SkinCeuticals' Discoloration Defense is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration on the face. Powered by kojic acid, tranexamic acid and vitamin B3, this advanced formula is a hydroquinone-free skin brightening serum.Key Ingredients:3% Tranexamic Acid: minimizes the recurrence of discoloration and stubborn brown patches with continued use1% Kojic Acid: naturally produced by certain fungi, kojic acid helps improve skin brightness5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): a water-soluble vitamin that has been shown to help reduce the appearance of skin discoloration5% HEPES: a synthetically-derived acid that activates natural enzymes in skin to help break the bonds that bind dead skin cells to the surface for even exfoliationKey Benefits:Features a synergistic blend of anti-discoloration ingredients to reduce the appearance of skin discoloration, improve brightness, and minimize the reoccurrence of discoloration (with continued use)60% average improvement in the appearance of stubborn brown patchesParaben-free, fragrance-free, silicone-free, gluten-free, and hydroquinone-freeIdeal at-home complement to professional skin discoloration treatments, such as chemical peels or non-ablative laser; always consult with a physician for individual regimen recommendationsClinical Studies:In a 12-week clinical study*, Discoloration Defense significantly improved the appearance of key skin discoloration markers on Fitzpatrick I-IV skin tones:60% average improvement in the appearance of stubborn brown patches59% average improvement in the appearance of skin discoloration81% average improvement in the appearance of post-acne marks59% average improvement in the appearance of even skin toneIn a 12-week study** on deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick V-VI), twice-daily application of Discoloration Defense demonstrated a statistically-significant improvement in the appearance of discoloration, post-inflammatory discoloration, and even skin tone:33% reduction in hyperpigmentation at 12 weeks 34% reduction in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at 12 weeksLearn more on the blog: How to incorporate this serum into your SkinCeuticals regimen.*A 12-week, single-center, clinical study was conducted on 50 females, ages 25 to 60, Fitzpatrick I-IV, with mild-to-moderate facial skin discoloration, including stubborn dark spots, post-acne marks and uneven skin tone. Discoloration Defense was applied to the face twice a day in conjunction with a sunscreen. Efficacy and tolerability evaluations were conducted at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, 8, and 12.**A 12-week, single-center, clinical study was conducted on 51 female subjects, Fitzpatrick V-VI, with visible signs of skin discoloration/hyperpigmentation, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. Discoloration Defense was applied to the face twice a day in conjunction with a sunscreen. Efficacy and tolerability evaluations were conducted at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, 8, and 12.