Brightening serum is one of the most searched terms in the skin-care space online, and we’re not surprised. Dark spots and uneven skin tone are common (and frustrating) concerns, and can be caused by both sun damage and the natural aging process. The DermaQuest Advanced SkinBrite Serum works to reverse discoloration issues through an all-star lineup of key ingredients, and without controversial hydroquinone. Here, my honest thoughts on this brilliant brightener.
The Benefits of This Brightening Serum
Founded by master chemist Sam Dhatt in 1999, DermaQuest has a long-standing history as a professional skin-care brand rooted in science. (Dr. Dhatt helped discover the first Retin-A molecule.) With each of its products, you can trust that you’re getting an efficacious formula that benefits both the appearance and health of your skin. This formula won our 2024 NewBeauty Award for “Best Brightening Serum” for several key reasons. I also love the way it feels on my skin—it’s super silky—and it absorbs fast.
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Four key ingredients work to stop melanogenesis before it begins. This means they seek out and lift unwanted discoloration and pigmentation from the skin. They also prevent the future formation of more melanin, meaning fewer dark spots. These ingredients include Synovea HR and Chromabright, which the brand says work four times more effectively and safely than hydroquinone to stop pigment formation at the source. The other two actives in this group include kojic acid and shiitake mushroom extract. The goal of this pair is to attack tyrosinase production at the enzymatic level. They also make the other brightening ingredients work harder. Tranexamic acid, which experts call one of the best brightening ingredients on the market right now, is also in the mix. It, too, is an effective tyrosinase inhibitor that promotes a more radiant, even skin tone.
The formula doesn’t irritate my skin at all, and there are no added fragrances or dyes. The yellow color comes from the addition of bakuchiol, as yellow is its natural color. Bakuchiol is a gentler alternative to retinol that promotes increased cell turnover and stimulates collagen production. It can also be used during pregnancy, whereas retinol cannot. The bottom line: This is a very well-rounded serum with not only brightening benefits, but also age-defying ones.
Key Ingredients
Bakuchiol, tranexamic acid, Hydroxysomes, cultibiota, Synovea HR, Chromabright, shiitake mushroom extract, kojic acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate and glycerin
How to Use It
Apply one to two pumps of serum on your face, neck and décolleté in the morning and at night. Give it a few seconds to absorb and then apply your moisturizer and SPF (a.m.) or night cream (p.m.) on top.
