The science

Formulated With Ingredients Backed By Research

Five actives, chosen for their published cosmetic research and for how they behave on deeper skin tones.

Niacinamide

INCI: Niacinamide

What it is: A form of vitamin B3, one of the most widely studied ingredients in cosmetic skincare.
How it works: Research suggests niacinamide can interrupt the transfer of pigment to the upper layers of skin, while supporting the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Benefits: Helps brighten the appearance of dark spots, supports a more even-looking tone, and helps skin feel comfortable and hydrated.
Suited to melanin-rich skin: Melanin-rich skin can respond to irritation with visible marks. Niacinamide is well tolerated at cosmetic levels, making it a gentle option for tone-focused routines.

Tranexamic Acid

INCI: Tranexamic Acid

What it is: A synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine, used topically in brightening formulas.
How it works: It is studied for its ability to help limit the signalling cascade that leads to excess visible pigment after inflammation or sun exposure.
Benefits: Helps soften the look of stubborn discolouration, post-blemish marks, and patchy areas.
Suited to melanin-rich skin: Because it targets the appearance of pigment triggered by inflammation, it suits skin prone to post-inflammatory marks.

Alpha Arbutin

INCI: Alpha-Arbutin

What it is: A refined, plant-derived molecule related to hydroquinone in structure — but used as a cosmetic brightener.
How it works: It works gradually on the enzyme activity involved in visible pigment production, helping new discolouration appear less pronounced.
Benefits: Helps visibly brighten dark spots and improve the look of overall clarity.
Suited to melanin-rich skin: Gentle and gradual by design, so it supports brightening goals without the harshness that can leave deeper skin tones looking uneven.

Panthenol

INCI: Panthenol

What it is: Provitamin B5, a humectant and skin-conditioning agent.
How it works: It draws water into the upper layers of skin and helps reinforce the feel of a healthy, resilient barrier.
Benefits: Hydrates, soothes the feel of stressed skin, and improves softness and suppleness.
Suited to melanin-rich skin: Barrier comfort matters when using active brighteners — panthenol helps keep the routine feel balanced rather than stripped.

Peptides

INCI: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

What it is: Short chains of amino acids used as skin-conditioning agents in modern cosmetic formulation.
How it works: They support the look of firmness and smoothness, complementing the tone-focused actives in the formula.
Benefits: Helps skin look smoother, plumper, and more radiant over time.
Suited to melanin-rich skin: A tone-focused routine should still care for texture and glow — peptides round out the formula for an overall healthy-looking finish.

Glass beakers and a pipette on a warm beige surface in a skincare formulation studio

Full ingredient list (INCI)

Melanin Glow Serum

Aqua/Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Propanediol, Tranexamic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

Formulated without added fragrance, essential oils, parabens, sulfates, and hydroquinone. If you have a known allergy to any listed ingredient, do not use this product.

Patch test before first use: apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using active skincare. ORAE products are cosmetics intended to improve the appearance of skin. Individual results may vary.

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