IN DEMAND: GLOW GETTER

Seeking a solution for dark spots, melasma, under-eye circles, acne scarring? Turns out that you can get some clarity from within. Sally Hunwick investigates

- Sally Hunwick

If you’re looking in the mirror and not loving what you see, chances are it has more to do with clarity than lines or wrinkles. “Uneven skin is the most common skin condition that we treat,” says Dr Michele Squire, a microbiologist.

Whether you’re suffering from dark spots, patches of discolouration or post-acne scarring, hyperpigmentation is when the skin’s melanin production process goes into overdrive. The issue is usually brought on by chronic (and often incidental) sun exposure, says Squire, but there are other causes too.

“There’s hormonal triggers like pregnancy,” says Squire. “Also injury or inflammation can lead to dark spots or leave pigmentation behind.”

And that unevenness can make us feel older than we actually are, says Squire. Why? Because on a subconscious level, we see skin clarity in others as a sign of health and vitality, so it makes sense that dark patches cropping up on our own face is going to make us feel less than fresh-faced.