Dermatologist’s new brightening serum targets darkish spots and pigmentation on the supply
Dr Sam Bunting’s new pigmentation treatment serum tackles all nine biological pathways involved in dark spot formation, and targets ‘zombie cells’ that can continue to trigger recurring pigmentation
Before and after Chrissy used Dr Sam’s Flawless Brightly Pro Serum for eight weeks(Image: Dr Sam’s)
Dermatologist-founded brand Dr Sam’s is arguably best known for its Flawless Cleanser and Flawless Neutralising Gel, which have cultivated a devoted fanbase amongst skincare enthusiasts seeking to maintain clear, healthy-looking skin. The brand has now unveiled a revolutionary new product designed to assist anyone battling dark spots, targeting post-acne marks or areas of pigmentation.
Dr Sam Bunting’s newest creation, the Flawless Brightly Pro Serum, is being celebrated as one of the brand’s most sophisticated formulations to date. Engineered to address pigmentation from its source rather than merely lightening what’s apparent on the skin’s surface, the innovative £64 serum is clinically demonstrated to diminish brown spots by up to 62% in eight weeks, and 85% in 12 weeks, the brand claims.
Pigmentation ranks amongst the most prevalent skin issues, impacting approximately half of all adults. While sun exposure can trigger it, additional elements such as visible light, pollution, hormonal fluctuations, inflammation, acne and even heat all contribute to encouraging excessive melanin production, reports the Mirror.
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Many brightening treatments concentrate on just one aspect of the process, which can result in early progress before outcomes stagnate, or dark patches reappearing. Having seen this pattern repeatedly at her Harley Street practice, Dr Sam Bunting was determined to develop a formula that operated differently.
She dedicated two years to creating Flawless Brightly Pro, trialling 23 different versions before achieving the final formulation. Rather than focusing on just one or two triggers of pigmentation, this serum is engineered to tackle all nine biological processes involved in pigment development. It also addresses what Dr Sam terms “zombie cells” – otherwise known as senescent cells – which can keep causing recurring pigmentation even after dark patches seem to have disappeared.
Flawless Brightly Pro Serum
Dr Sam’s Flawless Brightly Pro Serum is a daily-use formula that visibly reduces dark spots by up to 85% and is suitable even for sensitive skin. It works to fade the appearance of three types of existing pigmentation (UV damage, post-acne pigmentation, hormonal pigmentation).
Dr Sam Bunting said: “I knew I had to create a solution for the millions of people who suffer with pigmentation. A product that could be used to tackle all nine biological pathways and, at the same time, help avoid the rebound phenomenon. Flawless Brightly Pro does just that. It’s a breakthrough, single serum that supports skin through each of the key stages of pigmentation development.
“Rather than layering multiple treatments for each stage of pigmentation, people now have a simpler and more efficient approach to treating pigmentation with a single formula, which also has the added benefit of saving them both time and money.”
One of the primary ingredients is 10% azelaic acid, which is a renowned component cherished by dermatologists for helping to soothe inflammation, diminish redness and enhance post-acne pigmentation without the irritation commonly linked with more potent actives. Combined with this, ingredients such as niacinamide, arbutin, kojic dipalmitate and hexylresorcinol help control melanin production and enhance uneven tone. The formula also contains milk thistle extract, which the brand claims assists with collagen production and tackles pigmentation caused by sun damage and melasma. Additionally, bakuchiol promotes skin regeneration and delivers retinol-style anti-ageing properties without the associated irritation issues.
The product has been formulated to suit all skin tones, including darker complexions where overly harsh brightening treatments can occasionally exacerbate pigmentation problems rather than resolve them. It’s equally fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, pregnancy-safe, vegan and cruelty-free, making it appropriate for sensitive, acne-prone and reactive skin types as well.
Elsewhere, the Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum from Murad costs £83 for a 30ml bottle, and is said to rapidly reduce the look of hyperpigmentation without a doctor’s visit. This intensive serum promotes surface cell turnover for brighter, more even skin.
At Boots, the Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum 30ml costs £52 and is reportedly 62 times more effective than vitamin C. As such, it sells one bottle every 30 seconds.
In contrast to harsher treatment serums, Dr Sam’s product is intended for morning application and reportedly layers smoothly beneath moisturiser, SPF and cosmetics. It is fairly concentrated, so users should begin with alternate-day application to develop tolerance. It can subsequently be applied up to twice daily, but must be used independently without other active ingredients, which might not appeal to some skincare enthusiasts who already follow a beloved actives-focused regime. Early users of the serum have been ‘astounded’ by the outcomes. One remarked: “The main difference I’ve noticed is a noticeable reduction of pigmentation on my forehead. It actually amazed me. Prior to starting the top secret serum I needed concealer on top of my foundation to cover that area but this week I haven’t.”
Another commented: “It’s really refreshing to use a product where I can see results without it affecting my sensitive skin. The texture is lovely and it absorbs into the skin really quickly – so handy when you’re in a rush in the morning.
“Lovely, absorbs quickly and easily and you don’t need to wait around much before applying moisturiser or in cream,” a third noted. “It doesn’t irritate or dry the skin and I feel like my skin is smoother and brighter with using it.”
A further user observed: “I’ve had great results on my neck and chest, with a real reduction in dark spots and a better complexion.”
So far, the serum has received no adverse feedback, though some might consider the £64 price point rather hefty. However, rather than managing separate acids, serums and treatments, it could provide a more simplified approach to using multiple brightening products simultaneously. For additional defence against pigmentation, Dr Sam suggests applying a moisturiser and sunscreen over the top, or even a tinted sunscreen for enhanced blue light protection. Without consistent sun protection, results may be delayed or dark spots could reappear, so the serum performs optimally as part of a comprehensive routine rather than as a standalone wonder product.
If pigmentation has been your most persistent skin issue, the Flawless Brightly Pro Serum could be amongst the most compelling launches of spring.
