Many of us face the challenge of uneven skin tone when the sun comes out in full force. As much as we enjoy the beautiful warm sunlight, we don’t particularly love a splotchy complexion. Typical cosmetic approaches to fading hyperpigmentation can leave the skin photosensitive, which in turn undermines the benefits when avoiding the sun is difficult. And let’s face it, avoiding the sun puts a damper on enjoying life over the brighter days!
Fortunately, new sun-safe formulations combine ingredients that inhibit melanin production rather than to rely on bleaching agents. These new formulations make it possible to even out the skin tone without intensifying its vulnerability to the sun. At Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare, we work with brands that continually research to enhance product performance without compromising the health and beauty of the skin. We’re pleased to share with Oakville clients a new, non-retinol skin brightener from ZO® Medical.
ZO® Medical Brightalive™
Developed by Zein Obagi, MD, this concentrated brightening formula addresses pigment management from multiple angles. The approach uses clinically proven alpha-arbutin, an extract from the bearberry plant, which inhibits the tyrosinase enzyme that activates melanin formation. This along with bioengineered plant phytotechnology, ultra-stable vitamin C and an advanced exfoliating enzyme help reverse uneven pigmentation and encourage epidermal renewal for even skin tone and texture. This is further reinforced with a combination of peptides, compounds and plant extracts such as hexylresorcinol, soy and licorice root that target the pathways that lead to pigmentation.
A key component to managing pigmentation is reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin. The ZO® Medical Brightalive™ formulation reduces the appearance of brown spots, evens skin tone and prevents new pigmentation, and has an exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex (vitamins A, C and E). This provides continuous protection against oxidative stress, restores hydration to replenish vital moisture balance and encourages the natural DNA repair process.
What can you expect from your pigment relief efforts?
Just as with any goal, it can take time to see changes and results in the skin. Daily application of the formulation is required in order to realize the benefits. Continued use is also required to maintain results.
Hyperpigmentation is a stubborn condition and requires constant and consistent efforts to keep it at bay. Any unprotected sun exposure can activate the damaged melanocyte cells that lead to brown spots. With this in mind, you can consider your pigment relief efforts like a daily ritual or habit that you do without question, like washing your face or brushing your teeth.
Complement your at-home treatment with in-office solutions.
In order to see substantial improvements to your skin tone, your at-home skin brightening efforts can be supported with in-office treatments such as clinical peels or fotofacials. Both approaches are non-invasive and excellent strategies to manage hyperpigmentation and repair sun damage that leads to other signs of aging such as fine lines and enlarged pores.
Curious how you can maintain an even skin tone all year round with products like ZO® Medical Brightalive™ and in-office cosmetic treatments? Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare invites you to book a complimentary consultation with our medical aesthetician. She will help map out a plan tailored specifically to your skin’s needs. Contact us at 905.901.9545 or [email protected] to arrange an appointment.
