DIY Skin Brightening Serum
If you want to formulate a brightening serum for uneven tone and dark marks, Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide and Licorice Root Extract are three useful ingredients to understand. I’ll explain why I chose them, what each contributes and where to get the complete tested formula.
Want the exact formula and method? Get DIY Serums for Pigmentation & Brightening — 5 complete formulas →
Already know how to formulate? Shop the brightening ingredients →
The Three Brightening Ingredients and What Each One Does
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps reduce melanosome transfer and supports the skin barrier, which makes it a useful all-rounder in a brightening formula.
Alpha Arbutin helps reduce excess pigment formation by inhibiting tyrosinase activity, the enzyme step involved in producing melanin.
Licorice Root Extract is a useful botanical brightening ingredient that can support a more even-looking skin tone.
Want to make this serum yourself? I have moved the complete tested formula, exact percentages and full step-by-step method into DIY Serums for Pigmentation & Brightening, together with four additional brightening formulas. Get the 5-formula guide →
A quick formulation note: the finished pH must be chosen for the complete formula, including the actives and the preservative system, rather than for one ingredient in isolation.
Prefer finished skincare rather than formulating? See our Pigmentation, Melasma & Chubaba solutions →
Before You Begin
Prepare your work area and suitable formulation equipment as part of your formulation hygiene routine. Our 70% Isopropyl Alcohol Hygiene & Prep Solution is a convenient option for appropriate equipment and work-surface preparation. Allow treated surfaces and equipment to dry completely before weighing or mixing.
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