I was intrigued by a new freckle fighting cream called Elure. There are good clinical studies that it can lighten dark patches in 7-28 days. Elure gets its power from a type of naturally occuring enzyme derived from tree mushrooms. Called legnin peroxidase, it acts by breaking down melanin in the skin cells. Unlike hydroquinone, this enzyme is non irritating and shows no skin sensitivity.
We all know that excess pigmentation is linked to sun exposure. What is less well known is that as we get older there is an increase in dark spots and splotches due to a slowdown in the rate of cell growth. In our twenties cells turn over every 28 days. By the 50′s, the cycle is extended to 45 days. This means that darkened skin cells get even darker and stay around longer.
I’ve pretty much eliminated the dark spots on my face and neck with lasers, IPL and a maintenance program of retinoids. But dark spots come back and I’m always looking for new anti-freckle remedies. To test them out I’ve identified some pretty big freckles on my arms. Now to be perfectly clear. I’m not really concerned about how they look ( I’m not that vain). But I’m glad that I still have freckles to be part of my science project.
Elure is an unusual product in that its a two step process. In step one, you apply a dab of active Melanozyme from one side of the compartment in the Elure jar. Wait for a minute than top it with the same amount of Bio-Activator from compartment 2. I’m going to do this both in the evening and in the morning. In the daytime, I’ll top it with a zinc oxide sunscreen.
My before photo shows a 1/4 inch freckle on my forearm. I’m going to continue with the Elure treatments for up to 28 day, taking a new photograph every week. This is going to be interesting.
