We’ve got a question for everyone who doesn’t slather on sunscreen religiously: first of all, why? Secondly: okay, seriously, why? At the risk of sounding like a broken tape record, we’ve reiterated over and over again that the sun’s UV rays are your skin’s worst enemy – it is known to damage cells and DNA which speeds up signs of ageing. This, then, potentially leads to cancer. Barring that, UV rays are also known to react with skin, thus prompting it to produce more melanin to shield you from skin damage. That, essentially, is how your tan comes about.
And while that’s fine and dandy and all, it also means that there is more room for hyperpigmentation to occur — yes, even if you already have a darker skin tone. Eep. If this sounds eeriely familiar, well, perhaps it’s time to admit that you’ve been less than stringent with your sun protection. Not to fret, though. We’ve given a rundown of the best melanin-control routine to engage in so as to remedy that. Here’s all you gotta know:
Step one: Cleanser
Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
A good cleanser is worth investing in — and no, we don’t mean those 3-in-1 variations. This one does the job by buffing melanocytes away, aka the cells that produce melanin located on the topmost layer of our skin. This is done via AHAs. The inclusion of blueberry extract, on the other hand, will fight off free radicals to prevent premature ageing. Win-win.
Step three: Serum or essence
Orbis White Clear Essence (Day)
No more playing around — it’s time to bring out the big guns. In this case, it’s the latest addition to the Orbis family. Its White Clear Essence harbours all the capabilities of a skincare powerhouse: the inclusion of a revolutionary ingredient to evenly distribute melanin (m-pixenol); a bevy of moisturising factors; and a barrier wrap formula to seal all that goodness in.
You’re probably wondering: “What the heck is mandelic acid?.” Well, in short: it is a lesser-known AHA — derived from almonds — that is great for sensitive skin. This product uses a blend of mandelic, lactic, and salicylic acid to penetrate deep into the skin to brighten it. Chemical exfoliators are also great for increasing our cell turnover rate, which allows for newer, brighter skin faster.
Step four: Moisturiser
With the use of the serums suggested above, applying retinol-based products could irritate your skin frther. And so, bakuchiol proves a great alternative; this plant-based ingredient functions in the same way where it minimises fine lines and hyperpigmentation without causing irritation. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly.
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