Read this before you buy a dark spot corrector

A dark spot corrector can erase patches of over-pigmentation to give sun damaged and mature skin a clearer, even tone.

But before you splash out on an expensive product, it's worth knowing that you can achieve a similar - and often quicker - result with much cheaper skincare products.

Brightening products, especially serums, can cost less than half the price of a 'corrector'.

So, what's the difference?

Below, I will explain how you can banish those tell-tale signs of ageing without breaking the bank nor having to wait months to see an improvement.

"I can honestly say I love getting older. Then again, I never put my glasses on before looking in the mirror." – Cherie Lunghi

What are dark spots?

Darks spots are simply areas of hyperpigmentation on the face. They can be caused by hormones, over-exposure to the sun and common skin conditions such as acne. Women tend to notice them as they age, although scarring from teenage skin issues can also cause uneven skin tone.

Completely harmless, the only issue they cause is patchy areas of darker skin.

If you are tired of putting up with dark spots or fed up with the hassle of having to layer up concealer, keep reading because you can get rid of them.

Medical News Today has an excellent article on hyperpigmentation, explaining everything you need to know about melanin levels in the skin.

Correcting creams and fluids

Correcting creams and fluids are typically priced from around £16 upwards.

Active ingredients can include:

• Licorice Root Extract

• α-Arbutin

• Niacinamide

• Damask Rose

• Alcohol

• Rosemary Extract

• Poly Hydroxy Acid

Many correctors also include vitamins, natural emollients and exfoliators.

The drawback is... They can take up to three months to work. Many products in this category end up attracting poor reviews because people simply get fed up of waiting to see a difference.

Skin brightening products versus pigmentation correctors

Skin brightening serums can be incorporated into your usual skincare regimen and can cost as little as under £5 for a high-strength Vitamin C product.

Not only that, they often include other beneficial ingredients such as Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E.

Using a strength in excess of 12 per cent will likely yield visible results in as little as a week or two - if used morning and night. This ingredient will also give your skin a healthy glow.

In addition, you can boost the performance of a Vitamin C serum by using a clarifying toner that includes Niacinamide. Moisturising creams that include Vitamin C are also now widely available - so, if you suffer from hyperpigmentation, you can tackle the concern at every stage of your skincare routine.

Generally speaking, you can buy a serum and a moisturising cream for the same or less outlay as a market-leading dark spot corrector.

Keep up the good work

Unfortunately, once you stop using a product, dark spots can come back. So, if you want to keep your skin super clear all-year round, it's best to incorporate a Vitamin C product into your evening skincare regimen.

If you want to find effective brightening products at the best price, I offer a completely free product finder service. Simply use the Contact form and let me know what your requirements are and your budget.

Contact Belinda