Regardless of your age, skin type or skin tone, there’s one skin quality that is universally regarded as beautiful: a radiant and luminous complexion. With new technological breakthroughs, there are now more products that are able to target hyperpigmentation and dull skin tone effectively without any harshness. Whether you’re a fan of high-tech synthetics or a believer in pure botanicals, here are the newest brightening products to try for visible results.
It helps to revitalise and strengthen skin by harnessing the powers of antioxidant-rich ume flower extract, which boosts skin’s vitality. Vitamin C works together with this active ingredient to reinforce the brightening action, restoring radiance and translucency. Then, ume flower oil (its new – and key – ingredient) restores skin lipids and forms a veil over the skin to lock in moisture. PIT Technology (used for the first time in Chanel) obtains minute oil droplets for maximum efficacy and creates a smooth and comforting texture for a sensorial experience.
UV rays contribute to the formation of abnormal blood vessels, which stimulates melanocytes (one of the root causes of dark spots). To combat that, Sakura-Bright Complex is infused to supress such blood vessels and melanocyte stimulating factors. Natsune extract derived from the jujube fruit helps skin respond rapidly to skincare ingredients for instant results. Melanin Crush, a process that uses rehmannia root extract, vitamin C and 4MSK is incorporated to inhibit tyrosinase (a copper-containing enzyme that catalyses the production of melanin).
It comes with a stainless steel roller ball designed for precise and highly targeted application while allowing it to glide smoothly over the skin. It also has a lightweight packaging as it is meant to be used on-the-go and can even be applied over makeup. Thanks to a vitamin C derivative, it tackles the production of melanin at its source for quicker results. Additionally, dipotassium glycyrrhizate helps to soothe and calm while limiting the overproduction of melanin induced by UV and pollution-related inflammation and factors.
Known for its high-performance formulas, Peter Thomas Roth nails it once again with this concentrated serum. Featuring an impressive 20 per cent vitamin C derivative, this fast-absorbing serum targets melanin production at its root. Instead of most other forms of vitamin C, Peter Thomas Roth uses THD Ascorbate, a stable and non-irritating form that doesn’t break down when exposed to light and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. Plus, it also contains vitamin E and ferulic acid for a synergistic effect on evening out skin tone and reducing the appearance of dark spots.
Ideal for those with a dull and congested complexion, this mask is a vegan concoction of natural ingredients to boost skin clarity at the same time. Antioxidants-rich grape and kiwi extract protect skin against free radicals damage while peony extract targets excessive melanin production for a more even skin tone. Plus, skin is given a deep detox as volcanic mud from New Zealand draws out impurities stuck within pores for refined skin texture.
This year, Dior’s laboratories partners with Hopital Saint-Louis, a famed institution known for its expertise in dermatology. And through their collaboration, it has been discovered that the more sensitised our skin is, the likelier it is to develop dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Inevitably, this redefines how Dior approaches the fight against uncontrolled melanin production. In order to keep skin bright and luminous, this new serum works primarily by inhibiting skin’s inflammatory response as well as by strengthening its barrier function to keep potentially harmful particles out. At the same time, it also suppresses the transfer of melanin to the skin surface while supporting cellular turnover so that existing spots can be reduced and lightened. Over time, expect a luminous and more even-toned complexion.
If you’re looking for an all-rounder serum that address multiple skin concerns in addition to stubborn dark spots, this is your best bet. Formulated with a powerful blend of 11 per cent AHA and BHA, this overnight serum is also infused with antioxidants, peptides and brighteners to target melanin production at all its stages. Plus, it also improves skin firmness and boost moisture levels so you wake up to smoother, plumper and brighter skin, day after day.
You can always count on Chanel for the most luxurious and pampering products. So if you’re in the mood for splurging, treat your skin (and senses) to this silky smooth serum. You’ll be happy to know that of the 500 plants that Chanel scientists have studied, they’ve arrived at anthyllis, a hardy flower that targets the defence mechanism of skin cells to block out cellular damage, which in turn, limits cellular inflammation. And since cellular inflammation is a major cause of melanin proliferation, this nips the problem in the bud. Over time, your skin becomes more resilient against environmental hazards and regains a clear and youthful glow.
If you prefer a lightweight serum, look no further than this. White Gardenia Stem Cells extract, Lipo Amino Acid and niacinamide are at the heart of this formula, as they not only reduce skin discolouration but also infuse skin with soothing compounds. Other botanicals like garden cress, chinese cabbage roots and water lily extract also help optimise skin renewal and boost cellular defence to prevent future skin damage. Plus, like all other Chantecaille, this is made with a rosewater base so you can count on its skin-soothing properties as well.
Think of this as a hybrid that’s both a moisturiser and a brightening primer. As its name suggests, it is formulated with a carefully calibrated blend of vitamins that deliver antioxidant and brightening benefits to your skin. Plus, it is also packed with hydrating ingredients so it glides over skin and can be used alone or over your regular moisturiser if your skin is prone to dryness. Thanks to the calamime content, it also soothes and has a slight pink tint to give your skin a rosy, post-facial glow.
One of the newest brands to be made available in Singapore, thanks to Sephora, Dr Roebucks is an Australian skincare brand that uses natural ingredients that are native to its home base. And if you happen to be looking for something that targets dull skin, dark spots, fine lines and rough skin texture, you might just be in luck. Formulated with Caviar Lime and Kakadu Plum, all you have to do is leave a thin layer of this AHA- and antioxidants-enriched mask on your skin for about 15 minutes for a renewed complexion. AHA sweeps away dead skin cells, improves skin’s ability to retain moisture and refines skin texture, while antioxidants fight off free radicals that can dull skin. When used two to three times a week, you’ll notice that your skin looks brighter, smoother and more even.
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