Dark spots and uneven skin tone are among the hardest concerns to tackle — not because skin can't renew itself, but because many products keep their actives at token concentrations. This serum from Korean Essence combines 10% niacinamide with 4% tranexamic acid, a well-known pairing for the look of dark spots and uneven tone. Ceramide NP supports the skin barrier and sodium hyaluronate delivers deep hydration so skin doesn't dry out. The result is skin that looks visibly more even, brighter and more radiant — without a heavy or sticky feel.
- ✨ 10% Niacinamide
- 👍 Tranexamic Acid + Ceramides
- 🔄 Perfect for everyday use
Dark Spot Serum 10% Niacinamide + 4% Tranexamic Acid — for a visibly more even-looking skin tone
What the serum does for your skin:
- Helps reduce the look of dark spots and sun-related discolouration
- 10% niacinamide for a visibly more even skin tone
- 4% tranexamic acid, a well-known brightening partner to niacinamide
- Supports the skin barrier with ceramide NP
- Hydrates deeply with sodium hyaluronate without feeling heavy
- Fragrance-free formula designed for daily use, including on sensitive skin
Niacinamide
A vitamin B3 widely used for a visibly more even, brighter-looking skin tone.
Tranexamic Acid
A brightening active included for the look of existing dark spots and uneven tone.
Ceramide NP
Supports the skin's natural protective barrier and helps maintain moisture balance.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Delivers and holds moisture in the skin for an all-day comfortable, soft feel.
Panthenol
Calms and restores the skin and reduces the risk of irritation from active ingredients.
Allantoin
Softens and evens out skin texture for a smoother, more uniform surface.
A serum with 10% niacinamide and 4% tranexamic acid, formulated for the look of dark spots and a visibly more even skin tone. Here's what's in it:
- 10% niacinamide — a generous concentration for a brightening serum
- 4% tranexamic acid alongside it
- Sodium hyaluronate and ceramide NP for hydration and barrier support
- Fragrance-free, lightweight formula for morning and night
EFFECTIVE BRIGHTENING
Why concentration is everything when it comes to dark spots
Many brightening products keep their actives at concentrations too low to notice. Korean Essence Dark Spot Serum is formulated with 10% niacinamide and 4% tranexamic acid, two of the most widely used ingredients for the look of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Niacinamide is known for helping skin tone look more even, while tranexamic acid is a popular brightening partner to it. Together they give you two well-matched actives in one step. Ceramide NP supports the skin barrier and sodium hyaluronate keeps skin comfortable and hydrated so it doesn't dry out.

Every ingredient has a purpose
Formulated around niacinamide and tranexamic acid, alongside ceramide NP, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol and allantoin, for skin that's hydrated, protected and visibly brighter day by day.
The formula's primary brightening ingredient, widely used for a more even-looking skin tone.
Benefits
- Delivers a visibly more even skin tone
- Helps skin tone look more even
- Works alongside tranexamic acid
A brightening active included for the look of existing dark spots and uneven tone.
Benefits
- Reduces existing dark spots
- For the look of dark spots
- Complements niacinamide in the formula
Supports the skin's natural protective barrier and helps maintain moisture balance.
Benefits
- Strengthens the skin barrier
- Maintains natural moisture balance
- Suits all skin types
Delivers and holds moisture in the skin for an all-day comfortable, soft feel.
Benefits
- Delivers deep hydration
- Counters a dry or tight feel
- Long-lasting hydration
Calms and restores the skin and reduces the risk of irritation when using active ingredients.
Benefits
- Calms irritated skin
- Supports skin recovery
- Suits sensitive skin
Softens and evens out skin texture for a smoother, more uniform surface.
Benefits
- Evens out skin texture
- Softer, smoother skin
- Complements panthenol
FAQs
Everything you need to know before starting your routine with this serum from Korean Essence.
Results vary between individuals. Consistent daily use is recommended for best results — the look of dark spots takes longer to change than general brightness, so give it time.
Yes. The formula is fragrance-free and designed for most skin types, including sensitive skin. We recommend starting with one application a day and building up to morning and night as your skin adjusts.
Absolutely. Apply the serum as one of the first steps in your routine, let it absorb for 1 to 2 minutes, then layer moisturiser and sunscreen over the top.
Yes. The two ingredients are a common pairing in brightening skincare and complement each other, which is why the formula uses both.
Yes. The serum is formulated for daily use, morning and night. In the morning we recommend always finishing with sunscreen over the top to protect your skin and preserve your results.
Yes. The formula is fragrance-free and lightweight, and designed for all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin.
Apply 3 to 4 drops to cleansed, dried skin. Massage gently into the skin using light upward motions until fully absorbed. Follow with moisturiser and sunscreen in the morning.
Niacinamide pairs well with most ingredients. We recommend not combining it with strong acids like AHA/BHA or retinol at the same time — use them at different points in the day or week instead.