Having tried everything from hydroquinone, laser, microdermabrasion, IPL and Fraxl to combat the effects of a disastrous vacation in the Maldives 6 years ago that resulted in very stubborn pigmentation, I am a human radar for anything that promises to deal with this skin care concern.
I have been to the extremes and spent a small fortune, but at the end of the day, nothing has actually permanently removed the pigmentation. In reality I should pretty much avoid the sun altogether but given I live in Australia and have a thing for Island holidays I rely on SPF 30+, a hat and an icy cocktail under a beach umbrella to survive.
When Clinique contacted Rescu. about their ‘breakthrough’ serum, we were quite obviously interested. In experts we trust and Clinique provided several of the world’s leading skin gurus and doctors as well as impressive clinicals to back up their claims. Could this be the miracle non-invasive topical treatment of my dreams? Have I found skincare Nirvana?
My journey to ‘even better’ skin commenced 4 weeks ago. The sun was still blazing and summer was going strong well into April. I followed the instructions to the letter and applied the light and easily absorbed Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Serum to my face (avoiding the eye area) morning and night on a perfectly cleansed face.
I also followed up with Even Better Skin tone correcting moisturiser SPF 15 followed by Clinique City Block SPF 25 in the morning. You can never be too cautious about the rays! At night, I simply applied the serum to my face and also used an eye cream.
Three times a week, I have been exfoliating as the Even Better Serum breaks down the pigmentation and dead skin cells to the top of the skin so regular exfoliation works synergistically with the product to accelerate the even skin tone results.
The Results:
• After 1 week, my skin felt smoother and generally brighter. The serum is so lovely and light and the Even Better moisturiser is a pleasure to use.
• After 2 weeks, the darkest patches of pigment around my temples and on my forehead are definitely less dense. I can see the areas fading and also breaking down blending in with the rest of my skin tone. I like that there are no bleached patches and that my skin does not react at all to the products. I’ve also started to use the Even Better Foundation. Perfect for pigmented skin and works in beautifully with the regime.
• After 3 weeks, more breaking down of the darkest pigments and a very definite improvement in the overall evenness of skin tone. The product is not as dramatic nor as harsh as Hydroquinone but I like that it is also a great anti-ageing regime boosting my skin with anti-oxidants whilst at the same time treating the cursed pigmentation.
• After 4 weeks, I am a happy cat. No the pigmentation is not gone but it is significantly improved. The best part is that my skin colour seems far more uniform and I am not stressed to be seen without make up. My skin is also very smooth to the touch and has benefited from the extra exfoliation and care.
The Verdict:
This is a great product for those who are scared of harsh chemicals and invasive treatments. With the right dedication and time invested, I believe the results are worthy of the praise and buzz around this product.
The Even Better collection would be ideal for sensitive skin and also in the lead up to a big event. It’s not a risky treatment. Slowly and methodically, the results appear in the mirror and your confidence in cosmetic claims will be restored. I also want to point out that the Serum and Cream are great value. It’s the right price and they last. Other products on the market that claim similar results can be as expensive as having an in-salon procedure.
Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector $89
Even Better Skin tone correcting moisturiser SPF 15 $90
Even Better Make Up SPF 15 $49
City Block Sheer Daily Face Protector SPF 25 $36
www.clinique.com.au
For the clinicals and interview with Clinique Experts click here and here.