Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
"It is a comprehensive guide that presents the properties and skin benefits of the most effective active ingredients used to even out skin tone, reduce the appearance of spots, and achieve healthier-looking skin."
Active Ingredients That Help With Skin Spots
| Retinoid | Retinol, retinal, and retinoic acids are derivatives of vitamin A. Retinoids help increase collagen synthesis, reduce wrinkles, thicken the epidermis, and improve skin elasticity. They renew skin cells and have anti-aging effects. The skin becomes more radiant. |
| Vitamin C | Vitamin C is one of the most important antioxidants for the skin. It inhibits the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, thus preventing melanin synthesis. It prevents spot formation and enhances collagen synthesis and maturation. L-ascorbic acid is the most effective and stable form found in Vitamin C serums. |
| Arbutin | Arbutin is naturally derived from the leaves of the bearberry plant. It is used as a skin brightener and spot remover, and is safer than chemical alternatives. Synthetic forms of alpha arbutin are used up to 2%, while beta arbutin is used up to 7%. Alpha arbutin is 10 times more powerful than its isomer beta arbutin. |
| Azelaic Acid | Azelaic acid has antibacterial, keratolytic, comedolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Its keratolytic effect makes it effective for acne and post-acne marks. It is especially suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin due to its low irritation risk. It helps reduce redness and brighten the skin. |
| Niacinamide | Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. It helps strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, brightens existing dark spots, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin firmness. It also helps balance sebum production, reduce acne, and minimize pores. |
| AHA/BHA |
These acids help remove dead skin cells from the skin surface. AHA – glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, citric acid |
| Hydroquinone | Hydroquinone slows melanin production. It is used to treat various forms of hyperpigmentation, including hormone-related melasma, post-inflammatory pigmentation, and sun damage. Since it is a potent skin lightener with potential side effects, it should be used under dermatologist supervision. Do not use without consulting your doctor. |
| Tranexamic Acid | Tranexamic acid inhibits the tyrosinase enzyme, thereby reducing melanin production and lightening brown spots. It has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and itching. It also prevents newly formed red spots from turning into brown discoloration. |
