How to Fade Pigmentation with Asian Beauty

Step into the enchanting realm of Asian Beauty as we unveil its secret weapon against pesky pigmentation! From ancient remedies to high-tech wizardry, Asian Beauty has earned its stripes in the quest for flawlessly radiant skin. Let's embark on a thrilling journey together, uncovering the mighty ingredients and skincare sorcery that have put Asian Beauty at the frontlines of the pigment-fighting revolution!

Types of Pigmentation

Categorising pigmentation on the face involves identifying different types of pigmentation and understanding their underlying causes. Here are the common categories of facial pigmentation:

• Sunspots/Age spots

These are flat, dark spots that develop due to prolonged sun exposure and are commonly seen in older individuals. They are caused by an accumulation of melanin in the skin's outer layer.

• Melasma

Melasma appears as brown or grey-brown patches on the face, usually on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It is often associated with hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy or birth control pills) and sun exposure.

• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

PIH occurs after skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, burns, or cuts. It appears as darkened patches or spots on the affected area due to an increase in melanin production during the healing process.

Effective Brightening Ingredients

Several ingredients have been found to be effective in diminishing pigmentation and improving the appearance of skin discolouration. When looking for skincare products to target pigmentation, consider the following ingredients:

1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to brighten the skin and fade dark spots. It inhibits melanin production and also promotes collagen synthesis, leading to a more even skin tone. Look for products containing stable and potent forms of vitamin C, such as L-ascorbic acid.

Try: ROHTO MENTHOLATUM Melano CC Vitamin C Essence (20ml) - £14.99

ROHTO MENTHOLATUM Melano CC Vitamin C Essence is a potent and weightless brightening product that combines Vitamin C, Vitamin E derivatives, and Alpinia Seed Extract to suppress melanin production, diminish dark spots, and enhance skin tone effectively. Infused with dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, the serum not only conditions the skin but also soothes and hydrates it. Its quick-absorbing formula penetrates deeply, leaving no greasy residue behind. Conveniently packaged in a drop-type tube, applying the ideal amount is effortless, making it a breeze to include in your skincare routine.

2. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) & Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)

AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, exfoliate the top layer of the skin, promoting cell turnover and helping to fade pigmentation. They also improve skin texture and tone. BHA, such as salicylic acid, is another exfoliant that penetrates into the pores, making it effective for treating pigmentation related to acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Try: BEAUTY OF JOSEON Green Plum Refreshing Toner : AHA + BHA (150ml) - £17.00

BEAUTY OF JOSEON Green Plum Refreshing Toner is a one-of-a-kind bubble toner designed to provide gentle daily exfoliation while foaming for balanced, brightened, and clear skin. This unique toner is enriched with 25% freshly picked Green Plum Water and 3% Glycolic Acid (AHA) as well as 0.5% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which effectively removes dead skin cells from the surface, resulting in a brighter complexion and promotes cell turnover to fade pigmentation and acne scars. The formula is free from artificial fragrances, parabens, sulfates, artificial colours, alcohol, mineral oils, essential oils, and silicone, ensuring a wholesome and skin-friendly experience.

3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is known for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. It can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and even out skin tone.

Try: NACIFIC Phyto Niacin Brightening Essence (50ml) - £18.00

NACIFIC Phyto Niacin Brightening Essence works wonders on brightening your complexion and diminishing dark spots and pigmentation. This powerful formula contains 5% Niacinamide and Vitamin C derivatives sourced from Lemon, Morus Alba Bark, and Rosa Canina Fruit. But that's not all – instead of water, we've infused Bamboo Water, renowned for its excellent moisture-retaining properties, leaving your skin with a soft and radiant glow. What sets this essence apart is the inclusion of a blend of fruit and flower extracts, carefully chosen to nurture, soothe, and infuse your skin with powerful antioxidants. 

4. Arbutin

Arbutin is a natural compound found in some plants, and it works by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production.

Try: BEAUTY OF JOSEON Glow Deep Serum (30ml) - £15.00

Crafted with a lightweight and watery texture, BEAUTY OF JOSEON Glow Deep Serum targets pigmentation by inhibiting melanin formation, leading to a clear, even, and radiant complexion. The key players in this transformative formula are 68.8% Rice Bran Water and 2% Arbutin, renowned for their brightening properties and exceptional effectiveness in addressing pigmentation, acne scars, and dullness. Additionally, the serum features other hydrating and brightening ingredients, culminating in a powerful blend that rejuvenates and illuminates the skin. 

5. Tranexamic Acid

Tranexamic acid has been found to be effective in brightening the skin and improving hyperpigmentation. Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine and is known for its ability to inhibit the production of melanin in the skin.

Try: HADA LABO Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion (170ml) - £18.00

Renowned for its efficacy in brightening and lightening the skin, HADA LABO Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion targets the root cause of sun pigmentation and dark spots. Its innovative and concentrated formula combines Tranexamic Acid, Vitamin C, and Nano-Hyaluronic Acid to harmoniously even out skin tone, lighten discolouration, provide deep hydration, and safeguard against future pigmentation, all while reducing inflammation. Notably, Tranexamic Acid plays a remarkable role in reducing melanin caused by inflammation by inhibiting the plasmin pathway, making it an exceptional ingredient for achieving a more radiant and even complexion.

Additional Skincare Tips for Reducing Pigmentation

Reducing pigmentation on the face requires a consistent and targeted skincare routine. Here are some helpful tips and skincare advice to diminish pigmentation:

• Sunscreen is Essential

Protecting your skin from UV radiation is crucial to prevent further pigmentation and darkening of existing spots. Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun.

Try: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50 PA++ - £19.95

Renowned in the world of K-Beauty, this SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum has gained a cult following for its remarkably lightweight, moisturising, and soothing effect. It features a blend of Hyaluronic Acid and Centella Asiatica sourced from Madagascar and offers robust protection against UV damage, boasting an impressive SPF50 PA++++. Notably, this sun serum doesn't leave a white cast or undesirable greasy, sticky residue but instead leaves the skin with a radiant and revitalised appearance.

• Avoid Picking or Squeezing Spots

Picking at blemishes or spots can worsen pigmentation and lead to scarring. Instead of taking risks of having long-lasting marks and crying over them, use spot treatments to provide extra care to irritated skin and boost the healing process.

Try: COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch (18pcs) - £4.00

COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch is slim and translucent, intended to reduce and facilitate the natural healing of acne, pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. By breaking down debris and absorbing excess oil and impurities, these patches aid in the elimination of infection and bacteria. They are ideal for daytime use, carefully crafted to seamlessly blend with makeup, thanks to their ultra-thin and discreet design. If you are looking for an overnight treatment, try COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (24pcs) instead!