On to flawless skin!
Sometimes it seems as if they suddenly appear: pigment spots. How do you get rid of it? Happy in Shape provides tips and advice for flawless skin.
Ingredients
There are all kinds of pigment creams, lotions and serums available, but which ingredients really help against pigment spots? You’re in the right place with the powerhouses below. But remember: patience is a virtue. It can take at least a month before you notice (any) results. That’s not surprising, after all, your skin is busy producing new cells. So persevere and keep lubricating well.
1. RETINOL (VITAMIN A)
Stimulates cell renewal, protects against future dark spots and also helps fade existing pigment spots. It makes the spots lighter and your skin smoother and more even. Please note: it is best to apply retinol in the evening before going to bed, as the substance reacts quite violently to the sun. If you use vitamin A during the day, always apply a high SPF afterwards.
2. NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3)
This ingredient helps soothe your skin, protects against UV radiation and produces ceramides and free fatty acids that restore your skin barrier. Scientific research also shows that care products with at least 5 percent niacinamide reduce superficial pigment spots.
3. VITAMIN C
This skin topper – also known as ascorbic acid – has an anti-aging effect and helps make pigment spots less visible. To tackle hyperpigmentation, always use a product with at least 4 percent vitamin C, otherwise the substance is not effective enough.
Text continues below the photos
Sisley Phyto Blanc le Concentre
Paula’s Choice Clinical Discoloration Repair Serum
Kiehls Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Anti-Wrinkle Serum
Chicory Skincare Smoothing Peel
Clarins Mission Perfection Serum
Madara Intense Glow Concentrate
Philosophy microdelivery resurfacing solution
La-Roche Posay Anthelios Pigment Correct SPF 50+
hannah Opulence Serum
Eucerin Anti-Pigment Day Cream SPF 30
4. HYDROQUINONE / HYDROQUINONE
A medicine that is only available with a doctor’s prescription, but occurs naturally in coffee, tea and wine. Hydroquinone suppresses melatonin production, which prevents your skin from producing excess pigment granules. You have to build up hydroquinone slowly and it can irritate and dry out your skin (especially in the beginning). Therefore, never use this product without advice from your doctor or dermatologist, as incorrect use can cause very dark spots.
5. GLYCOLIC ACID
This acid works as an exfoliant and gently removes dead skin cells. It is therefore a smart ingredient to make pigment spots caused by the sun less visible. Please note: glycolic acid must be present in a high concentration, such as 20 percent.
6. LIQORICE ROOT
Perhaps the least known ingredient on this list, but licorice root (extract) is a natural ‘whitener’ for hyperpigmentation and inhibits the formation of melanin. It also helps reduce sebum production.
Text: Babette Dessing | Image: Adobe Stock
