens the barrier.
  

• Oxygen Boost Barrier Treatment: For acne-prone and sensitive skin types dealing with breakouts, clogged pores, dehydration, dullness and/or sensitivity, this supplemental barrier-repair treatment helps breathe air into the skin.
  

Why stacking works

Stacking this way lets each ingredient shine. Exfoliants clear the path, pigment-correcting actives get straight to the source, and barrier support ensures your skin stays calm and strong throughout. It’s a smarter, more effective way to tackle stubborn dark spots, without triggering irritation or overdoing it. The takeaway? Layer with intention and always finish with barrier care. 

FAQ

1. Cleanser
2. Exfoliant (low pH)
3. Targeted dark spot treatment (tranexamic acid, niacinamide)
4. Vitamin C serum
5. Barrier-repair moisturizer