Lancome Blanc Expert Melanolyser III Intensive Specialist Spot Eraser
$160 for 30ml, from Lancome counters
The formula promises targeted action on dark spots: melanin (dark brown or black pigment found in skin) is prevented from being produced; existing ones are dissolved and shed; and skin is soothed to prevent inflammation that can result in dark spots.
Apply a thin layer all over the face, then dab a little more on the dark pigments for best results.
Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Whitening Spot Serum
$208 for 35ml, from Sulwhasoo counters
White ginseng saponin supposedly blocks melanin from being produced and travelling towards the skin's surface, causing imperfections. The ginseng extract also promotes skin moisturisation and immunity to prevent inflammation.
Chanel Le Blanc Whitening Concentrate Double Action TXC
$175 for 30ml, from Chanel counters
The brand's patented TXC molecule promises to limit the excessive production of melanin. A two-year pearl extract and the One Day Flower boost radiance through their hydration and antioxidant properties.
Estee Lauder CyberWhite HD Advanced Spot Correcting Moisture Lotion
$92 for 150ml, from Estee Lauder counters
This contains a flowering plant - the scutellera baicalensis - that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties to prevent irritation from pollution and UV rays.
The CyberWhite HD complex is said to inhibit the inflammatory response and hence reduce the formation of spots. It also exfoliates skin for a brighter appearance.
Guerlain Blanc De Perle Advanced White P.E.A.R.L Drop Whitening Essence
$175, from Guerlain counters
Using a new technology, the formula claims to strengthen the lowest layer of the epidermis so it does not become a breeding ground for persistent dark spots.
The serum also promises to prevent melanin transfer to the surface of the skin, and to lighten existing melanin.
Innisfree Eco Science White C Pore Double Serum
$59 for 30ml, from Innisfree at B2-34 Takashimaya Shopping Centre
This double serum claims to shrink pores while boosting the skin's radiance. Vitamin C from organic tangerine and green tea extracts combat free radicals and brighten skin. Mint extract purifies pores and controls sebum, while a Siberian plant peptide firms and smoothens skin.
Shiseido Future Solution LX Superior Radiance Serum
$365 for 30ml, from Shiseido counters
A pearl hybrid complex supposedly prevents spot formation and purifies cells to even out complexion, while the brand's signature 4MSK ingredient promises to get rid of excess melanin.
The exclusive Skingenecell 1P ingredient aids the division of healthy cells for a smoother skin surface that can better reflect light.
ZA True White EX Essence Lotion
$23.50 for 150ml, from selected personal care stores and supermarkets
Shiseido is ZA's parent company and, for the first time, Shiseido's patented whitening ingredient 4MSK is made available in ZA products.
4MSK inhibits melanin production. It also has anti-inflammatory properties to calm skin, while vitamin C lightens pigmentation and vitamin E firms skin. Trimethylglycine exfoliates skin, and glycerin and natural hot spring water keep it supple.
Laneige White Plus Renew Capsule Sleeping Pack
$42 for a box of 16 capsules, from Laneige counters
These masks are packed into individual 3ml capsules. Three quarters of the mask is made up of a hydrating ampoule to quench skin.
A quarter of the formula is composed of a whitening essence that addresses the yellow, red and dark undertones in Asian skin. The essence also claims to help skin disintegrate melanin clusters.
Clarins White Plus Total Luminescent Smoothing Brightening Night Cream
$110 for 50ml, from Clarins counters
The brand's Trans-luminescent Complex contains sandspurry extract to limit the production of melanin. Hyaluronic acid penetrates deeper into the skin so it is moisturised throughout. Indian kino tree extract exfoliates skin to brighten it.
Kiehl's Clearly Corrective White Hydrating & Clarifying Treatment Masque
$90 for six sheets, from Kiehl's counters
The brand's signature Activated C ingredient, a vitamin C-derivative, is now delivered to skin with an intensive treatment mask. Together with peony and white birch extract, it also promises to reduce the appearance of existing pigmentation.
Skin is also hydrated with sodium hyaluronate while glycerin adds radiance.
Cle de Peau Beaute Illuminating Concentrate
$190 for six sets, from Cle de Peau Beaute counters
This product comes with a unique three-step routine. First, pat a capsule of the lotion onto skin for gentle exfoliation. Then infuse skin with a capsule of the essence to rejuvenate it. Finally, wrap skin in a soothing gel mask to lock in the goodness of the skincare.
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