Pigmentation treatments are everywhere, but most feel either too harsh, too expensive, or too good to be true. I created this blog to cut through the noise and find clean, affordable skincare for pigmentation that actually works— starting with a promising clean serum for pigmentation, dark spots and melasma.
In my first post, I shared a little about my skincare struggles, my mission to find clean and affordable skincare for pigmentation, and why I started this blog. Today, I’m revealing the product I’ve chosen to kick off this 30-day trial—and why it stood out from many other pigmentation treatments and products I researched.
The Problem: So Many Products, So Few Results
If you’ve searched for a skincare product for hyperpigmentation like me, you’ll know the options are endless. From luxury serums to harsh spot treatments, it can be overwhelming—and often expensive.
What I wanted was something:
- Effective for pigmentation, melasma and sun spots
- Non-toxic and clean (no harsh chemicals or mystery ingredients)
- Affordable enough to be realistic for everyday use
After hours of research, ingredient breakdowns, and reading reviews, I landed on a product that ticked all those boxes.
The Clean Pigmentation Serum I’m Starting With
The product I’ll be using over the next 30 days is Anua Niacinamide 10% and TXA 4% Serum 30ml a serum combining Niacinamide, Tranexamic acid and Arbutin which are powerful active ingredients for combatting pigmentation, dark spots and also acne scars.
The Science behind the Ingredients
Niacinamide (10%) – this is a form of vitamin B3 that’s been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation, calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. It works by inhibiting the transfer of melanin to skin cells, which helps reduce dark spots and evens out skin tone.
Tranexamic Acid TXA (4%) – research shows this can reverse UV – induced hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme that plays a role in melanin production.
Alpha Arbutin (2%) – discovered as a new ingredient while trying to find safer alternatives to hydroquinone, this is believed to work in the same way as TXA by inhibiting tyrosinase. As an antioxidant, it also protects the skin from oxidative stress and boosts the skin’s natural defenses. Research has shown it works synergistically with other proven ingredients like Niacinimide, TXA and Vitamin C.
Vitamin C – known to be a powerful antioxidant, it can help with skin brightening, wrinkle reduction and reducing inflammation.
Ceramides – naturally occurring lipids in the skin, these are vital to maintain a healthy skin barrier. They keep the skin hydrated and plump.
Hyaluronic Acid – a naturally occurring sugar molecule it holds up to 1000 times its weight in water helping maintain skin hydration and improving skin elasticity.
This serum also has a load of other beneficial ingredients – centella asiatica extract, macadamia seed oil, glycerin and more, which also provide antioxidant, soothing and hydrating benefits.
Why this Serum for Pigmentation Stood Out
Here’s what helped this product stand out to me in a sea of options:
- Backed by Ingredients that work
I was looking for evidence-based ingredients like Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, and Alpha Arbutin—all known to help brighten dark spots and even skin tone over time. - Clean, Non-Toxic Formula
I’m pretty strict when it comes to “clean” so I avoid things like parabens, phlatates, SLS, parfum, mineral oil, some citrus essential oils and quite a few others which I’ll cover in a separate post. - Affordability & Access
Too many “clean” pigmentation products are unaffordable for me. This one at £22 makes repeat purchase affordable if it works. - Reviews from Real People
I read several reviews from people with hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-acne marks, and their feedback was positive and encouraging.
Other products I considered
- Topicals Faded Serum – Contains Tetrahydroxypropyl Ethylenediamine (can cause irritation), synthetic fragrance (Ethylene Brassylate), and Ceteareth-20, which can be problematic when combined with Cetearyl Alcohol.
- Paula’s Choice – some good formulas but didn’t include enough pigmentation specific active ingredients. Also priced above what I consider affordable for ongoing use.
- Nine Less Mela Pro 5% TXA – Decent formula, but includes Isopropyl Isostearate, which may trigger irritation, inflammation and dryness. Lacked the supporting high-quality ingredients that made Anua stand out.
The Plan: 30 Days, Full Transparency
Over the next 4 weeks, I’ll be using this Anua serum daily and tracking:
- Skin texture and tone
- Any lightening of pigmentation or dark spots
- Irritation or spots (if any)
- How it fits into my simple, non-toxic routine
My skin on Day 1
- Dark patches on forehead and upper lip
- Sun spots on cheeks and nose
- Combination skin, slightly dry in winter
[Include photos]
Want updates on this 30-day trial and future product reviews? Join my email list (coming soon) or follow along on Instagram [@_safiandco].
Let’s Talk About Your Pigmentation Journey
Have you tried this product—or are you struggling to find an affordable, clean solution for dark spots? I’d love to hear your experience. Comment below or DM me on Instagram if you’ve found something that’s worked for you.
Next week, I’ll be sharing my Week 1 update, my thoughts so far, and any early skin changes.