Hyperpigmentation, caused by an increase in the skin’s melanin content, has been called brown spots, age spots, liver spots, and post-breakout spots. It is not an adorable dot, but a spot which sounds a lot like “splotch” …a blemish, stain, imperfection, mark, discoloration. A spot we can do without, but how?
Irritation and inflammation are triggers for hyperpigmentation. Therefore, at the forefront of both treating, as well as preventing hyperpigmentation, should be the avoidance of known irritants and toxins in your skincare regimen, which unfortunately are so very common in most skin care lines. At Luzern, we steer clear of the “toxic 12”, avoiding irritants or inflammatory causing ingredients that contribute to hyperpigmentation and premature aging of the skin.
At Luzern, we have a special approach to seeing spots go. A pure, effective and uncompromising proprietary amalgam of advanced cosmeceuticals and BioSuisse plant actives. Ingredients such as stabilized vitamin C lightens and brightens; Gigawhite, a remarkable blend of seven BioSuisse plant extracts, inhibits tyrosinase (which is responsible for melanin production) to reduce hyperpigmentation; pumpkin enzyme ferment provides a gentle, healthy skin cell turnover, with no known irritating toxins or inflammatory ingredients in sight.
Serum Absolut V15, includes vitamins and minerals that protect the skin from the damage of UV rays, and lightens and brightens the complexion with 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, a.k.a. vitamin C (yep, that’s a high percentage…remember, at Luzern, we don’t compromise!) and Ascorbyl Acid Peptides. Vitamin peptides including A & E and mineral ferments, such as copper and zinc, act as potent antioxidants and facilitate cellular healing. End each day with this powerhouse multi-vitamin for your skin!
To target specific areas of pigmentation, or “spots,” reach for Serum Absolut Radiance. Key ingredients include Licorice, Bearberry and Aspergillus, which target unwanted pigment, lighten skin and even skin tone.
Exfoliation is essential in all skin care regimes, especially in the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Nuit Hydra Enzyme Masque can be used as an all-night cream, or as a masque…great before a special event! Harnessing the power of BioSuisse plants and vitamin C, along with the gentle exfoliation from fermented pumpkin enzyme, this luscious cream-mask hydrates and brightens for a luminous and radiant complexion.
For greater cellular turnover, turn to our L’Essentials AHA Exfoliation Pads. Like an instant facial, our pre-soaked peel pads deliver 10% Lactic Alpha Hydroxy Acid and 1% Plant-Derived Salicylic Acid to encourage the shedding of dull, dead surface cells. With Vitamin C and 7 Swiss Alpine Organics that target lifting and luminosity, skin is renewed and radiant immediately, with results amplifying over time.
Sun damage is another causative factor for hyperpigmentation and thus sun protection is a crucial component in preventing hyperpigmentation. There are two categories of sun protection ingredients: chemical and mineral. Zinc oxide falls under the mineral sun protection ingredient category. This mineral sunscreen acts similarly to a shingle on a roof, or a tin-foil effect, reflecting UV rays. Luzern uses mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide. Unlike chemical sunscreens containing Oxybenzone or Octinoxate, which have an Environmental Working Group hazard score of 8 and 6 respectively (that’s quite high!), zinc oxide carries no associated risk and offers superior sun protection. To further protect skin from premature aging and pigmentary conditions, skin needs potent antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, green tea and plant polyphenols. Luzern’s La Defense SPF 30 is a broad spectrum, mineral sunscreen packed with antioxidants, moisturizers and tyrosinase inhibitors. You will also love the clean, natural aroma and beautiful feel.
Wishing you a bright and sunny Spring!
Krista McKowen, L.E.
Krista McKowen has over three decades of industry experience. Her writing has been featured in Dermascope, Skin, Inc magazines and on Spa Professional Mexico. Additionally, she has been a featured speaker at numerous skin care conventions.
