Bright, sun-kissed summer days are undeniably delightful, but they can leave behind a skin problem we all struggle with: pigmentation or sun spots and dark spots. But fret not, there is hope for our skin! Today, we explore the causes behind sun spots and dark spots, as well as effective skincare products to prevent and treat them.
Achieving a clear and even complexion starts with understanding the different types of pigmentation we may encounter. Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines, are the result of prolonged sun exposure. These flat, circular, or oval-shaped spots are usually darker than the surrounding skin. On the other hand, dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, can be caused by various factors like acne scars, hormonal changes, or inflammation.
Contrary to popular belief, skincare plays a crucial role in fading these unsightly pigmentation spots and restoring skin's radiance. To address pigmentation issues, look for products with ingredients known to have benefits in this area. Vitamin C for instance, is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and diminish the appearance of pigmentation spots over time. By inhibiting excess pigment production, it gives the skin a more even tone.
Niacinamide is another effective skincare hero to look for. It not only regulates sebum production and minimises pores but also works wonders in reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Gentle exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can also speed up the skin's natural cell turnover process, revealing fresh, more evenly toned skin.
Incorporating these powerful ingredients into your skincare routine can make a significant difference in combating pigmentation issues.
Where do you begin? With so many beauty products around us, it might feel overwhelming to pick one that works for you. Read on as we collate the best beauty products for pigmented skin and dark spots so you can start your journey to clear and radiant skin, right away.
Kosé Infinity Innovative Bright XX Series - To Target Spots and Dullness Effectively
Instead of investing in a single serum, lotion and cream, how about buying a whole set that can effectively target your pigmentation? Say hello to the Kosé Infinity Innovative Bright XX Series, that comes with the lightest formulations for firmer and lustrous skin.
The series includes lotion, serum, and emulsion to deliver kojic acid to your dark areas and freckles, which also act on skin dullness. Each promises a deep and intense treatment and care for your features, leaving them clear and firm. The skincare trio also supports your skin’s ability to store moisture with its soothing, fresh, and floral scent, making it a great addition to your self-pampering nights.
Look forward to skin with the best intensive moisturising experience, while it improves your uneven skin tone with a luminous shine.
Available at Kosé.
Sisley Phyto Blanc La Nuit - Brightening Night Cream for Anti-Dark Spots
Indulge your skin in a luxurious evening ritual with Sisley Phyto Blanc La Nuit. After a long day exposed to harsh UV rays and environmental stressors, this new addition by the French skincare brand, gives your skin the relaxation and healing it deserves. The night cream is set to become your ultimate go-to, offering a triple-action formulation that detoxifies, brightens, and nourishes your skin.
Beyond its skincare benefits, the moisturising cream also acts as a protective shield, preventing dehydration throughout the night, thanks to its active ingredient, Shea oil. As you massage the cream into your skin, revel in the soothing scents of Lavender and Marjoram essential oils, enhancing your self-care evening routine. Its Ranbow Algae Extract treatas dullness and daark spots over time, leaving behind a transformed complexion, free of uneven patches.
With the addition of Phyto Blanc La Nuit to the Sisley Phyto-Blanc Collection, you now have another highly effective tool to combat dark spots and protect your skin while you sleep. Experience the transformative power of Sisley Phyto Blanc La Nuit and let your skin rejuvenate and flourish during your nighttime beauty routine.
Available at Sisley counters Islandwide and online at https://www.sisley-paris.com/en-SG
The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion - One Solution for Dark Spots and Uneven Skin Tone
The strongest retinal in the market, The Ordinary has outdone itself with its latest Retinal 0.2% Emulsion. If you aren’t familiar with the term, retinal is also a retinoid and a more direct form of vitamin A. Delivering a powerful formula with a high 0.2% concentration for smoothening and tightening your skin, this nighttime treatment evens your skin tone while reducing your wrinkles, lines and more. We all know that retinol has a bit of discomfort, but this compact bottle also has synthetic oat analogues to ease your discomfort and dryness - super helpful!
Although it is suitable for all skin types, first-time skincare newbies might want to try out The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion or the Retinol 0.2% in Squalane before diving headfirst into this brand-new formulation.
Available in Sephora and Zalora.
Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel - Gentle Triple Acid Facial Peel
Worried about your skin losing its usual shine? Kiehl’s newly launched Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel is a powerhouse facial peel that will make your skin glow, soft and smooth. Formulated with 5.5% AHAs (Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid), 0.18% BHA (Salicylic Acid), and 3.0% PHA (Gluconolactone), rest assured that this gentle exfoliating peel can be used daily to smooth out uneven texture, reduce pores and excess oil. Plus, this bottle contains Copper Gluconate to relieve discomfort.
Did you know that Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel is shown to visibly smooth skin texture by +26%? And Kiehl’s genius formula is suitable to all skin types, sensitive ones too! For optimal use, apply thin layer to clean skin, morning and evening. Pair it with SPF protection, and you will be ready to tackle the day!
Available at Kiehl’s.
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment - For Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
While some people are blessed with great genes, Sunday Riley offers everyone the chance to experience the benefits of perfect skin with their Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment. This lactic acid AHA formula is a super effective serum that aids and targets pores, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. It also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid treatment will exfoliate your skin with its hydrating, purified-grade lactic acid for a more youthful complexion. Struggling with dryness? Rest assured, this stuff works wonders for any skin type, whether you are dealing with acne or dryness. It brightens your skin, fights signs of ageing, and leaves you with a clear, glowing look!
Available at Sephora.sg
Kosé Miyabi Actirise Series - Moisturising and Brightening Skincare Series
Another impressive line from Kosé, the Miyabi Actirise Series or the Asian Fermented Skin Care line, is designed to brighten without any harsh effects on the skin. This whole set comes with cleansing oil, cleanser, lotion, emulsion, cream and more to revitalise your skin with a brighter tone. Its unique combination of Asian herbs, such as fermented coix seed extract, Japanese Angelica root extract, Melothria extract, and a series of aromatic oils, will get your face glowing and effortlessly moisturised through the entirety of the day.
It is also suitable for first-time users. If you have yet to try the Kosé Miyabi Actirise Series, this is your sign to try the richly formulated series to get soft and supple skin every day and not be concerned about dealing with uneven skin.
Available at Kosé and BHG stores.
Paula’s Choice Clinical Discoloration Repair Serum - Reduces Dark Spots and Discolouration
Reducing brown and dark spots may sound like a chore, so make sure you use the most effective of skincare such as the Paula’s Choice Clinical Discoloration Repair Serum. Aside from reducing the appearance of the pesky spots, this serum prevents new discolouration from forming on your features.
Struggling with uneven skin? No problem! This special serum evens your patchy skin tone and brightens your features so you can leave the house glowing and radiant.
Available on Paula's Choice.
Forest MD Asta Collagen Jelly Serum – Nourishing Serum with Antioxidants
Feeling the first lines of your wrinkles seeping in? The Forest MD Asta Collagen Jelly Serum will be your must-have for an anti-ageing formula that delivers all the goodness to your face. This orange jelly formulation has everything you need for a total self-care day. From anti-ageing, firming masks, brightening treatments and even an eye gel, you need not have a complicated skincare routine for flawless skin!
This bottle also contains a blend of super antioxidants, proteins, and skin-transforming ingredients, so it’s not surprising that the serum is a holy grail for some!
Buy your own fountain of youth from Forest MD.
Anessa Night Suncare Serum - Overnight Repair for Dark Spots
Applying sunscreen is important, but how about repairing your skin overnight from UV rays? While we love Anessa for its effective suncare range, the Japanese brand recently released its Night Suncare Serum, which nourishes and brightens your skin while you rest.
Formulated with niacinamide, this soothing serum repairs any sign of dark spots or dullness and heals your skin from the harsh daily exposure to UV rays. Smooth and lightweight, it strengthens your skin’s barrier and builds tolerance against UV stressors - super handy after being out and about in Singapore’s weather.
This serum also features classic ingredients from other Anessa products, such as yellow flower extract and green tea extract, to protect your skin against sun-induced ageing. Furthermore, the Night Suncare Serum has other elements that aid your skin in becoming more moisturised, like glutamic acid. Who can’t resist another addition to your nighttime skincare routine? With its Ashitaba leaf extract and lavender oil inside, the Anessa Night Suncare Serum will make you fall asleep easily while shielding your skin from extreme dryness.
Available from April end in Singapore.