Dark Spots! Melasma, spots resulting from skin ageing, pregnancy, hormonal changes, acne marks, or even certain pharmaceutical treatments. Whatever the cause or aetiology, we all agree that they are uncomfortable and difficult to eliminate.
But how do dark spots appear?
Dark spots result from excess production of melanin by melanocytes, or from irregular distribution or accumulation of melanin in localised areas. They may also result from inflammatory processes or changes in blood vessels, which lead to the appearance of red or purple spots.
Is there a treatment for hyperpigmentation?
Laser, pulsed light, and chemical peels are the most effective treatments for dark spots. They should be performed by dermatologists or aesthetic medicine specialists, but are more invasive and costly.
The most common treatment for hyperpigmentation involves the use of serums and/or creams suited to your skin type, without forgetting the sunscreen, which should be used throughout the year, as unprotected sun exposure is one of the main causes or aggravating factors of dark spots.
Which active ingredients are truly effective in treating dark spots?
When it comes to treatment with serums and/or creams, which are the best? Discover the active ingredients with proven efficacy and the products that contain them.
Niacinamide or Vitamin B3
It is an outstanding depigmenting active ingredient that works to even out skin tone and texture, maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier. It inhibits the transfer of melanin, preventing its accumulation. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is the most recommended for sensitive skin and spots resulting from inflammatory processes.
It is present in various serums and creams with depigmenting action, but we highlight the Mela B3 by La Roche-Posay, with 10% Niacinamide and Melasyl®, as well as a Retinol derivative, which reduces dark spots, age spots, sun spots, and acne marks. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types.
Tranexamic Acid
An active ingredient that works in a multifunctional way, at both biochemical and vascular levels, to prevent the synthesis and accumulation of melanin, as well as reducing excessive vascularisation associated with inflammatory processes. It is present in several reference products for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.
The Neoretin range by Cantabria Labs is one of the most complete and effective ranges on the market. It contains Tranexamic Acid in its formulations, as well as Niacinamide, among other active ingredients that promote skin renewal, contributing to the depigmenting effect.
O Neoretin Discrom Control Concentrate Serum contains Glycolic Acid, with a renewing effect, making it ideal for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne marks, and age spots. Due to its composition, it should be used in the night-time routine.
O Melaclear by Isdin, with Niacinamide and Tranexamic Acid, contains the SpotCorrect Complex, with AHA and BHA. It corrects and prevents dark spots, evening out the skin tone and keeping it moisturised and radiant. In addition to its efficacy, it stands out for its refill, ideal for those who care about their skin and the environment.
Alpha-Arbutin
It is a Hydroquinone derivative that reduces enzymatic activity at the level of melanin production, decreasing its synthesis.
O Martiderm Shots Arbutin is a treatment with Arbutin, with depigmenting action, and Exonolone, with soothing and evening properties. It has a very pleasant texture, reducing dark spots and evening out the complexion.
Retinoids
Retinol and its derivatives accelerate cell renewal, contributing to the reduction in the intensity of dark spots.
O Neoretin Ultra Emulsion is an intensive depigmenting treatment, with Niacinamide and Tranexamic Acid, plus RETINDUO® technology. It is ideal for treating melasma and resistant hyperpigmentation, and should only be used in the night-time routine.
Azelaic Acid
A soothing and antioxidant active ingredient that works by inhibiting tyrosinase, reducing melanin production. It is ideal for acne-prone skin and effective in spots of inflammatory origin, acne marks, and melasma.
O Sesderma Azelac Ru Luminous Fluid, with Azelaic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, Vitamin C, and sun filters, is a complete product for those who want to treat dark spots but prefer a simplified routine. It treats and protects the skin, leaving it comfortable and radiant.
Thiamidol®
A patented active ingredient by Beiersdorf, which works by inhibiting tyrosinase, reducing melanin production.
O Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum contains Thiamidol®, Hyaluronic Acid, and Licochalcone A, for effective depigmenting action, while also evening out the complexion and preventing the appearance of new spots. It is one of the best-selling products for the treatment of dark spots.
Kojic Acid
An antioxidant active ingredient that works by inhibiting tyrosinase, reducing melanin production.
O MartiDerm Pigment Zero DSP-EXO Melan is a depigmenting serum with ExoTech and Kojic Acid. It is an effective product with a velvety texture.
O Neoretin Discrom Control Depigmenting Peelis a complementary anti-dark spot treatment, with exfoliating action, Kojic Acid, AHA, and BHA, to be used once a week as an enhancer of the depigmenting treatment. Powerful and effective.
We could not finish this article without mentioning the Vinoperfect serum by Caudalie. With Viniferine and Squalene, it is also a reference product for the treatment of dark spots, particularly effective in their prevention, and can be safely used during pregnancy.
Still have questions?
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