OK, I admit I was an idiot and spent far too much time in the sun as a teenager and young adult. I’m now paying the price. I have some sun spots on my face and they bug the hell out of me. I have had laser a few times, but they come back. So I am basically willing to try anything topical.
Following the 2010, breakthrough development of Kiehl’s Photo-age Corrector, Kiehl’s Since 1851 chemists have now introduced a fast, exceptionally effective formulation developed to promote youthful clarity while addressing the appearance of dark spots, discolorations, acne scarring and uneven skin tone – Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions® Clearly CorrectiveTM Dark Spot Solution.
The formula’s key ingredient, power-packed Activated C, is the latest-generation Vitamin C derivative available and Kiehl’s Since 1851 is proud to be the first company to bring this ingredient to market in the U.S. Kiehl’s unique, entirely clear preparation is 100% active to quickly begin attacking deep-set dark spots; and, with its “anti-cluster” technology, it swiftly breaks apart discolorations and prevents the formation of new pigment clusters.
Formulated with White Birch and Peony Extracts, the results of this potent combination are clear: fast, correction year-round, for visibly more uniform skin tone and overall clarity. This product is photostabilized and silicone-free and not made with optical diffusers or pearls to mask discolorations/dark spots, hence the clear formula in a clear bottle.
“At Kiehl’s, we’ve determined that to promote clarity and a more youthful appearance, Activated C is next-generation. We’ve learned that we can’t simply slow down the production and migration of hyperpigmentation,” states Dr. Angelike Galdi, Kiehl’s Head Chemist & AVP of Research and Development. “We have to break up the overproduced melanin, prevent it from clustering into a dark spot and stop it from migrating to the surface. We refer to this as anti-cluster activity and Activated C is outstanding in this functionality. Many other spot corrector products do not perform this action. We believe that with this advancement, all hyperpigmentation products will now be evaluated for their performance in this area.”
Activated C actually breaks up existing melanin clusters, treating pigment currently present in the skin and inhibiting the formation of new melanin clusters.Activated C has a very small molecular size and is highly stable. This makes it a highly efficient ingredient, working upon application to deliver sustained activity.
“Because of the formula’s unique lightweight, yet hydrating texture, even my patients with sensitive skin can tolerate the product year-round,” states Dr. Adam Geyer, Kiehl’s product development consulting dermatologist. “Until now we haven’t seen such a perennial product available to address hyperpigmentation concerns and to treat uneven, dull skin. The two most commonly prescribed medications to address hyperpigmentation have guidelines limiting their year-round use. Hydroquinone should only be used in up to three-month intervals to avoid unwanted side effects and topical retinoids should be used cautiously in the summer due to potential photosensitivity. Clearly Corrective can be used twice daily, year-round without concern for either of these side effects. A product like Clearly Corrective that prevents, treats and maintains an even, clarified complexion year-round will set a new standard in hyperpigmentation.”
Clearly Corrective is a fast-acting serum that penetrates faster and deeper allowing you to see results even sooner. This serum evens skin tone, diminishes dark spots to impart overall radiance and luminosity to the skin:
- In as little as 2 weeks, 55% of women clinically demonstrated a significant reduction in dark spot intensity.
- In 4 weeks, 69% of women clinically demonstrated a continued reduction in dark spots intensity and 73% of women showed a significant reduction in acne scarring. Reduction in other skin discolorations was clinically evident among 69% of women.
- In 8 weeks, 87% of women clinically demonstrated more uniform skin tone to deliver breakthrough clarity.
So what was my experience? I have been using the product twice a day religiously for about 7 weeks now. I am not really noticing my spots disappearing (sadly), but I have not noticed any new ones (so they are not rising to the surface) and my skin-tone is more even. I’m still using it though! I certainly don’t want any more!
Kiehl’s ‘Clearly Corrective’ Dark Spot Solution 1 oz., $49.50
– Lauren Dimet Waters
FTC Disclosure: Sample provided for testing & review.