Skin is something we’re all guilty of taking for granted at one time or another. Some of us are worse offenders than others for this, though – and if you’re reading this, you may be ready to acknowledge that you are one of the former group.
Not to worry, though; that is precisely the purpose of this very guide. As someone who’s let their skin fend for itself, you may have caught yourself in the mirror and wondered where your glow went – but right now, be it poor sleep, high stress or simply skincare neglect, we’re going to get it back. And we’re going to do so with five of the best products you can invest in for the sake of your healthy glow. Are you ready?
- Vitamin C: The Antioxidant Powerhouse
Vitamin C is more than just an abundant ingredient in your favourite citrus beverage When applied topically, it becomes a veritable powerhouse of skin-brighten-ability, renowned as it is for its antioxidant superpowers – lifting complexions through the inhibition of melanin production and neutralization of free radicals. Simply put, Vitamin C helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and promotes a more even skin tone. So, make sure to check out skin brightening products containing this wonder vitamin, capiche?
- Niacinamide: A Multi-Tasking Skin Brightener
We’re not done with vitamins yet, by a long stretch. Let’s step back a letter, and take a look at niacinamide – better known, perhaps, to you as vitamin B3. B3 is usually enjoyed as a cholesterol-reducing vitamin, but when applied topically it unlocks some new special powers relating to the skin you live in. Niacinamide-rich serums can be used to lighten hyperpigmentation, improve skin elasticity, and enhance your skin barrier while it’s at it – which means better protection against the elements, amongst other things!
- Alpha Arbutin: Targeted Hyperpigmentation Treatment
We’re getting obscure now, with something you won’t have heard of unless you’ve already been down this same rabbit hole before. Alpha arbutin is a naturally occurring compound that inhibits tyrosinase – another thing you haven’t heard of, but which has a crucial role in the production of melanin. By doing this, alpha arbutin helps to lighten your dark spots and even out your skin tone, without the sometimes-irritating side-effects often attributed to other, more aggressive forms of skin-brightening treatment.
- Salicylic Acid: Exfoliation for a Brighter Complexion
Last but certainly not least, we come to salicylic acid – a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA for short) that can penetrate deep into your pores to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. This is, in essence, a chemical exfoliant, which you can use to easier rid yourself of the excess oils and waste cells getting between your skin and that beautiful fresh air. Make sure not to exfoliate more than twice a week maximum, though, else you could irritate your skin beyond the glow you deserve.
