Skin spots. Just saying the words makes our hair stand on end. We're talking about those blemishes, usually on the face, that appear due to excessive melanin production. Or, rather, due to the activity of erratic melanocytes that deposit pigment where it shouldn't be deposited or in a disorganized way.
A two-fold phenomenon (hypo and hyper, generating white or dark spots, respectively) and multi-factorial in origin: hormonal chloasma and melasma; post-inflammatory (after acne, lesions, eczema...); or senile (those that arise from the normal aging cycle, as cell turnover slows down and the melanin formation process is altered, and instead of being deposited in the epidermis, it is deposited in the dermis, making them irreversible).
There are three key facts to consider if we want to control them: inflammation, a natural self-defense mechanism that automatically activates by producing more melanin to defend the cell nucleus where DNA resides. The depth at which the pigment is deposited; the deeper it is, the harder it is to eradicate. And the time they have been present on the skin (the more recent ones are easier to mitigate).
"Air pollution represents a real threat to hyperpigmentation-prone skin due to the inflammation of the epidermis caused by pollutant particles on our skin," Pedro Catalá, Doctor of Pharmacy and creator of Twelve Beauty
Anti-blemish cosmetics, a marketing invention or exponential improvement?
At this point in the melodrama, many will wonder, does cosmetics really work? But the truth is that it can be a great ally to prevent, minimize (and even eradicate) skin spots. Provided that we take into account the three key factors: origin (hormonal, post-inflammatory or senile), depth (dermis or epidermis) and time (old or new). Post-inflammatory spots, short-lived and superficial, are the main candidates for a favorable response with a good cosmetic product.
"Cosmetics have made great strides in treating skin spots and uneven skin tone. Formulas are now more delicate, with botanical blends, such as floral extracts, plant distillates, and seed oils, that work synergistically to brighten and correct uneven tones." Pedro Catalá
Because, to treat spots, you have to strictly follow a four-step protocol: prevent, with physical sunscreens, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, micronized minerals (not nano) capable of absorbing and dispersing UVA and UVB rays. Remove melanin from the surface with adequate exfoliation; block the enzyme responsible for melanin formation (tyrosinase); and eliminate the oxygen required for melanin formation with the help of antioxidants.
Preventing by protecting, the previous step for spotless skin
This is the conclusion reached by most medical and scientific studies: protection against ultraviolet radiation (today extendable to blue light emitted by electronic devices and environmental pollution) is the anti-aging care with the most endorsements. Blocking all types of radiation and exposure to environmental particles prevents oxidative stress, cell damage, and irregular pigmentation.
It is not surprising that creating a product that meets all requirements is one of the greatest formulation challenges. This is the case of Artemisia Power Protection Moisturiser SPF 50+, an anti-pollution, mattifying day emulsion with Buddleja extract that repairs cells from damage caused by radiation, especially UVB rays, which can penetrate the ozone layer, blue light and infrared, preventing the appearance of skin blemishes.
In addition to Artemisia extract, one of the most potent natural antioxidants capable of neutralizing free radicals formed during sun exposure and air pollution. 100% natural and non-nano mineral protection (the particles are large enough not to penetrate and act only on the surface, where they should act). Meticulously handcrafted with plant-based emollients capable of resisting heat, such as Meadowfoam oil, with a unique non-dense composition yet capable of resisting heat and oxidation.
Treat with Ideal Brightening, Twelve Beauty's most reviewed product
The reason why it is one of the products with the best reviews is for one reason only: because it works! "I developed Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum not only to provide the skin with the most effective nutrients to counteract melanin production and deposits, but also to give it a boost of healthy luminosity." Dr. Pedro Catalá
With Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum, its effect is noticeable in the short term. This is one of its great strengths. While it usually takes about three months to see results with this category of products because skin spots originate in deeper layers of the skin and cell turnover is necessary, improvement in tone unification and the desired "good face" effect can be seen from the first applications.
How does it achieve this? The magic of this serum does not come from a single active ingredient, but from botanical synergy. A blend of several extracts (mint, yarrow, mallow, artemisia, imperatoria, willowherb, veronica, lemon balm...) that inhibit the enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis, improve tone, reduce inflammation, and enhance radiance.
Twelve Beauty Tip: If you have a big event, apply a generous layer of Ideal Brightening the night before as a sleeping mask. Leave it on all night, and you'll wake up with radiant skin.