What are the best skin-lightening ingredients?

Vitamin C: Great for lightening skin

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is ideal for lightening skin suffering from melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). It is an antioxidant that inhibits free radicals and regulates the production of melanin and its main benefits are to lighten the skin, improve its texture as well as smooth wrinkles and fine lines.

Hydroquinone

This compound is considered the best for treating excessive melanin production, however, it is highly regulated and irritating. It cannot be used for long periods because it could cause the opposite effect.

In addition, it has some side effects such as sensitivity, and irritation, among others, and it cannot be used by pregnant women. It is ideal for fading sun spots or HPI spots because it decreases melanin production. You should use it only on the affected sections, not all over your skin to avoid irritation.

Its use must be progressive and controlled and its results are seen in approximately three to six months, you must be consistent with its application.

Kojic Acid

It is a natural alternative to hydroquinone, in addition to having numerous benefits including lightening the skin, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-ageing properties, it is rich in antioxidants, among others.

This acid is obtained thanks to the fermentation of rice, sake or soybeans and can also be called: fermented soybean extract, fermented rice extract or filtered rice extract. It can be used for any type of skin, it is safe for pregnant women, but it can cause dermatitis and sunburn if sun protection is not used.

Liquorice extract (Licorice extract)

This extract hinders melanin production, fights free radicals and UV damage, soothes inflamed skin, and regulates sebum production.

Azelaic acid

This compound is ideal for sensitive skin, and for those who suffer from post-inflammatory erythema (PID), acne, or rosacea. It reduces inflammation and treats acne.

Retinol

Vitamin A or retinol decreases the transfer of melanin to your cells, it is ideal if you suffer from IPH or melasma. Although it does not have the same effectiveness as hydroquinone in lightening the skin, it can be of great help due to its accelerating effect on cell renewal.

AHA’s

Alpha hydroxy acids are derived from fruit or plant extracts, they help lighten the skin because they stimulate cell renewal.

Niacinamide

Vitamin B3 or niacinamide is ideal for lightening sensitive skin suffering from melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), it works by interfering with the absorption of melanin.

Arbutin

This compound is an extract derived from the bearberry, blueberries and It decreases the production of melanin and is an excellent alternative for pregnant women.

Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide:

These compounds are ideal in your sunscreen, they provide mineral protection, they do not irritate or inflame and they will surely help you lighten your skin.

Conclusion

To lighten your skin you must know the type of spots you have and apply the appropriate component. Prevention with sun protection is essential in all skincare routines and unavoidable if you want to lighten your skin.