SAY GOODBYE TO HYPERPIGMENTATION

Words by Lucinda Dordley | Images: Supplied

Unwanted hyperpigmentation can be frustrating and distressing. Skin Functional’s new Melanoclear elixir has all the ingredients you need for an even complexion.

While hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern, it can be difficult to manage or resolve quickly.

“Pigmentation, also known as hyperpigmentation, occurs due to an increase in the number of pigment-producing cells in the skin called melanocytes, or the pigmented substance they produce called melanin,” says Kevin Khosa, customer service manager for Skin Functional.

“We formulate products that have reproducible results® and have optimal concentrations® that ensure the skin functions at its best. The new 5% Tranexamic Acid + 1% Hexylresorcinol Melanoclear elixir is a highly effective and potent skin treatment for epidermal hyperpigmentation and skin discolouration. This product is clinically proven to show a 20% reduction in age spots in 4 weeks and has significant antioxidant protection.”

Melasma is one of the most common forms of facial pigmentation and is likely to occur between the ages of 20 and 40. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including pregnancy and hormone levels, among others.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is also common, and can be caused by eczema, an acne flare-up or following an injury to the skin.

Freckles are a form of hyperpigmentation, but are different as it is an inherited characteristic. Freckles are typically darker when they are stimulated by UV rays and tend to fade during winter months.

Skin Functional’s 5% Tranexamic Acid + 1% Hexylresorcinol Melanoclear elixir contains a number of ingredients that target and soothe hyperpigmentation, including:

Kojic Acid is a spot-fading and skin-brightening ingredient. It naturally inhibits the production of melanin in the skin. The pathway that leads to excess melanin or pigment is complex, but at the heart of the matter is an enzyme called tyrosinase. Kojic acid blocks the UV activation of tyrosinase, thereby limiting melanin production.

Tranexamic Acid is a lesser-known skincare ingredient that may help with discolouration and other skin concerns. It’s safe for most skin types. When applied topically, it can alter how cells produce melanin, the pigment that gives your skin colour. It interrupts pathways in the skin that might otherwise lead to an uneven skin tone while protecting the skin barrier, reducing dark spots and sun damage.

Hexylresorcinol is known to function as a skin-brightening agent. It also possesses antioxidants, as well as astringent properties, that can contribute towards a more even tone complexion. By providing antioxidant protection, hexylresorcinol can help neutralise free radicals present in the environment.

“The new Melanoclear Elixir contains all three of these powerful active ingredients and therefore has shown to produce massive results with consistent use. In testing this product showed to be 2 - 4 times more effective than hydroquinone, it inhibits 8 pathways of melanin synthesis, the most a product can inhibit and has significant reduction in pro-inflammatory biomarker NK-kB and antioxidant protection,” adds Khosa.