Decrease Melanin Production With These Products

Too much time in the sun without adequate sun protection can cause sun spots, freckles, and patches of pigmented skin. Your body produces extra melanin to protect itself from environmental damage, so you need to use skin care products that decrease melanin production. Products that contain compounds such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and tretinoin are particularly effective for lightening the skin and preventing future sun spots and freckles.

Incorporating at least one skin lightening cream, lotion, or serum into your weekly skin care regimen could be just what you need to maintain a clear and healthy-looking complexion. Here's what you need to know about using products that decrease melanin production:

1. Apply serums right after an at-home facial. Invest in a high-quality skin lightening serum that you can use at home. When your pores are open and more responsive to products after an at-home facial, you should take the opportunity to massage this serum into the skin. Try something such as the Image Ageless Total Skin Lightening Serum, $30, amazon.com, that contains a powerful blend of kojic acid, licorice, green tea, and vitamin C.

2. Ask about skin lightening treatments with microdermabrasion. If you're going to the spa for a professional microdermabrasion treatment, you should ask the aesthetician if he or she can use some type of skin lightening cream or serum as part of the treatment. Your skin is more responsive to any products applied right after this deep exfoliating treatment.

3. Use a skin lightening mask on a weekly basis. Facial masks infused with ingredients such as kojic acid and vitamin C can be effective for reducing hyperpigmentation and keeping your skin looking clear and even toned. If you're sensitive to hydroquinone, you should look for natural blends that contain a high concentration of kojic acid and vitamins. Many of these masks can help reduce skin discoloration and slow down or stop melanin production.