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Due to months of constant UV exposure from our scorching sun, it’s impossible to avoid hyperpigmentation in the form of dark spots, scars, freckles, and discoloration that persistently plague the women of our region. The brown specks you find splattered on your face after reposing poolside are the result of sun exposure, which sets skin-darkening melanin into overdrive. Dark spots can show up immediately in the form of freckles, or, years later as a result of long-term sun-damage and can be extremely difficult to treat. Of course, the beauty industry loves a challenge, and has rolled out a new wave of dark-spot correctors, serums, and creams designed to eradicate existing discoloration and reveal a brighter and more even complexion.
The Shiseido White Lucent MicroTargeting Spot Corrector (US $130; AED/SAR 477) uses patented brightening technology to take on stubborn spots. Combined with the MultiBright Night Cream (US $90; AED/SAR 331)—which suppresses excess melanin production—the appearance of dark spots, acne scars, and an uneven skin tone are significantly reduced.
The Nuxe White Anti Dark Spot Serum (US $48; AED/SAR 176) combines Vitamin C, white crocus, lily, and rose flowers to take on imperfections and improve the luminosity of the complexion by attempting to block all of the steps of melanogenesis—the process whereby melanin is produced.
Guerlain’s Blanc de Perle range features a foaming cleanser, lotion, whitening essence, and a day and night cream pumped with a blend of ingredients such as glycerin and citric acid, which are proven to be effective in fading dark specks and lightening the skin tone. The Blanc de Perle Double-Action Spot Eraser (US $71; AED/SAR 261) controls hyperpigmentation by regulating the production of melanin to not only treat existing dark spots, but to prevent them as well.
Naturally, the best cure is prevention. Once you’ve achieved clear, flawless skin, the objective is to maintain it with sunscreen to fend off dark spots and hyperpigmentation before they even get a chance to set in. The Clinique Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Cream (US $22; AED/SAR 81) is an oil-free sun protectant that won’t irritate sensitive skin, and shields your dermis from the aging and damaging effects of the sun.
—Khaoula Ghanem
Homepage image: Photographed by Mario Testino, Vogue, May 2007
