Luma Grothe for L’Oreal.

Seemingly overnight, winter has arrived, which means overhauling my beauty routine. With a little too much fun had in summer, my skin’s been left a little worse for wear, particularly when it comes to unevenness. Though we’re constantly heeding advice about how to avoid these, including not picking at blemishes and doubling down on sun protection, the reality is that hyperpigmentation can still find us, and I know this very well. In many cases, it comes down to genetics, anyway. Luckily, part of my job is getting to trial out the latest solutions on the market to get my skin back to its best shape, and there’s one hero product that’s been delivering rapid results in my quest for even skin.

Formulated as a potent brightening tool, the L’Oréal Paris’ Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum is dermatologist-backed and scientifically proven to visibly fade many types of dark spots, including post-acne marks, age spots and sunspots—and very quickly, I might add. What I thought would be a season-long marathon of fighting a dull complexion has actually turned out to be more of a sprint, with most of my sunspots already visibly faded after just a few weeks of use.

Hyperpigmentation is caused by various factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, as well as good old genetics. But this powerhouse blend of actives will target those pesky dark spots with precision, thanks to the hero ingredient here: niacinamide. A form of Vitamin B3 that’s been making waves in the skincare world for its multifaceted benefits. With 7.5 percent niacinamide, this serum addresses dark spots and improves skin texture, minimises pores, and reduces visible redness.

L'Oréal Paris' Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum
L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum

According to Melbourne-based dermatologist Dr Lee-Mei Yap, niacinamide is widely recommended by dermatologists for its host of benefits.

It’s not only suitable for a variety of skin types, including those with sensitive skin, but as Dr Yap supports, niacinamide is also versatile enough to play well with others in your arsenal. “Niacinamide is among my favourite skincare ingredients due to its versatility and suitability for all skin types,” she tells me. “It is an essential component of any skincare routine addressing skin concerns such as skin ageing, blemishes, pigmentation and acne.”

“I particularly appreciate the serum’s compatibility with other serums like Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Retinol, allowing for seamless layering,” she adds, meaning that you won’t have to indulge in the mental gymnastics of divvying up your favourite serums.

Beyond its pigment-reducing benefits, Dr Yap also recommends niacinamide for its role in restoring and fortifying the skin moisture barrier by enhancing ceramide production—something we often neglect when tackling hyperpigmentation.

With 2.5 percent amino-sulfonic acid to compliment the niacinamide, this serum also offers a gentle surface exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells to reveal a clearer, more even complexion.

Together, these ingredients not only visibly fade existing dark spots—with scientifically proven efficacy to boot—but also work to prevent new spots from forming.

Though it all sounds like a lot, this hardworking serum’s genius is in its ultra-lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that your skin will drink up without any greasy residue.

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L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum, $59.99 SHOP NOW

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