Hyperpigmentation and dark spots have often forced me to layer on cream-to-powder foundation to avoid embarrassing glares. I've also tried fading creams, facial peels and good old cocoa butter to renew my dark skin.

While I've seen improvement over the years, very few skin care products have landed on my desk and produced eye-opening results like Dr. Lewinn by Kinerase Skin Tone Perfecting Serum XK.

This liquid gem is formulated with five key ingredients: Kinetin, the brand's super anti-oxidant plant complex which exfoliates and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles; Sepivinol, a red wine extract that helps to prevent future aging; hyaluronic acid, a known natural moisturizer; Sephiwhite MSH, an inhibitor that blocks pigmentation and SymWhite, a potent lightener that targets UV-induced skin coloring.

While the blend instantly reads impressive, it only took two weeks of applying tiny drops to my face each morning post-cleansing to notice unblemished skin. Discoloration on my forehead and cheeks have lightened and my complexion is supple and radiant, making me feel more confident to step out sans cover-up.

Dr. Lewinn by Kinerase Skin Tone Perfecting Serum XK, $33, drlewinnbykinerase.com

Uptown: Tommy Hilfiger Prep World NYC Pop-Up House
Look: The 25-year-old print and runway model, who's known for her piercing blue-gray eyes, embodies all-American beauty with a fresh face, natural brows, straight strands and bubblegum pink pout.

Downtown: Summer With Off Duty Party 2011
Look: Stam appears lit-from-within in illuminating eye makeup, dewy skin, rose lip gloss and naturally wavy hair accentuated with a braid at the crown.

Uptown: ESPY Awards 2011
Look: The 34-year-old actress, who will star as a public relations consultant to the President who leaves to start her on crisis management firm in the ABC drama "Scandal" this fall, rubbed shoulders with super athletes like Serena Williams and Brian Wilson donning an elegant updo, shimmering eye shadow and glossy nude lips.

Downtown: V-DAY's Viva Vevolution! Fundraiser
Look: Washington is a vision in voluminous curls, perfectly arched brows, subtle blush and fuchsia lipstick.

Warning: Not only is this newspaper-inspired nail art super cool, but it can potentially lead to getting tipsy.

Kelsey of the Tumblr Quiet Time accepted the challenge to up her manicure skills with a written word design that has been popping up on many of our favorite beauty sites like Refinery29 and Dolce Vanity. And we love the creative idea of using the local paper than reading the most recent piece of breaking news.

The blogger perfected this print in just a few steps. First, she applied a neutral nail color like OPI Samoan Sand and allowed to dry. Then she dipped each fingernail into alcohol -- we'd recommend using vodka for better results. Press a large strip of newspaper onto the top of each soaked nail. Remove slowly and finish with a glossy top coat to seal.

What do you think about this DIY nail art?

Tell us in the comments section and shop the products below to recreate this look.

Meanwhile, check out this glitter manicure created at the new Sephora Nail Art Studio.

Uptown: "Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty" Costume Institute Gala
Look: The 29-year-old socialite and House of Harlow designer channels Old Hollywood glamour in cascading blond curls, gray smoky eye makeup and ruby red lipstick.

Downtown: Ella Moss 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
Look: Richie rocks a pretty summer look that starts with a French braid, black mascara atop her lashes and hot pink pout.