Skin Brightening

​Have you looked in the mirror lately and asked yourself, where did that spot come from?! Don't worry, your probably not the only one. This time of year, after long days in the heat and sun, is when most people start noticing new pigmentation. As easy and as fast as they appear it can be a little harder to make them go away. Pigmentation will need plenty of attention and may require a consistent skin brightening regimen. 

What causes these pigmented spots?

Sun Exposure

The most common cause of dark spots and freckles on the skin is a result of the sun’s UV radiation. UV rays break the molecular bonds and damages the DNA in the skin’s cellular structure and resulting in an overproduction of melanin in these damaged areas.   

Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is darkening caused by irritation or injury, such as acne or picking at your skin. This injury and irritation releases an overproduction of melanin into these areas. 

Air pollution, Chemicals & Fragrances 

Air pollution, chemicals and fragrances can be broken down by UV rays causing an intensifying and photosensitising effect in the skin’s cells. Perfume can cause Poikiloderma of Civatte. Poikiloderma is a condition that occurs on the neck and chest that consists of hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, telangiectasias and atrophy (chicken skin).

Hormones and Heat

Hormones can increase the over production of melanin. Due to hormones, pigment can appear during pregnancy, such as Melasma. Heat outside or internally increases vasodilation, which is the dilation of blood vessels and inflammation which leads to the stimulation of pigment production. The use of saunas, steamers or holding the hair dryer too close to our face may result in unwanted pigmentation.

Depending on the type of skin you have, you may have a tendency to react more dramatically and release more pigment than others. 

What ingredients should I look for?  ​

Hydroquinone 

Hydroquinone is a common ingredient usually found in brightening creams and acts by bleaching the skin. Hydroquinone decreases the production and increases the breakdown of melanosomes in the cell. Hydroquinone is a great option for deeply pigmented areas and Melasma. On the down side prolonged usage of hydroquinone has been associated with ochronosis, a blue-black pigmentation and is advised not to be used for more than five months at a time. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant and works by decreasing pigment and increasing cellular function. Vitamin C is stable and safe to use on a daily basis for prolonged periods of time as it is a natural skin brightener. Natural skin brightening products are safe for daily use and have no negative side effects.  

Additional treatments to add to your skin brightening regimen for the optimal results.
- Probiotic Nourishing Peel & Vivier Peel - 

We are offering a Probiotic Nourishing peel or Vivier peel (value $75) as a compliment to a purchase of three (3) Glowbiotic products.  Valid through 9/12/2019