Finding dark spots and dark patches in unwanted areas? Our SkinCeuticals, La Roche-Posay, Vichy and Dermablend Expert is here to share tips and tricks for taking on post-summer discoloration!

Summer is all about fun in the sun, but too much UV exposure (and too little sunscreen) can send the skin’s pigment-producing cells into overdrive. Sun-induced spots can range from a few extra freckles to larger dark patches on the forehead or cheeks, and now’s the time to get your skin back on track. Taking a comprehensive approach that includes both prevention and correction is key for an even skin tone, and remember that daily sunscreen use year-round is the best way to maintain a spotless complexion.

Stop spots at the source

Dark spots don’t just form out of nowhere. A chain of events (often triggered by sun exposure) results in the formation of unwanted pigment, so an effective solution needs to target each phase of the cycle that leads to visible discoloration. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense is a lightweight, daily-use serum that helps prevent dark spots, promote the skin’s natural exfoliation process and improve the appearance of existing discoloration with a potent blend of tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide and HEPES (a sulfonic acid).

Improve existing discoloration

The key to improving the appearance of existing spots is targeting the actual pigment, and exfoliating ingredients help slough off the layers of the skin where discoloration resides. Discolored cells rise to the surface as the skin naturally renews itself over time, and acid-based exfoliation helps send them on their way. La Roche-Posay Mela-D Pigment Control features exfoliating glycolic and lipo hydroxy acids plus skin-soothing Thermal Dermobiotic to gently yet effectively improve the appearance of uneven skin tone as it helps smooth surface texture and enhance skin radiance for an overall brighter, healthier-looking complexion.

Add an antioxidant

Vitamin C has been proven to improve the appearance of discoloration, and this skin-friendly antioxidant ingredient offers protection against the free radical damage that can prompt dark spots as well. An essential in any morning skincare routine, Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum’s multitasking paraben- and fragrance-free formula combines the proven brightening, anti-aging and antioxidant benefits of vitamin C plus hyaluronic acid’s instant hydrating and skin-plumping effects—plus visible improvement in radiance and the feeling of skin firmness in just 10 days. P.S. It has also won a number of accolades, most notably a Beauty O-Ward from O, The Oprah Magazine.

Even out skin tone instantly

Want a quick, skin-perfecting fix while your skincare products work on providing long-term improvement in the appearance of dark spots? The secret is a natural-looking foundation that offers just the right amount of coverage. Dermablend Flawless Creator Foundation Drops puts you in control, whether you use one drop to even out skin tone or build the coverage to conceal stubborn dark patches. The versatile oil-free, water-free, buildable formula can be used on its own or mixed with skincare or other cosmetics (such as highlighter) to create a truly customized result.

Want to learn more about the SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense and other dark spot correctors? Read more on our blog!