PracticalDermatology

In each issue, Practical Dermatology® asks top dermatologists about the latest products they are recommending to patients. 

Here, Valerie D. Callender, MD, Founder and Medical Director of the Callender Dermatology & Cosmetic Center in Glenn Dale, MD, discusses the latest collection from SkinMedica, Even & Correct, which is designed to help fade hyperpigmentation (without hydroquinone).

What is Even & Correct?

Valerie D. Callender, MD: SkinMedica’s Even & Correct Collection is a unique set of products designed to address the complexities of hyperpigmentation. The product line includes three topical products: Advanced Brightening Treatment, Dark Spot Cream, and Brightening Treatment Pads. The collection is a customizable and comprehensive approach that can be used to help target a broad spectrum of unwanted hyperpigmentation conditions, including melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and effectively targets six critical pathways associated with melanogenesis. The products are hydroquinone-free and are formulated with the proprietary LTN complex which contains ultra-concentrated lotus sprout extract, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide to address skin discoloration in just one week. The products are safe for daily and prolonged use and effective on all skin types and for multiple ethnicities.

How are you recommending patients use this?

Dr. Callender: This system is fully customizable to suit the skin’s needs, and the three topical products can be used together as a regimen, or individually on their own as targeted treatment solutions.

How does it compare with other brightening products on the market?

Dr. Callender: There are many types of lightening agents available to dermatologists to address disorders of hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone is no longer available over the counter, and most products that are developed to address hyperpigmentation on the market today contain various skin-lightening ingredients that provide minimal or no results. However, the proprietary LTN complex is a great alternative to treat hyperpigmentation. The ultra-concentrated lotus sprout extract enriched in phytochemicals through a specialized extraction process to harness the most powerful properties addresses skin discoloration. Tranexamic acid reduces the appearance of dark spots, and niacinamide reduces the appearance of skin discoloration and fine lines.

What types of results are patients seeing with regular use?

Dr. Callender: When patients use all three products together, they may see results in as early as one week. Their skin will be brighter and have a more even skin tone.

What procedures complement Even & Correct use?

Dr. Callender: The treatment and management of hyperpigmentation disorders can be challenging and, in most cases, requires a maintenance routine to prevent recurrence. For example, in melasma, a chronic condition requires skin-lightening agents, prescription hydroquinone, and non-hydroquinone products, along with daily photoprotection. Aesthetic procedures, such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion, are a great addition to an initial or maintenance regimen for hyperpigmentation. I commonly use these procedures to enhance results for my patients.

How important is skincare in your overall treatment philosophy?

Dr. Callender: Skincare is very important and is the basis for healthy skin. It is the canvas that serves as the basis to successfully introduce prescriptions and aesthetic procedures to patients. I commonly recommend a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and mineral-based sunscreen. In patients with darker skin, tinted formulations are more cosmetically acceptable.