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While most of us would give anything for flawless skin (the kind that super models and Hollywood stars have—after the airbrushing!), the reality is that nearly everyone has some type of skin blemish to get rid of. Pigmentation imperfections are extremely common, whether they’re age or liver spots, freckles, hyperpigmentation or melasma. While they may be frustrating, there are ways to prevent and reduce the appearance of these blemishes that help to maintain a clear and even skin tone.
There’s a saying: prevention is better than cure. This is especially true in the case of spots on the skin. While freckles, age spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation can be reduced, it is much easier to prevent them through the use of a good sunscreen than it is to lighten them once they have appeared.
While none of the above mentioned conditions are dangerous by themselves, there are many other serious skin conditions that are often mistaken for these innocent blemishes. For this reason, it is extremely important to consult with a dermatologist before embarking on any skin lightening regimen. He or she can confirm that the spots you are trying to fade are not an indicator of a more critical situation. In addition, pregnant women should see their doctor before doing any skin lightening, as many of the active ingredients in skin lightening products may not be safe for use during pregnancy.
Several new lightening ingredients have appeared on the skin care horizon recently, including arbutin and kojic acid. Both of these agents inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme that catalyzes the production of melanin, thereby evening skin tone and reducing the appearance of age spots. In addition, arbutin protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Gels and Serums
Lightening Gel by Pevonia Botanica utilizes arbutin as well as azelaic acid, magnesium ascorbyl phospate and mulberry extract to lighten hyperpigmentation on healthy skin. Enlighten Me Pigment Lightening Serum by Ole Henriksen is formulated with a 10% vitamin C complex and a blend of botanical acids and extracts to stimulate collagen and diminish pigmentation.
Hydra-Pure Radiance Renewal Serum by MD Skincare brightens and evens skin tone by addressing issues such as aging, sun spots, inflammation, hormonal changes, genetics and environmental factors.
Facial Masks
The age-defying Therapeutic Brightening Masque by B. Kamins hydrates, firms and brightens skin by repairing elasticity and balancing uneven tone. Glycolic and kojic acids encourage the cellular renewal process for smooth, radiant skin. Jan Marini’s Factor A Plus Mask brilliantly resurfaces and clarifies skin texture while fading discoloration for a more even skin tone. It also diminishes acne while reducing risk of discoloration and scarring. Fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage are dramatically improved, and the complexion is brighter, smoother and more refined.
Hand Creams
When looking to update your anti-aging regimen, don’t forget your hands! Because most people spend the bulk of their time worrying about the skin on their face, their hands can be the biggest indication of their actual age, and in some cases make them look older than they actually are. Hands That Lie by Peter Thomas Roth is a rejuvenating hand cream that conditions rough, discolored skin while protecting against future damage. Kojic acid and arbutin are combined with mulberry and licorice extract to lighten age spots for a smooth, even skin tone. Jan Marini offers Age Intervention – Hands to address the effects that aging and sun damage can have on hands. Alpha and beta hydroxy acids work with anti-inflammatory agents, kojic acid, and other skin lightening ingredients to target discoloration, textural changes, and dryness, restoring softness and an even color.
Eye Creams and Serums
Banish tired, dark eyes with White Out by Sircuit Skin. Not only does it address current problems, but it also prevents future dark circle issues and protects against sun damage. In MD Skincare’s Lift & Lighten Eye Cream – Advanced Technology, kojic acid works with vitamin K to combat dark under eye circles and stimulate circulation for brighter, younger-looking eyes.
Cosmetics
If you’re going to cover up your spots anyway, why not try to get to the root of the problem at the same time? That’s the idea behind Jane Iredale’s Enlighten Concealer, which disguises hyperpigmentation, scars and bruising while arbutin, vitamin K and licorice work to permanently fade the troublesome spots.
Article posted 3/31/2008.
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