Many women complain of skin darkening after applying Vitamin C serum. It is probably because they fail to layer it with a hydrating moisturizer. Leaving the serum alone on the face allows it to react with the oxygen present in the air.
After contact with light, heat and air, vitamin C eventually oxidizes and loses its potency. You'll know it when your serum changes colour, turning brown.
Certain skincare products which contain photosensitive ingredients can make the skin darker if exposed to the sun. Examples include most lightening ingredients e.g. hydroquinone, AHA (alpha hydroxyl acids), Retinol, certain essential oils e.g. citrus based ones etc.
As you may already know, vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid (specifically L-ascorbic acid) oxidises easily. This is when it decomposes and turns into a number of other substances that likely have much less benefits for skin, and it gradually darkens in colour during this process.
DOES HYALURONIC ACID DARKEN SKIN? No, hyaluronic acid does not darken skin. In fact, it can actually help to reduce pigmentation, which is when our skin has dark spots or patches. It actually helps to hydrate and brighten the skin rather than darkening it.
With a low molecular weight, Hyaluronic Acid targets deep rehydration, resulting in a more even and longer-lasting tan. It also makes your skin appear more youthful – but the benefits don't end there … It prevents moisture from evaporating: Hyaluronic Acid actually absorbs moisture from its surroundings.
As the body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, this substance rarely causes severe side effects or allergic reactions. However, people who have a history of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, should be cautious when using hyaluronic acid.
The reason the skin is darkened when using Retinol is because this substance can make your skin more sensitive to light, if you are regularly exposed to the sun without effective skin protection, it will cause tanning.
Darker areas of skin (or an area that tans more easily) occurs when you have more melanin or overactive melanocytes. Bronzing of the skin may sometimes be mistaken for a suntan. This skin discoloration often develops slowly, starting at the elbows, knuckles, and knees and spreading from there.
Use a gradual self tanning lotion. Gradual self tanners are the most natural looking and easy to control, but will take a 4-7 days to get you the results you're looking for. If you're not in a hurry, a gradual self tanning lotion is recommended. Get a self tanning spray.
Many women complain of skin darkening after applying Vitamin C serum. It is probably because they fail to layer it with a hydrating moisturizer. Leaving the serum alone on the face allows it to react with the oxygen present in the air.
In their quest for the perfect tan, some people may look for a "magic pill" that will help them achieve this with minimal exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are no such pills approved for this purpose.
In the clinical studies, niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use.
What Oils Darken Skin. Some oils darken skin tone, Emu oil gives you one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. But oils like coconut oil, almond oil, olive oil do not whiten or darken your skin complexion.
Harsh Chemicals in the Skincare
The products you use on your skin can also be the reason for your skin getting darker. Your facial skin is sensitive compared to the skin on the rest of the body. So any regular skin care products you apply can manifest as dry patches, age spots, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation.
Does Vitamin C really darken my skin? No, it does not. It may stain your skin but it cannot darken your skin.
Every beauty product is unique, like every individual's skin. Therefore, the reaction of a product on someone's skin can be different. While a moisturizer brings a beautiful radiance to some people, it might darken the skin in others.
Natural Oils
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that helps in reducing dark spots on the skin. The mixture of these two oils is very effective to prevent and reduce pigmentation.
Some people find that topical retinol lightens their skin spots, though it takes months and can be irritating to your skin. It's a good idea to see a dermatologist (a medical doctor who specializes in conditions of the skin) if you're concerned about dark spots.
Topical retinoids are highly effective in treating acne and can also improve hyperpigmentation due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
No, retinol is not a skin lightening agent and will not lighten your skin. However, retinol does remove dead skin cells revealing a more even complexion. So retinol won't lighten your skin, but retinol will help even/blend out any hyperpigmentation.
If you are receiving radiation therapy, don't use hyaluronic acid on your skin. Hardening of skin and connective tissue (scleroderma): Applying hyaluronic acid to the skin might make skin ulcers worse in people who have a condition called scleroderma. If you have scleroderma, don't use hyaluronic acid on your skin.