Hyperpigmentation is known to be one of the hardest skin issues to treat. While some people see success with topical ingredients, like retinoids and hydroxy acids, others have to seek help from derm-grade treatments, like lasers and chemical peels. But even the “best” options out there have their limits, particularly on darker skin tones. With Zitsticka’s latest, the brand released its new Blur Potion supplement ($60), delivering an antioxidant-packed formula to even discoloration from the inside out.

Unlike topical hydroxy acids, which target hyperpigmentation at a surface level, this supplement is purported to work from the opposite direction of most of our products. “When your skin isn’t getting the internal nutrients it needs for healing, there is a limit to the fading and regeneration topical products can achieve,” says Terry Loong MD, a board-certified dermatologist who works with the brand. “The six clinically-tested antioxidants in Blur Potion are able to address root imbalances and optimize the body’s internal systems, to allow for efficient fading and regeneration on the outside.”

Sun damage is one of the main culprits behind hyperpigmentation (with acne scarring clocking in at a close second), and antioxidants, in general, are known to up your skin’s natural defenses against UV rays. But according to Dr. Loong, each of the antioxidants chosen for this supplement goes above and beyond the standard preventative measures by offering hyperpigmentation-treating benefits, too. According to the brand, Oligopin, for instance, has been shown to help reduce melanin disposition, recycle the vitamin C in your body to ignite collagen production, and regenerate vitamin E to accelerate skin repair; beta carotene accelerates cell turnover; grape seed extract works to lighten UV-induced pigmentation; vitamin E works against skin degradation and inhibits tyrosinase, which is the main culprit behind hyperpigmentation; and Luetin and Zeaxanthin block the formation of melanin pathways to even skin tone while purportedly improving hydration and elasticity.

Shop now: ZitSticka Blur Potion, $60

Shop now: ZitSticka Blur Potion, $60

The supplement’s efficacy has been tested across a broad range of skin tones, and according to Dr. Loong, “most users, irrespective of skin color, have observed pronounced results in hyperpigmentation fading at the three-month mark.” She notes that results may vary from person to person and that the longer you’ve had the hyperpigmentation, the more difficult it may be to get it to fully disappear.

For best results, Dr. Loong recommends integrating the supplement into your daily routine along with a topical hyperpigmentation treatment. “Zitsticka’s HYPERFADE patch is the perfect complement for fading from the outside, while a good quality, high potency retinoid will also expedite the process,” she says. “A vitamin C serum will also work beautifully in tandem with benzoyl peroxide.”

While taking a daily supplement to treat hyperpigmentation might sound too good to be true, in this case, science—and the brand’s before and after photos—indicate it could be worth a try.

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