A brightening regime is as essential as skincare to minimise the appearance of other signs of ageing. Annie Tan tells you why.
A brightening regime is as essential as skincare to minimise the appearance of other signs of ageing. Annie Tan tells you why.
Don’t Wait Until You See A Spot
Over time, sun exposure causes dark spots to form. Once they surface, they are much harder to tackle. So, treat hyperpigmentation as you would wrinkles, and address them before they get a chance to show.
Also known as sun spots, age spots, dark spots, brown marks and melasma, hyperpigmentation is caused by the overproduction of melanin, a pigment produced in a specialised group of cells known as melanocytes.
If you are baffled by the variety of brightening skincare targeting this problem when you stop by the beauty counters, here’s why: “Some products help to block melanin formation, some mop up free radicals that contribute to its formation, and others prevent the transfer of the pigment from cells to the surface of the skin,” explains Dr Joyce Lim, dermatologist at Joyce Lim Skin and Laser Clinic.
It’s Not About Having Fair Skin
Also, brightening skincare is not about becoming a couple of shades fairer. That’s just another common misconception. Skin experts tell us there is no way to become fairer than the skin tone we’re born with.
“Brightening skincare is suitable for anyone who desires more radiant and glowing skin. Your skin can have an enviable glow even if you are not fair. Conversely, you can be very fair, but look pale and possess a dull complexion,” says Dr Low Chai Ling, medical director of The Sloane Clinic.
Fuss-free Fixes
Multitasking brightening skincare is becoming increasingly popular. “In our hot climate, consumers don’t want to layer on product after product. They prefer light, breathable skincare that multitasks to restore and boost radiance, exfoliate dulling dead skin cells and boost hydration levels,” explains Dr Low.
Since brightening skincare can have universal benefits for all skin types and tones, the important thing is to start on your regime early. “Younger skin responds well to most products because it is resilient and healthy. As such, you don’t need too much to look radiant,” says Dr Low.
So, don’t wait until you notice an uneven skin tone and dark spots. If brightening is not already a key step in your daily regime, you should upgrade it now with a serum at least.
Choosing The One For You
With a myriad of products on the shelves, what should you look out for? Antioxidants such as vitamin C, extract effectively reduce pigment formation and inflammation, and zap free radicals that also cause premature ageing, says Dr Lim.
Hydroquinone and kojic acid inhibit melanin production; hydroxy acids fight damage caused by free radicals; and arbutin inhibits a protein in the skin that triggers melanin production, says Dr Eileen Tan, dermatologist at Dr Eileen Tan Skin, Laser & Hair Transplant Clinic.
It’s important to choose a product that is suitable for your skin, stresses Dr Low. Products with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids may work for combination to oily skin, but if you have sensitive skin, you should avoid them as they may be too harsh.
An Added Benefit
Naturally, having clear and luminous skin can make you look even more beautiful. But experts point out that brightening products can shave years off your looks, too. According to Dr Lim, many contain antioxidants to neutralise free radicals that contribute to key signs of ageing, such as sagging skin, uneven skin tone, and a sallow appearance.
On the next page, we help you get your regime going.
