These skincare products can help treat hyperpigmentation

Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector, $85, Kiehl's

Credit: Kiehl's

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A cult favourite for many, we can clearly see why this particular serum from Kiehl's has been a staple for most of us. Formulated with Activated C and buffered Salicylic Acid, this serum targets dark spots, hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks. Made with skin-loving ingredients that are suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin, you'll notice a more even skin tone and a boost in your skin's radiance after continuous use.

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Concentrated Serum, $13, The Ordinary from Lookfantastic

Credit: Lookfantastic

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If you're looking for a beginner-friendly option that doesn't break the bank, consider The Ordinary's Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Concentrated Serum. This lightweight formula not absorbs quickly into the skin, but it also brightens your skin as it is formulated with 2% alpha arbutin that works to reduce the production of melanin. The hyaluronic acid in the serum, on the other hand, works deep beneath the skin's surface, which in turn, helps to promote a more even-toned complexion.

Skin Reset Concentrated Even Skin Tone Serum, $140,Emma Lewisham from Net-A-Porter

Credit: Net-A-Porter

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Emma Lewisham grew up worshiping New Zealand’s harsh summer sun and by her late 20s she started noticing discolouration and brown spots. But it was only during her pregnancy that Lewisham’s uneven complexion really knocked her confidence. As a result, she set about creating a product that dealt with hyperpigmentation while remaining free of toxins, fillers, synthetic chemicals, and artificial colours and fragrances. Take for instance, the Skin Reset Concentrated Even Skin Tone Serum that's formulated with skin-beautifying ingredients that target different skin concerns.

Prickly Pear and Sea Buckthorn helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines, while Niacinamide and Edelweiss Stem Cells strengthen the natural barrier for a youthful glow. More importantly, the formula also consists of Patented Plant Stem Cell Extract that helps to actively fade dark spots over time.

Mandelic Pigmentation Corrector Night Serum, $150, Allies Of Skin

Credit: Allies Of Skin

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This next-generation overnight serum from home-grown clean skincare brand, Allies of Skin, is supercharged with a hardworking blend of 11 per cent Mandelic, Lactic + Salicylic acid, eight brighteners and seven antioxidants and peptides, helping to treat stubborn pigmentation, melasma, large pores, persistent breakouts, uneven texture and even blackheads. While most AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acids) serums focus only on the exfoliation aspect that can sometimes lead to tightness and irritation, this multitasking booster is formulated to not only gently dissolve dead skin cells but also replenish moisture and strengthen the skin’s delicate barrier, with its hydrating blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and essential fatty acids from organic rosehip and tamanu oil.

Professional Grade IPL Dark Spot Concentrated Serum, $161.50, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare from Lookfantastic

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Part of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare’s Clinical Grade range, the brand’s Professional Grade IPL Dark Spot Concentrated Serum boasts an innovative formula straight from his practice formulated to help fade the look of stubborn dark spots and discolouration for an even and radiant complexion. Jam-packed with 10 per cent L-ascorbic acid, lactic acid, kojic acid, and arbutin, this pro-level formula is clinically shown to reduce the appearance of sunspots, age spots, and dark patches in just a few weeks.

Fair Complex Serum, $239, IDS Skincare from Kris Shop

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IDS is a skincare line made to deliver highly visible results that surpass those achieved by most prescription products, without the side effects they often cause. The brand’s Fair Complex comes with a proprietary formulation of peptides and active ingredients that everyone can benefit from, regardless of skin tone. Alongside lines and wrinkles, skin dullness and hyperpigmentation it also works to target the signs of ageing. The skin-brightening formula is hydroquinone-free, but coupled with state-of-the-art ingredients and IDS’ patented Neulastin technology, it effectively prevents melanin over-production and visibly counteracts age spots and hyperpigmentation without irritations or side effects.

Lumiclar Pure Vitamin C15, $69.90, Derma Lab

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Formulated with 15 per cent dermatological-grade Vitamin C (one of the highest in the market), Derma Lab’s Lumiclar Pure Vitamin C15 penetrates deep into the skin’s epidermis and rapidly evens out the complexion for a radiant glow. Together with ultra-stable forms of ascorbic acid, skin becomes brighter, firmer, and more lifted. Vitamin C’s powerful antioxidant properties also reinforce the skin’s defence against free radicals, while the Derma Mimic Complex locks in moisture and strengthens skin barrier for hydrated, healthier skin.

T.L.C Framboos Glycolic Night Serum, $195, Drunk Elephant from Sephora

Credit: Sephora

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Drunk Elephant’s T.L.C Framboos Glycolic Night Serum is a high-tech gel that resurfaces dull skin, lifting dead skin cells away by gently dissolving the glue that holds them to the surface. Formulated with a combination of glycolic, lactic, tartaric, citric and salicylic acids, and blended with raspberry extract, T.L.C. Framboos sinks in easily and delivers an effective level of chemical exfoliation without the harsh side effects like dryness or sensitisation. Fine lines, wrinkles, and discolouration, along with excess oiliness and the appearance of pores, will appear dramatically reduced. Meanwhile, horse chestnut, bearberry, and white tea help to calm and soothe while improving the appearance of broken capillaries.

Brightly Ever After Essence, $44.90, Huxley

Credit: Huxley

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A South Korean skincare brand that has recently launched in Singapore, Huxley’s products are formulated around Sahara-sourced prickly pear, which is rich in vitamin E and brimming with antioxidants to prevent moisture from escaping while promoting healthy skin cell production for a more resilient, youthful appearance. The brand’s Brightly Ever After Essence offers a light, milky-textured formula that targets uneven skin tone, dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It’s also enriched with niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B with brightening properties that aids in reducing dullness for an even skin tone.



This article was first published in Harper's Bazaar Singapore.