Adding specific acids into my routine too was a game-changing move for my skin—the right combination faded the hyperpigmentation, plumped the appearance of my skin and evened out the tone. In the past, when acid-based products used terms like brightening, I was always wary of them mainly because of the prevalence of skin-lightening products aimed at Black women that use similar terminology. However, having spoken to many medical professionals and skin experts who have filled me in on what specific acids do and what they’re good for, I now feel more confident incorporating them into my skincare routine, and I haven’t looked back since.
“If we look at brightening agents, there are alpha-hydroxy acids (aka AHAs) like kojic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid, plus alpha arbutin. This suppresses tyrosine, which is an enzyme that helps our bodies to produce melanin,” explains Estelle. “By blocking this tyrosine pathway, you’ll be less reactive to UV trauma and less at risk of hyperpigmentation. These ingredients will also help to prevent melanin-hyper synthesis in the cells.”
Given that hyperpigmentation is my biggest skin concern, I have never been happier with my skin than I am right now, and I know it’s down to these products…
