Goodbye discolouration, hello smooth, even skin

Pimples, blackheads and dry, flaky skin are all common complexion concerns that are generally easy enough to remedy. Hyperpigmentation…well, not so much.

For those of you suffering from the dreaded discolouration and/or dark spots, you’ll know how frustrating a process it can be to go through product after product in an attempt to achieve an even skin tone.

Luckily, it looks like there’s new hope on the horizon with a couple of new technologically advanced anti-pigmentation products in Clinique’s Even Better range.

We chat to Dr Janet Pardot, Senior Vice President Clinique Product Development Worldwide, and Dr Tom Mammone, Executive Director of Clinique Research and Development, to get the low-down on the latest…

What exactly is hyperpigmentation?

TM: Hyperpigmentation is an increase in the skin’s normal pigmentation in a particular area and can be caused as a result of exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays, acne scarring, age spots and hormonal changes.

How do Clinique’s Even Better products work? And how are they different to the other anti-pigmentation products out there?

JP:Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector is the first available dark spot corrector from a prestige cosmetics brand clinically proven to perform equal to a leading prescription drug ingredient for evening skin tone. To take our science to the next level, we used a formulation that test studies showed delivered the same results as four percent Hydroquinone – believed to be the gold standard in treating hyperpigmentation – but did so without the redness, irritation and limitations associated with using such high percentages.

We used our formulation in conjunction with a rare botanical extract, derived from Dianella Ensifolia (Border Silver). It is a powerful antioxidant and, when coupled with our existing hyperpigmentation technology, it gave us the push to take our skin tone results to a prescription level.

TM: The Even Better products work like an eraser. Our core ingredients help reduce the appearance of discolorations, disperse the appearance of melanin ‘dust’ on the skin’s surface, and exfoliate them away to show clarity in the skin. Additional active ingredients also help protect and shield the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays – both leading causes of hyperpigmentation.

Do the new products contain whitening agents that will affect the skin?

JP: Clinique does not use bleaching agents and feels that it is critical to find gentle ways to help fade the appearance of dark spots. Even Better Clinical is safe, gentle and non-irritating.

Do you need to use the Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer SPF 15 with the Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector serum? Will it produce better results?

TM: Clinique’s products are designed to be layered. When used together, age spots are lighter, skin clearer and results are seen even faster. In addition it is crucial to use a daily sunscreen as UV exposure is the number one cause of hyperpigmentation. Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer SPF 15 provides the UV protection while treating and preventing uneven skin tone.

How long until you see results?

JP: Immediate results include improved clarity and brightness, but with consistent use twice a day, results can be seen within four weeks.

Will the hyperpigmentation return if you stop using Even Better products?

TM: Hyperpigmentation is always potentially lurking below the surface waiting to put in an appearance as a result of environmental exposure. So it is important to continue a daily beauty regime to obtain beautiful, healthy-looking skin.

Is there anything else that women can do to avoid future hyperpigmentation?

JP: Sun protection is extremely important. Clinique always recommends wearing a daily sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher. When possible, also try to avoid environmental stressors, such as UV that can trigger excess melanin synthesis. In addition, using a daily skincare regimen that is appropriate for your skin type will help keep skin happy, healthy, and not irritated.