I love an Aussie Summer but I can do without the sun damage that it brings with it!
This is the time that our sunspots can get darker and new ones magically start to appear. With the increase in sun exposure throughout this time, we have some tips and tricks that you can implement to lessen pigmentation changes this Summer.
A Brighteing Serum will target the melanin process in the skin and control the production of melanin. Ingredients such as Vitamin C is a natural skin brightener that reduces melanin formation in the skin. Niacinamide in percentages over 5% is also a natural skin brightener along with fantastic anti-inflammatory benefits. Licorice also has anti-inflammatory properties. Glabridin, an active ingredient in Licorice root, has shown to possesses anti-inflammatory effects and inhibits tyrosinase, a key enzyme that is responsible for making the pigmentation. Liquiritin is another active ingredient, which does not inhibit tyrosinase but it helps to disperse and remove melanin and pigments in the skin.
Vitamin A has many benefits particularly for anti-ageing, but it also fades hyperpigmentation and increases cellular renewal. That means the world gets to see your lovely fresh skin cells much quicker than without Retinol or Retinaldehyde. Make sure you wear a good mineral SPF when you use Vitamin A as it will make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
See some of my favourite Skin Brightening Serums below:
If your skin loves AHA’s (fruit acids) then this is the product for you. Simply Brilliant is a Cosmedix Brightening Serum that contains 10 skin brighteners such as Ascorbic Acid, Niacinamide Bellis Pinennis (Daisy) Flower Extract. It has a gentle exfoliating effect on the skin. Use once a day after cleansing, 1 pump is all you need. Contains Salicylic Acid so you should steer clear of this one if pregnant or lactating.
I love this one, it contains a combo of fabulous AHA’s such as lactic, glycolic, malic, and tartaric acid. This is a potent skin lightener for sunspots and uneven skin tone. Licorice and Bearberry tackle pigment head-on, whilst hyaluronic acid keeps the skin soft and hydrated. Vitamin C packs a punch of antioxidants and skin brightening qualities. Can use this one if pregnant or lactating.
PCA Skin Intensive Brightening Treatment
This one combines brightening ingredients with Retinol. 0.5% Retinol encourages cellular turnover, tackles fine lines and wrinkles. Hexylresorcinol promotes an even skin tone and reduces inflammation that can lead to discoloration. Niacinamide is a calming brightening antioxidant that reduces excel oil production in the skin. You only need a small amount and we encourage you to moisturise after application. Due to the Retinol, this one shouldn’t be used if pregnant or lactating.
This is an AHA free brightening serum that can be used AM and PM. 17% Niacinamide tackles pigmentation as well as 5% oil-soluble Vitamin C. I specifically created this serum to tackle my pigmentation when I was pregnant with my second child. I wanted something that I could use morning and night that would also strengthen my skin and provide skin proteins for anti-ageing benefits. For stubborn pigmentation, I recommend using IQ Serum in the morning and a Vitamin A product in the evening.
Bathed in an antioxidant formula to calm the skin, Pigment Punch+ is suitable for all skin types even the most sensitive. Targets pigmentation concerns, including age spots, scarring, and uneven skin tone. Safe throughout pregnancy or when lactating, this serum will leave your skin looking brighter, clearer, with a youthful, luminous glow.
Webential