August 22, 2016
MDSUN how do I love thee? Let me count the ways;
- Powerful and effective ingredients
- High quality
- Beautiful packaging
- Proven results
I have been raving about MDSUN on FutureDerm for some time now. Every product I use has given me exceptional results and has been such a joy to use. So needless to say I was very eager to get my hands on and try the Brightener Serum.
The one thing every person has in common, when it comes to skin concerns, is the desire for brighter skin. But so many of us are plagued with age spots, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and general discoloration. Enter the Brightener Serum Infused with licorice root extract, azeloyl glycine, and niacinamide, this serum is designed to naturally reduce discolorations, unclog pores, and deliver healthy-looking radiance. This serum’s hydrating properties, such as mulberry root extract and hyaluronic acid, boost skin’s moisture level to protect the skin from dehydration and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
But how does it compare to MDSUN’s other incredible skincare ingredients?
Lactobionic acid
Lactobionic acid is a popular polyhydroxy acids (PHA). PHAs are carboxylic acids with multiple hydroxyl groups, with at least one attached to the “Alpha” position of the carboxyl group. PHAs like lactobionic acid (LA) can provide hydration due to the additional hydroxyl groups, which can attract more water as humectants.
Recent studies have shown that LA can be used as a safer and more gentle alternative to glycolic acid. That same study also found that it was a powerful brightening ingredient, as it significantly reduced the melanin index in a group of volunteers who used it for two weeks.
Ferulic Acid
Part of what makes MDSUN such an exceptional skincare brand is the ingredients they use in their products, and the Brightener Serum is no exception. This product contains Ferulic acid (FA) which has been shown in vivo to inhibit both UVA- and UVB-induced expression of various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which degrade structures such as collagen. FA does this via the proteasome pathway, which in-turn, will degrade the various MMPs before they do significant damage. To further protect the skin, FA has been shown to upregulate the expression of various antioxidant compounds such as glutathione, and its peroxidase and catalase relatives (Photochemistry and Photobiology, Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry).
Personal Use and Opinion
The first thing I want to draw attention to is the packaging. Not only is it stunning (which I know is not the most important thing when it comes to skin care but it certainly helps) but I am a huge fan of the pump applicator. I find that products in jars and droppers can get contaminated with harmful bacteria. A pump keeps everything safe and secure inside the bottle.
The texture of the serum is very similar to water, so be careful when using the pump because it might shoot out. Also keep in mind that a little goes a long way, so 1 pump is more than enough to cover your entire face. It applies very smoothly with no unnecessary pulling of the skin, however it does take a couple minutes to soak in so take a little break in between steps of your skin care routine. However, once it applies it leaves the skin feeling soft and supple instead of tacky and sticky.
I recommend using this product only at night as it contains PHAs that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and the possibility of sunburn. In the AM, be sure you’re loading up on SPF.
Bottom Line
Much like MDSUN’s other products, the Brightener Serum is incredibly effective. If you are struggling with hyperpigmentation or age spots this serum is definitely worth checking out!