The 6 ingredients that help
| Ingredient | Strength | Irritation | When | Pregnancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha Arbutin | 1% – 2% | AM/PM | Safe | |
| Glutathione | 1% – 2% | AM/PM | Ask | |
| PHA | 3% – 10% | AM/PM | Safe | |
| Lactic Acid | 5% – 10% | PM | Safe | |
| Glycolic Acid | 5% – 10% | PM | Safe | |
| Vitamin C | 10% – 20% | AM | Safe |
Start here: gentle and effective
Alpha Arbutin
A skin-friendly relative of hydroquinone that slows melanin production. It fades dark spots and tanning gradually with very little irritation.
Glutathione
A popular "glow" antioxidant in India. Topically it has some evidence for mild brightening, but it is a large, unstable molecule. Expect modest results compared with vitamin C, arbutin or niacinamide.
PHA
Polyhydroxy acids are the gentlest chemical exfoliants. They work only on the surface, hydrate at the same time, and are usually tolerated by sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
Lactic Acid
A gentler AHA with a larger molecule. It exfoliates while also acting as a humectant, so it suits dry and sensitive skin that cannot tolerate glycolic acid.
Stronger options (introduce slowly)
Glycolic Acid
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid, so it penetrates deepest. It dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells for smoother, brighter skin and fades marks, but it is the AHA most likely to sting. Use 2–3 nights a week after cleansing. Skip it on nights you use retinoids. Sunscreen is non-negotiable because AHAs raise sun sensitivity.
Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant that brightens dull skin, fades dark spots and boosts your sunscreen's protection against free radicals. Pure L-ascorbic acid works best at a low pH and oxidises (turns orange) quickly. Apply in the morning on clean skin before moisturiser and sunscreen. Store it away from light and heat, and throw it out once it turns dark orange.
Combinations that work
Don't layer these together
Frequently asked questions
What is the best skincare ingredient for dullness?
Start with Alpha Arbutin, Glutathione and PHA, which are effective and gentle. Stronger options such as Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C work faster but irritate more. Introduce them one at a time.
Can I combine ingredients for dullness?
Yes. Proven pairs include Alpha Arbutin + Vitamin C and Glutathione + Vitamin C. Avoid layering PHA with Lactic Acid and PHA with Glycolic Acid in the same routine.
Which dullness ingredients are pregnancy-safe?
Alpha Arbutin, PHA, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C are generally considered safe, but always check with your doctor.