First, exfoliation of the top epidermal layers (the Stratum Corneum) in order to remove the current darkened areas which are primarily due to sun exposure. Ongoing exfoliation will also encourage a more rapid turnover of new epidermal skin cells that migrate from the bottom layers of the epidermis to the top layer of keratin protein on the skin’s surface. This rapid turnover will allow other brightening protocols to be more effective in less time. For best results use both mechanical exfoliators (scrubs) as well as natural exfoliators such as fruit enzymes (gentle but effective) and natural fruit acids (alpha hydroxy acids) which will provide immediate lighter and brighter skin appearance without damaging the skin’s melanin producing cells (melanocytes).
Second, in addition to exfoliation, the effects of melanin pigment in our epidermal cells can be mitigated by the use of clinically proven lightening ingredients. Skin lightening products in the past focused on inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme that plays a part in melanin production and delivery to the skin cells. We now know there are three ways to inhibit melanin pigment in epidermal cells. First, melanocytes (the cells which produce the pigment) can have their production activity reduced. Second, there are multiple ways of inhibiting tyrosinase; and third, the actual transmission of melanin to the epidermal cells can be inhibited. An ideal skin lightening product will have a combination of ingredients that address all three of these inhibiting methods. Key natural ingredientcombinations to look for to address all three functions are: bellisperennis extract,lemon peel bioferment, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (stable vitamin C), glucosamine, uvaursi extract (natural arbutin), niacinamide (vitamin B3), licorice root extract, ferula foetida extract, &boerhaaviadiffusia extract. Using a lightening product such as this, applied twice daily,will be quite effective in lightening the skin over time. Real results begin to show after four weeks of use when the first new turnover of new epidermal cells begin to externally appear. Ongoing use will continue to lighten skin further over a ninety day period.
The third best tip is what to avoid. First, obviously, is sun exposure or artificial tanning methods. These will definitely increase melanin production. Use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure even with sunscreen. Second, avoid certain treatment ingredients that can be harmful. Topical steroids can give short term results but have definite unwanted side effects. Hydroquinone was popular in the past as a skin lightening agent, but again there are unwanted side effects … about 70% of the users experience a deposition of yellow-brown pigment in the dermis, and it often has a negative impact on collagen and elastin. Hydroquinone is a banned substance in many countries and may also contribute to skin and renal cancer.
