Historically, aging has been seen as a condition involving lines and wrinkles. New research has shown that markers of age on the skin also include uniformity in color. In fact, uniformity has shown to be just as strong an indicator of age as lines and wrinkles, says Jan Marini, founder of Jan Marini Skin Research. This new product gets to the root of the issue to deal with hyperpigmentation—a condition traditionally difficult to treat because of its many different causes.

hexylresorcinol

A relatively new lightening agent, it is non-toxic and even used in throat lozenges due to its antiseptic qualities. According to Marini, it is shown to be as effective as four-precent hydroquinone. It’s a very strong tyrosinase inhibitor, when used topically. The tyrosinase enzyme is involved in the production of melanin. Inhibiting the enzyme can produce a lightening effect.

green tea extract

This well-know ingredient is highly anti-inflammatory. “Individuals who have a tendency to discoloration are often exacerbated by any inflammation,” says Marini. “This inflammation can occur from pollution, stress, food or a variety of things encountered every day. Generally, the more anti-inflammatories used, the younger and better skin is going to look.”

salicylic acid

This standby is a beta hydroxy acid that has been around for decades and is readily available in many acne products. It resurfaces and brightens skin making it appear more uniform, smooth and luminous. It also decreases acne lesions, one cause of darker skin pigmentation.

retinol

If this ingredient is stabilized, an enzyme in skin converts it to retinoic acid, the same ingredient found in Retin-A, says Marini. “Retinoic acid can prevent less pigment from being thrown off into the skin. It can temper the production of melanin, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” she says. All retinoids are forms of vitamin A, but they are all configured in different ways so they hit specific receptor sites and help with skin functions.

kojic acid

This ingredient is derived from naturally occurring fungus on mushrooms, according to Marini. “It originated in Japan, and became the darling of the medical community because of its incredible skin-lightening effect,” she says. “Studies say that if it’s stabilized and formulated properly, it is the equivalent of using four- to five-percent hydroquinone.”

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