Pigmentation is mostly caused by excess sun exposure. The UV radiation from the sun, damages the pigment-producing cells in the skin (melanocytes), causing them to overproduce melanin and deposit it in clumps in sun-exposed areas. If not actively removed, these sun spots accumulate and increase in numbers with time. Brightening creams help to reduce the appearance of unwanted pigmentation.
An effective skin brightener is kojic acid, it works by inhibiting tyrosinase (enzyme that plays a critical role in the production of melanin. Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen, absorbing UV radiation and protecting the skin from sunburn and DNA damage.). For more effectiveness, it is best to combine it with an exfoliating agent for better penetration, such as AHA or retinoid.
Another skin brightener is niacinamide (a form of vitamin B that helps with wrinkles and pigmentation).
