What does brightening really mean?

Radiance. Glow. Clarity. Even tone. These are all outcomes of products described as brightening. But what exactly do brighteners do, and which ingredients fall into this category? 

Brighteners target the marks left behind by acne, photodamage, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and melasma. Their goal is to encourage a luminous, even-toned complexion, but they don’t all work in the same way.

Some brightening ingredients directly target pigmentation at the cellular level to keep it from making it to the surface in the first place. They either inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase or block its transfer to melanocytes.

Others work by increasing cellular turnover to help lift excess pigment from the surface through exfoliation.

The term brightening can also mean simply increasing radiance by revealing fresh, new skin cells through exfoliation.

Products that combine both cell regulating and exfoliating agents deliver a one-two punch: blocking melanin from reaching the surface and fading existing pigmentation through accelerated cell turnover. The two-pronged approach means results come faster and last long-term.

 

Which ingredients should you look for?

Tyrosinase inhibition      

• Mandelic acid
• Kojic acid
• Glycolic acid
• Aloe
• Vitamin C

Reduction in melanosome transfer    

• Niacinamide
• Vitamin A

Stimulation of cell-turnover      

• Vitamin A
• Mandelic acid
• Glycolic acid
• Kojic acid
• Lactic acid 

Products recommended for bright, even tone:

Mandelic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser: An invigorating scrub to clear cellular debris and enhance radiance. 

Daily Repair Pads: A brightening cocktail of acids and cell-regulators to clear dead skin cells and enhance the absorption of serums.

8% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Serum: A gentle, micro-exfoliating serum that targets both surface level and cellular level pigmentation.

Pure C + E: Combines antioxidant heroes vitamin C and vitamin E in a supercharged brightening and repairing complex.

True Tone: Advanced brightening and texture-enhancing ingredients for smooth, firm, luminous skin in all types and tones.

Totaloe Calming and Hydrating Gel: This non-greasy, lightly firming formula is healer, hydrator, and brightener in one.

 

How long does it take to fade excess pigment?

Because pigment resides in the base of the epidermis, bringing it up and out is not an overnight process. With time, patience, and the right products and regimen, everyone can achieve brighter, more consistent, even-toned skin.  

It usually takes four to six weeks to begin to see results. Use your products consistently and protect your skin from the sun with a daily sunscreen.