I brought this product because I got tired of mashing my own aloe vera every might to use as a face cream and it turning pink by the next night. This cream is a wonder, it helps my face stay nice, refreshed and keeps down the acne. I use it every night before bed. I wash my face and put it on and then wash it off in the morning. It hasn't helped much in removing dark spots but it definitely helps with the smoothness on my face. If any acne pops up, putting this on overnight helps to bring it down by the next morning.