3 New Skin Brighteners
Spring’s new crop of skin brighteners puts the latest ingredients into technologically advanced formulas to reduce the appearance of stubborn dark spots (hyperpigmentation), giving a more luminous, even-toned complexion.
LA ROCHE-POSAY REDERMIC C10 FILL-IN CONCENTRATE
La Roche-Posay Redermic C10 Fill-in Concentrate, $59, at drugstores
Effective not only in neutralizing free radicals and stimulating collagen production but also in preventing dark spots caused by photoaging, vitamin C is one of the most well-studied and reputable ingredients in dermatology. Historically, the powerful antioxidant has been tricky to stabilize in skincare, but with this new launch, La Roche-Posay has managed to pack in a high concentration—10 percent vitamin C. The formula is enriched with vitamin E and hyaluronic acid to help reinforce skin’s structure, while a hydrating sugar molecule called Fucogel helps immediately plump fine lines. The lightweight concentrate can be used solo, or layered under other skincare.
SHISEIDO WHITE LUCENT
Shiseido White Lucent Collection, $70–$150 each, at Shiseido counters
This spring, four more products join the brightening-focused White Lucent range. At the heart of the formulas is what the brand calls Proapproachx2, a combo of multiple technological advances that help skin resist the development of dark spots, and also fade the appearance of existing hyperpigmentation. One key new ingredient, for instance, is derived from Japanese cherry blossoms and works by lowering melanin production signals in cells. Another tech innovation creates an ion “veil” over skin, protecting it from external aggressors. The line’s additions include the MicroTargeting Spot Corrector, the MultiBright Night Cream, the Luminizing Surge (an emulsion) and the Luminizing Infuser (an essence-like lotion).
CLARINS MISSION PERFECTION SERUM
Clarins Mission Perfection Serum, $68, at Clarins counters
Recently, Clarins scientists realized that how skin cells communicate with each other plays a major role in the process responsible for forming dark spots. When skin is exposed to aggressors like UV rays and inflammation, exosomes (the messages sent by keratinocytes to melanocytes) end up playing broken telephone. The result: an overproduction of melanin. This new serum features a cherry extract that blocks these incorrect signals over time, reducing this excess production. Meanwhile, ginkgo biloba encourages microcirculation and minimizes redness. The serum’s sheer and subtle coral tint adapts to all skin tones, and offers a light-reflecting veil to improve the look of hyperpigmentation ASAP.