What Causes Dullness and Dark Spots?
- UV Exposure – Triggers melanin production, leading to dark spots
- Inflammation – From acne, eczema, or even over-exfoliation
- Hormonal Changes – Like melasma during pregnancy or menopause
- Environmental Stress – Pollution and oxidative stress can dull skin
- Aging – Slower cell turnover leads to buildup and discoloration
The fix? Not bleaching creams or aggressive scrubs — but smart skincare that works with your skin’s rhythm, not against it.
The Real Brightening Heroes
Brightening products should do three things:
- Inhibit excess pigment production
- Speed up cell turnover
- Strengthen and soothe your skin barrier
Look for niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid, kojic acid, retinoids, alpha arbutin, and exfoliating acids like lactic or mandelic — all proven to reduce dark spots and boost overall radiance.