• Alpha Arbutin (more molecules)
• Niacinamide (more molecules)**
• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C)**. This is being reformulated. You could look at Ascorbyl Glucoside or Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate.
• Azelaic Acid (Direct Acids)
• * you could add Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution before Azelaic Acid for added support.

Please be aware that Deciem states that their products are not for Melasma and you should consult with a specialist. If it is possible, I highly recommend speaking to a dermatologist who can prescribe you a mix of fabulous ingredients to really help the pigmentation. It´s crucial to invest in a good suncream, a fabulous hat and avoid direct sun whenever you can.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin – Pigmentation Routine

Alpha Arbutin is a water-based serum that helps fades dark spots and pigmentation. It can be used in the morning and evening by applying just a couple of drops to cleansed skin. Once you feel the Alpha Arbutin has been absorbed, you can apply the next product.

• Fades pigmentation
• Dark Spots
• When: morning and/or evening
• Where: after cleansing as this is a water-based product but before oils/cream
• No conflicts, although this should not be mixed directly with Niacinamide powder due to the pH.

A common problem with Niacinamide is that people find it can become soapy when applying. Try using less product and patting the product on rather than rubbing it. Make sure your skin is cleansed really well with no residue left from your cleanser. Niacinamide is now available in powder form. It´s important to patch test products before using them.

• Regulates sebum
• Minimises Pores
• When: Use morning and evening.
• Where: This is water-based, so apply after cleansing and before anhydrous oils or creams.
• Conflicts: Deciem has been back and forth, saying do not use Niacinamide with pure vitamin c to say all vitamin c products, including the derivatives and now says if you use without irritation, you can continue to do so.
• Niacinamide is available in 30ml and 60ml.

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a great vitamin c to use, especially if you’re new to skincare.

• Brightens skin
• Evens tone
• Signs of ageing
• When: Can be used in the morning and in the evening.
• Where: This would be used after water-based solutions.
• Conflicts: Niacinamide Powder. Deciem keep changing the rules regarding the serum saying if you do not have any irritation when using both products, you may continue to do so.

• Brightens
• Evens skin tone
• Texture Irregularities
• When: Ideally, this should be used in the evening.
• Where: This would come towards the end of your routine after water-based products. Some people apply this before moisturiser, and some apply after.