If a smooth, radiant and even complexion is your goal, then dark spots are probably something you could do without. But many of us are affected by these brown patches on our skin, whether as a result of hormonal changes, sun exposure, acne, or even just the ageing process. Here, we discuss precisely why they happen, who they happen to, what you can do about them, and the best products to help tackle them — like the Caudalie Vinoperfect range.
What exactly are dark spots?
When we refer to dark spots, what we’re really talking about is hyperpigmentation. This occurs when melanin — the pigment that determines the colour of your skin — is overproduced, resulting in a patch of skin that’s darker than the skin that surrounds it.
Why do they happen?
Pigmentation spots can affect men and women, whatever their age, skin tone or skin type. One key cause is repeated sun exposure — when extra melanin is produced to help protect the skin from UV light. For that reason, many areas of discolouration appear on the hands, chest and face, which often receive the most prolonged and regular sun exposure.
Dark spots can also be caused by hormonal changes, leading to a condition called melasma (which is hormone-related hyperpigmentation). Many people first encounter these during the hormonal rollercoaster of pregnancy, though menopause and contraceptive pill changes can contribute to their formation, too. Any inflammation of the skin — whether it's a result of acne, insect bites, or other trauma — can trigger an overproduction of melanin, leading to lasting skin discolouration.
What can be done to minimise their appearance?
Perhaps the most famous ingredient known to help tackle this is vitamin C, an antioxidant which helps brighten and even out skin tone — however, some people experience irritation when using it. That’s why Caudalie has made Viniferine, a non-irritating vitamin C alternative, the star of its Vinoperfect range, which draws upon 20 years of dark spot expertise to brighten skin and act on all kinds of hyperpigmentation. An impressive 62 times more effective than vitamin C*, this patented ingredient regulates melanin production, helping to correct the appearance of existing dark spots while preventing the formation of new ones.
All the products in the range work wonders when it comes to tackling skin discolouration, but Caudalie’s Vinoperfect Brightening Serum is exceptional. Combining Viniferine with hydrating olive squalane, it promises to visibly reduce dark spots by 63% after just one bottle**. No wonder one sells every 15 seconds***. Laser therapy such as IPL can also be effective, by breaking down excess melanin in the skin over time.
How can you prevent new dark spots from forming?
Due to the sun’s role in their formation, it won’t come as a surprise that SPF is an essential prevention step. Applying a broad-spectrum SPF every day helps to shield the skin from UV rays, which not only protects against new dark spots, but also helps to prevent existing ones from becoming darker. If your hyperpigmentation is caused by acne or other inflammation-causing skin issues, seek to treat the underlying condition, with a dermatologist's help. Laser therapy can also be useful for this.
Caudalie’s Vinoperfect Brightening Serum, along with the rest of the Vinoperfect range, is designed to prevent new dark spots from appearing by controlling tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for excessive melanin production. Think of it as prevention as well as a cure, along with a visible brightening action. With a multi-pronged approach to targeting existing skin concerns, as well as protecting against future hyperpigmentation, a radiant, even complexion is well within reach.
Discover Caudalie’s Vinoperfect collection at uk.caudalie.com
Vinoperfect Dark Spot Brightening Serum
Vinoperfect Brightening AHA Micropeel
Vinoperfect Instant Brightening Moisturiser
Vinoperfect Glycolic Night Cream
Vinoperfect Dark Circle Eye Cream
Vinoperfect Glycolic Peel Mask
*In vitro test on the inhibiting action of Viniferine on tyrosinase.
**Clinical study, dermatological scoring on dark spot colouration, on 65 volunteers after 56 days.
***Sell in data from January 2024 to December 2024.
