For so many of us, dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, can really cause us some grief. There’s nothing like opening a magazine or even sitting across the table for your best girlfriend at lunch and getting skin envy. You know what we’re talking about, that terrible nagging feeling that makes you wonder–despite all 50 skincare products on your counter–why can’t I have even, smooth skin across my entire face?? We understand, and we’re here to help.
As a quick refresher, hyperpigmentation is a very common skin occurrence that is often seen on individuals with more melanin in the skin. To put it simply, it’s really just an overreaction of melanin. That’s right, the very thing that protects us from the sun can also produce itself in excessive amounts, leading to patches or spots of skin that are darker than the rest of your face.
Hyperpigmentation typically can be caused by skin inflammation and injury to the skin (hint hint, those acne flare-ups), but the most common culprit is something that most people with darker skin tones don’t see as a threat: the sun. “Hyperpigmentation is usually caused by overexposure to the sun, and can leave unwanted dark spots on your skin. Using a brightener daily can help to lighten the skin and leave behind a natural glow,” says noted dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel.
While hyperpigmentation is completely harmless to you physically, we can’t say the same for your confidence. There are tons of products on the marketplace designed to aid you in eliminating dark spots. We’ve talked about the benefits of products that brighten the skin versus lightening it, and which is best for tackling dark spots and overall skin clarity. Now it’s time to dig a little deeper.
Do you know what ingredients you’re looking for when it comes to ridding yourself of those annoying spots and patches of skin? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! The following is a list of helpful ingredients you should look for when tackling hyperpigmentation. We use these very ingredients in our own products to achieve the optimal combination and potency so you can feel the best in your skin. Let’s take a look!
Apple Fruit Extract delivers powerful natural acids to help brighten the skin and exfoliate for improved smoothness. This is an excellent ingredient to look for it you desire a natural way to brighten your skin.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps skin retain moisture, reduces inflammation, and fades the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation. It’s a staple for any good brightening product.
When coupled with Acetyl Glycosamine (NAG), Niacinamide’s brightening power increases exponentially. NAG actually promotes the synthesis of collagen, which is responsible for the elasticity, smoothness, and plumpness of skin. It can be metabolized into hyaluronic acid to increase the skin’s water moisture. Remember, we’re scientists! So each ingredient combination is intentional and beneficial to ethnic skin.
Dong Quai reduces the synthesis of melanin to diminish the appearance of dark marks. It also promotes skin healing by encouraging collagen production, which helps your skin to return to its former glory.
Vitamin E fights free radicals to protect the skin from damage. It supports cellular repair, provides hydration, and is a natural anti-inflammatory that calms the skin and reduces redness. By infusing vitamin E into your skincare routine, you can prevent the damage that causes dark spots in the first place.
Rosa Damascena Flower Oil purifies the complexion and reduces redness and puffiness due to its strong anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It nourishes the skin, making it appear brighter and more luminous, so you can have glowy skin without the wait.
Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, a natural extract derived from Turmeric roots, gently reduces melanin production to fade the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. This is one of the most direct and effective ingredients you’ll find–and it’s a completely natural element!
Check out our Rapid Brightening Serum, which includes these ingredients and produces fantastic results for those looking to fade dark spots and brighten their skin. Knowing what goes into your products makes you empowered and leads to better results. Happy brightening!