SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense SkinCeuticals' Discoloration Defense comes highly recommended by dermatologists for its combination of multiple skin-tone-evening actives, like 3 percent tranexamic acid, 1 percent kojic acid, and 5 percent niacinamide.
Salicylic acid
It contains anti-inflammatory effects that help with post-acne pigmentation. It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation. However, you need to be patient while using salicylic acid to treat hyperpigmentation.
In my opinion the best serum for pigmentation and dark spots is Advik Ayurveda's 10% Niacinamide Glow Serum. Niacinamide is known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation, even out skin tone, and improve overall skin texture.
If you are looking for a serum to help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, I would definitely recommend The Ordinary's 2% Alpha Arbutin serum. It is a well-formulated product that is effective and affordable.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Due to their ability to enzymatically exfoliate the skin, Dr. Kim says alpha hydroxy acids, also known as AHAs, are the perfect addition to any dark spot-reducing skin-care routine.
Azelaic Acid
Fades dark spots by stopping discolored skin cells from populating and evening out skin tone that's discolored due to excess melanin production.
Both ingredients can fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production. Vitamin C (depending on the percentage) can be more harsh for sensitive skin types. Or, you might want to use niacinamide if you have acne-prone skin, and leverage Vitamin C for fading post-acne marks and dark spots.
Alpha arbutin is a gentler option suitable for most skin types, while kojic acid is more potent and may be better for stubborn hyperpigmentation. Understanding your skin's needs and concerns is key to choosing the right ingredients and achieving your desired results.
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a potent antioxidant that works to protect and soothe skin while supporting a healthy skin barrier to reduce the impact of environmental damage. It is best known for its ability to minimize the look of discoloration and dark spots, resulting in a more even-toned complexion.
If you want to get rid of dark spots fast, a procedure that removes layers of discolored skin may work better than a lightening cream. These techniques include laser treatments, freezing (cryotherapy), dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and chemical peels.
Glycolic acid contains antibacterial and anti-ageing properties that benefit the skin by reducing acne marks, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and more while improving skin texture and complexion.
Kojic Acid further enhances the brightening effect by inhibiting melanin production, while Niacinamide helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores.
Niacinamide is generally considered more effective for hyperpigmentation as it inhibits melanin production. Glycolic acid works by increasing cell turnover to reveal newer skin. Using both can provide a powerful approach.
Tartaric acid treats dark spots, acne scars, acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation, dry skin, sun-damaged skin, and fine lines.
Results Time- If you are looking for quick results, Kojic acid with its strong action on inhibiting melanin, would be a good option. Alpha Arbutin, though equally effective, takes time to show the results.
I suggest using Advik Ayurveda Glow Serum with Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid. My sister has been using this serum for her dark spots and pigmentation, and she has seen a noticeable improvement. Niacinamide is known for its ability to even out skin tone and lighten dark spots effectively.
The Brightening Superstar, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is the best when it comes to skin lightening. Ascorbic acid, the most concentrated form of vitamin C, is a powerful antioxidant that can prevent the synthesis of melanin and lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark patches.
WHEN TO EXPECT VISIBLE IMPROVEMENTS. In skincare, patience is a virtue. And with niacinamide, the wait is definitely worthwhile. Scientific studies suggest it takes around eight weeks when using niacinamide to see visible improvements in hyperpigmentation, although some users may see benefits more quickly than that.
Arbutin gives quicker results than vitamin C. Arbutin acts as hydroquinone, which means it has depigmenting factors. Vitamin C is not easily absorbed into the skin, whereas arbutin absorbs quickly into the skin. That's why arbutin is the best ingredient to include in your skincare routine.
Glycolic acid has now become one of the most recommended skincare ingredients for hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and dullness treatment. If you are in search of the best serum for hyperpigmentation, you can choose the one that comes with glycolic acid.