When our skin is exposed to the sun, it triggers a 'red alert' to protect itself. Here's how it works:
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In the first stage, the skin decides to produce melanin.
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In the second stage, it activates the melanin production factory.
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In the third stage, the factory starts producing melanin.
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In the fourth stage, melanin is delivered to the cells.
To achieve a whitening effect, key ingredients must block the production and spread of melanin. Here are the KFDA-approved whitening functional ingredients for each stage:
Stage 2: Activating the Melanin Factory
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Mulberry Extract
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Arbutin
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Oil-Soluble Licorice Extract
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Alpha-Bisabolol
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Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Stage 3: Producing Melanin
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Ascorbyl Glucoside
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Ethyl Ascorbyl Ether
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Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Stage 4: Delivering Melanin
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Niacinamide
Here are some products to help with each stage:
Stage 2:
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ISOI Blemish Care Up Serum with Alpha-Bisabolol
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Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum (₩88,000): Contains squalane, which helps with pore care and whitening.
Stage 3:
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Laneige Radian-C Cream (₩32,000) [Ethyl Ascorbyl Ether]: A moisturizing formula suitable for all skin types, providing both hydration and whitening.
Stage 3 & 4:
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Langbel Vita Energy Spot Ampoule (₩25,500) [Ethyl Ascorbyl Ether + Niacinamide]: Contains hyaluronic acid, making it a bit sticky, so it's great for nighttime use.
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Biohealbo Vitamin Hyaluronic Ampoule Toner (₩30,000): Includes Niacinamide, Ascorbyl Glucoside, and Hyaluronic Acid for comprehensive care.
Stage 5 :
the well-known ingredient is retinol. Our skin sheds dead cells every 28 days. Retinol speeds up cell regeneration, helping melanin-storing cells shed faster. Since our skin is thin and sensitive, using products with less than 0.1% retinol reduces irritation while aiding cell production. Recommended products include The Ordinary Retinol and IOPE Retinol