We measure the best brightening serums by the effectiveness of their antioxidant ingredients. Antioxidants refer to compounds that have the ability to fight free radical damage. This is common in all phytochemical compounds which derive from botanicals. It is important because most photoaging arises due to environmental damage in the form of UV radiation as well as environmental pollution. This causes oxidative stress that leads to reduced cell energy and repair abilities. Eventually, causing dull skin and lack of radiance.
When you use brightening serums, it is important that it also has minimal skin irritation. This is because the beauty industry markets a lot of vitamin C formulas as brightening. However, they actually have high concentrations of an acidic compound, the L-ascorbic acid. This may cause skin irritation in a lot of individuals. Especially so if you are using it in conjunction with other anti-aging ingredients such as retinol or retinoids. This can lead to skin redness and flaking. In turn, leading to inflammation that causes post inflammation hyperpigmentation,” according to Dr. Teo Wan Lin, accredited dermatologist and medical director of TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre.
We at Dermatologist Talks: Science of Beauty have rounded up the top seven brightening serums that you should keep your eyes on. These include potent phytochemicals present that can help to fight dull skin and improve your skin’s natural radiance.
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic
The secret to this serum is in its synergistic patented antioxidant combination of 15% L-ascorbic acid – the purest form of vitamin C, 1% alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E), and 0.5% ferulic acid. These combine to enhance protection against environmental damage, improving the signs of aging and photodamage. The end result is a product that brightens the skin and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
For more information, visit their website.
Dr. TWL Dermaceuticals Vita C Serum
An intensely concentrated serum containing nano-formulated, stabilized Vitamin C that revitalizes dull skin with anti-aging properties. Infused with potent botanical actives such as Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea). Scientific research has proven that the antioxidants in green tea are effective in preventing the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS )that can damage your skin, leading to an instant brightening effect. It is also formulated with the signature LARECEA™ extract that includes a combination of Brassica Oleracea and amino acids. This contains a 3 in 1 function of regeneration through collagen production, antioxidants, and helps to protect against UV exposure.
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Eucerin Spotless Brightening Booster Serum
A brightening serum that includes patented Thiamidol, this active ingredient is clinically proven to reduce dark spots. It also helps to prevent their re-appearance with fewer side effects compared to traditional anti-pigmentation ingredients. Formulated with hyaluronic acid that helps to retain moisture, this relaunched serum comes in a new mono-chamber packaging with the same proven efficacy for even and radiant skin.
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Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
This potent brightening serum contains 5 forms of vitamin C and active ingredients like guava, tranexamic & ferulic acids for even-toned, glowing skin. Delivering clinically effective ingredients in a stable formula, this silky, non-stick serum absorbs quickly into the skin while delivering a radiant glow. Suitable for all skin types, it also includes Vitamin C encapsulation technology. This helps to treat and prevent dark spots, brightening skin without harsh irritation.
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Laneige Perfect Renew Youth Regenerator
This serum contains active ingredients that directly target the loss of cell energy in aging skin cells using energy glycol – a combination of botanical dermocosmetics that stimulates the skin’s powerhouses in order to regenerate skin cells. It also includes the Superberry complex, with antioxidants acai berry and acerola extract, which is rich in plant phenols or anthocyanins. This potent antioxidant effect means that skin damage is reversible, leading to skin brightening.
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Dior Capture Totale Super Potent Serum
Promising visibly younger-looking skin, the Capture Totale Serum formula harnesses the power of Longoza, a unique floral complex that revives the energy potential and restores the regenerative power of stem cells – the skin’s core powerhouses. It is also infused with acetylated hyaluronic acid that penetrates the skin three times more, encapsulated in a fine, fast-absorbing texture that seamlessly sinks into the skin. By strengthening the barrier and improving suppleness from deep within, this serum restores the skin on every level.
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Mentholatum Acnes Pore Tightening Serum
This Pore Tightening Serum boasts active ingredients such as centella asiatica that soothes and repairs trouble irritated skin. As well as peptide and hyaluronic acid to moisturize and improve skin elasticity. With a lightweight, translucent jelly-like texture, it absorbs into the skin quickly, with effective brightening and moisturizing effects.
For more information, visit their website.