La Roche Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum Review 2026

Dark spots can make your skin look older and tired. You try different products, but nothing seems to work. La Roche Posay released their Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum with a promise to change everything. This serum uses new technology called Melasyl combined with 10% niacinamide.

But does it live up to the hype? I spent weeks researching this product, reading user reviews, and analyzing the ingredients. This review will help you decide if this serum is worth your money. You will learn about the ingredients, how to use it, what results to expect, and whether cheaper alternatives exist. Let’s find out if this serum can finally solve your dark spot problems.

Key Takeaways

The Five Most Important Things You Need to Know:

Your skin deserves effective treatment for stubborn dark spots. La Roche Posay Mela B3 Serum combines Melasyl technology with 10% niacinamide to target multiple types of discoloration. Clinical studies show 90% of users saw dark spot reduction after 8 weeks of consistent use. The serum works on sunspots, age spots, and post acne marks without harsh ingredients like hydroquinone.

The price sits at $44.99 for 1 fluid ounce, which makes it a premium skincare investment. You need to apply 3-4 drops twice daily on clean skin for best results. The formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin and dermatologist tested for safety.

Results appear gradually, with some users seeing improvements in 2 weeks while others need several months. Real user reviews show mixed experiences, with many praising the texture and safety profile. Some users report minimal changes even after extended use.

The serum requires patience and consistency to work effectively. You must pair it with sunscreen during the day to prevent new dark spots from forming. Alternative products exist at lower price points, offering similar ingredients for budget conscious shoppers.

Consider your skin type, budget, and patience level before purchasing. This serum works best for people committed to a long term skincare routine who want a gentle, science backed approach to treating hyperpigmentation.

La Roche Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum Overview

La Roche Posay created this serum to fight stubborn dark spots that refuse to fade. The product launched with a powerful formula featuring Melasyl, a proprietary ingredient developed through years of research. This anti aging serum targets multiple types of skin discoloration including sunspots, age spots, and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.

The serum comes in a 1 fluid ounce bottle with a dropper for precise application. You get a lightweight, water based gel texture that absorbs quickly into your skin. The formula contains no harsh ingredients like hydroquinone, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. La Roche Posay designed this product for daily use, both morning and evening, to maximize results.

The brand positions this serum as a clinically proven solution backed by dermatological testing. Users can expect visible improvements in skin tone and brightness with consistent application. The product works by intercepting excess melanin production before dark spots form on the skin surface.

What Makes Melasyl Technology Special

Melasyl represents a breakthrough in dark spot treatment technology. This patented ingredient works differently from traditional brightening agents. The molecule intercepts melanin production at an early stage, preventing dark spots before they become visible on your skin surface.

Scientists at L’Oréal laboratories developed Melasyl after extensive research into hyperpigmentation causes. The ingredient targets the melanin synthesis pathway more effectively than older alternatives. Some experts claim it performs even better than hydroquinone, the gold standard in dark spot treatment.

Melasyl molecules are smaller than traditional brightening ingredients, allowing deeper skin penetration. This helps the ingredient reach melanocytes where pigmentation actually begins. The technology focuses on prevention as much as correction, stopping new dark spots from forming while fading existing ones.

The ingredient works synergistically with niacinamide to enhance overall brightening effects. Clinical trials showed impressive results when Melasyl combined with other proven ingredients. This innovative approach gives users a gentler alternative to harsh chemical treatments that can irritate sensitive skin.

The Power of 10% Niacinamide in This Formula

Niacinamide stands as one of the most researched and proven skincare ingredients available. La Roche Posay includes a full 10% concentration in their Mela B3 serum, ensuring maximum effectiveness. This vitamin B3 derivative works on multiple skin concerns beyond just dark spots.

The ingredient reduces inflammation that leads to post acne marks. It strengthens your skin barrier, helping retain moisture and protect against environmental damage. Niacinamide regulates sebum production, making it beneficial for oily and acne prone skin types. The ingredient also minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines.

When combined with Melasyl, niacinamide creates a powerful one two punch against hyperpigmentation. The ingredient inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, preventing pigment from reaching the skin surface. Studies show niacinamide can reduce dark spots by up to 35% after 8 weeks of use.

The 10% concentration provides therapeutic benefits without causing irritation for most users. This percentage sits in the sweet spot where efficacy meets tolerability. Your skin gets potent brightening effects while staying calm and hydrated throughout the treatment process.

Complete Ingredient Breakdown

Understanding what goes into this serum helps you make an informed decision. The formula contains LHA (lipohydroxy acid), a gentle exfoliant that removes dead skin cells. This ingredient works slowly and steadily, making it perfect for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate stronger acids.

The serum includes glycerin as a humectant to keep skin hydrated during the brightening process. Thermal spring water from La Roche Posay adds soothing properties that calm potential irritation. The formula contains pentylene glycol and propylene glycol to help other ingredients penetrate better.

Phenoxyethanol and salicylic acid serve as preservatives and mild exfoliants. The serum uses hydroxyethylcellulose and sodium hydroxide for texture and pH balance. Dimethiconol provides a silky feel upon application without leaving heavy residue.

The formula avoids common irritants like fragrance, parabens, and sulfates. You won’t find any essential oils or drying alcohols in this product. This careful ingredient selection makes the serum suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin that struggles with most treatments.

Top 3 Alternatives for La Roche Posay Mela B3 Serum

Looking for other options to treat your dark spots? These three alternatives offer excellent results at different price points. Each product uses proven ingredients to target hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

How to Use the Mela B3 Serum Correctly

Proper application maximizes your results with this serum. Start by cleansing your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, leaving it slightly damp for better product absorption.

Dispense 3 to 4 drops of serum onto your fingertips or directly onto your face. Avoid pumping out too much product, as a little goes a long way. Apply the serum to your entire face and neck, avoiding the delicate eye area. Gently massage the product into your skin using upward motions.

Use the serum twice daily, once in the morning and once at night after cleansing. Morning application should always be followed by sunscreen with at least SPF 30. The La Roche Posay Mela B3 UV Daily Moisturizer pairs perfectly with this serum for daytime protection.

Wait a few minutes for the serum to fully absorb before applying other products. Follow with your regular moisturizer if your skin needs extra hydration. The gel texture allows for easy layering with other skincare items in your routine. Consistency matters more than quantity when using this serum, so stick to your routine daily for best results.

Expected Results and Realistic Timeline

Understanding the timeline helps set proper expectations for your dark spot treatment journey. Clinical studies show that 100% of testers noticed improvements in just 2 weeks of consistent use. However, individual results vary based on skin type, dark spot severity, and overall skincare routine.

After 4 weeks, many users report brighter, more even skin tone with reduced appearance of lighter dark spots. The serum works faster on fresh post acne marks compared to older, deeper pigmentation. Sun damage and age spots typically require more time to show significant fading.

By 8 weeks, 90% of clinical study participants experienced visible dark spot reduction. This timeframe represents the sweet spot where most people see their best results. Some stubborn spots may require 12 weeks or longer to show noticeable improvement.

Real user experiences from Reddit show mixed timelines. One user reported visible changes after 7 months of consistent use, noting that some spots faded while new breakouts created fresh marks. Remember that hyperpigmentation treatment requires patience and dedication. Your skin regenerates every 28 days, so multiple cycles are needed for deep seated discoloration to surface and fade.

Real User Reviews and Experiences

Real people provide the most honest insights into product performance. Amazon reviews show a 4.4 star rating from over 11,300 customers, indicating generally positive experiences. Users praise the lightweight texture that absorbs quickly without leaving sticky residue.

Many reviewers mention minimal irritation even with sensitive skin conditions. The gentle formula allows twice daily use without redness or peeling. Users appreciate that the serum works well under makeup and doesn’t pill when layered with other products.

However, some users report disappointing results after months of consistent use. These reviewers note that while lighter spots showed improvement, deeper or more stubborn dark spots remained largely unchanged. Several customers mention the high price point as a concern, especially when results take months to appear.

Reddit users share more detailed journey experiences. One person documented 7 months of use with before and after photos, showing gradual improvement in overall skin tone. The user noted that new breakouts created fresh marks during the treatment period, making it hard to judge effectiveness on older spots.

Social media reviews highlight the product’s gentle nature as a major selling point. Users with rosacea and eczema report being able to use the serum without flare ups. The consensus suggests this serum works best for people willing to commit to a long term routine with patience and realistic expectations.

Comparing Price and Value

The Mela B3 serum costs $44.99 for 1 fluid ounce at most retailers. This price point places it firmly in the premium skincare category. When you calculate cost per use, the product provides approximately 60 applications if using 3 to 4 drops twice daily.

This means each application costs about $0.75, which adds up to roughly $45 per month for consistent daily use. The serum lasts about one month with regular twice daily application. For long term dark spot treatment, you’re looking at a 3 to 6 month commitment, totaling $135 to $270.

Compared to alternative treatments, the price sits in the middle range. Professional treatments like laser therapy can cost thousands of dollars per session. Prescription treatments like hydroquinone cost less but come with more side effect risks. Over the counter alternatives like vitamin C serums range from $10 to $80.

The value proposition depends on your priorities. You pay for dermatologist tested formulation, patented ingredients, and a trusted brand reputation. The gentle formula suitable for sensitive skin adds value for people who cannot tolerate harsher alternatives. Budget conscious shoppers might find similar results with less expensive niacinamide serums, though without the patented Melasyl technology.

Best Skin Types for This Serum

This serum works for most skin types, but some benefit more than others. Sensitive skin types appreciate the gentle, non irritating formula free from harsh chemicals. The inclusion of thermal spring water provides soothing properties that calm reactive skin during the brightening process.

Oily and combination skin types enjoy the lightweight gel texture that doesn’t add extra shine or clog pores. The niacinamide content helps regulate sebum production, making it doubly beneficial for acne prone skin dealing with post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The serum absorbs quickly without leaving greasy residue.

Dry skin users may need to follow up with a richer moisturizer, as the serum focuses on treatment rather than intense hydration. However, the glycerin content provides some moisture binding benefits. Mature skin types benefit from the anti aging properties of niacinamide beyond just dark spot correction.

People with melasma or hormonal pigmentation should manage expectations, as these conditions prove more stubborn than sun spots or post acne marks. The serum works best on surface level discoloration rather than deep dermal pigmentation. Anyone with active inflammation or open wounds should wait until skin heals before starting treatment.

Potential Side Effects and Safety

La Roche Posay designed this serum with safety as a priority. The formula undergoes dermatologist testing to ensure tolerability across various skin types. Most users experience no side effects when using the product as directed.

Some people may notice mild tingling during the first few applications as skin adjusts to active ingredients. This sensation typically subsides within a few days of continued use. Temporary dryness or flaking can occur, especially when first introducing niacinamide to your routine.

Rare allergic reactions might include redness, itching, or burning sensations. If you experience these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist. Patch testing on a small skin area before full face application helps identify potential sensitivities.

The serum contains no hydroquinone, avoiding the risks associated with this controversial ingredient. You won’t face the rebound hyperpigmentation or ochronosis that sometimes occurs with hydroquinone use. The formula excludes common irritants like fragrance and essential oils that trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare providers before using any new skincare products. While the ingredients appear generally safe, individual medical situations vary. The LHA and salicylic acid content, though minimal, warrants professional guidance during pregnancy.

Layering with Other Skincare Products

Building a complete routine around this serum requires strategic layering. Start with a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin barrier. La Roche Posay Toleriane or Cetaphil work well as first steps before serum application.

After cleansing, apply the Mela B3 serum to bare skin for maximum absorption. Wait 2 to 3 minutes for complete penetration before adding other products. If you use other treatment serums like retinol or vitamin C, careful scheduling prevents irritation.

Vitamin C pairs well with niacinamide contrary to old myths about ingredient conflicts. Apply vitamin C in the morning under Mela B3 serum for enhanced brightening effects. Save retinol for nighttime use, applying it after the Mela B3 serum has fully absorbed.

Moisturizer goes on top of the serum to seal in hydration and active ingredients. Choose a non comedogenic option if you have oily or acne prone skin. The Mela B3 UV Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 serves as an excellent daytime follow up.

Never skip sunscreen when using dark spot treatments. UV exposure triggers new pigmentation and undoes your progress. Apply a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning as your final skincare step. Reapply every 2 hours when spending extended time outdoors.

Morning vs Evening Application

The serum works effectively at both times of day, but each offers distinct benefits. Morning application prepares your skin for daily environmental stressors. The niacinamide strengthens your skin barrier against pollution and UV damage throughout the day.

Pairing the serum with sunscreen in the morning provides crucial protection. Dark spot treatments make skin more photosensitive, requiring diligent sun protection. The lightweight formula sits well under makeup and other daytime products without pilling.

Evening application allows the serum to work during your skin’s natural repair cycle. Your skin regenerates most actively during sleep, making nighttime ideal for treatment products. You can layer the serum with retinol or other active ingredients for enhanced results.

Using the product twice daily speeds up results compared to once daily application. The clinical studies showing 90% effectiveness after 8 weeks used a twice daily protocol. However, if your skin shows signs of irritation, cutting back to once daily application makes sense.

Some users prefer morning only application when combining with other strong actives. This approach reduces the risk of overwhelming your skin with too many ingredients. Listen to your skin’s response and adjust frequency based on tolerance and results. Consistency matters more than timing, so choose a schedule you can maintain long term.

Combining with Professional Treatments

This serum complements many professional skincare procedures. Chemical peels work synergistically with Mela B3, as both target pigmentation through different mechanisms. Wait 2 to 3 days after a professional peel before reintroducing the serum to avoid irritation.

Microneedling creates micro channels that enhance serum absorption. Dermatologists often recommend applying Mela B3 after the initial healing period from microneedling sessions. This combination approach can accelerate dark spot fading compared to either treatment alone.

Laser treatments for pigmentation work well alongside this serum. Use the product before laser therapy to prep skin and continue afterward to maintain results. However, avoid application for 24 to 48 hours immediately after laser procedures to prevent irritation.

Your dermatologist might prescribe hydroquinone or tretinoin for stubborn pigmentation. The Mela B3 serum can serve as a gentler maintenance option between prescription treatment cycles. This approach gives your skin breaks from harsh ingredients while continuing improvement.

IPL photofacials target deep pigmentation that topical products cannot reach. The Mela B3 serum helps maintain results from IPL treatments by preventing new dark spots from forming. Always inform your skincare professional about all products you’re using to ensure safe, effective combination therapy.

Seasonal Considerations and Sun Protection

Dark spot treatment requires year round commitment, but seasonal factors affect your approach. Summer months demand extra vigilance with sunscreen application. UV rays intensify pigmentation, potentially undoing months of serum use in hours of unprotected sun exposure.

Apply sunscreen generously over the Mela B3 serum every morning, using at least SPF 30. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, regardless of cloud cover. Wear protective clothing and seek shade during peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Winter weather brings different challenges with dry air and indoor heating. Your skin may need richer moisturizers over the serum to combat seasonal dehydration. Cold weather doesn’t mean less sun protection; UV rays reflect off snow and penetrate clouds.

Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for intensive dark spot treatment. Milder temperatures and lower UV indices create optimal environments for skin improvement. These transition seasons work well for starting the serum or ramping up to twice daily application.

Indoor environments matter too. Blue light from screens can trigger pigmentation in susceptible individuals. Some dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens with iron oxides for indoor protection. Consistency with your Mela B3 routine matters more than perfect conditions, so adapt your supporting products to seasonal needs while maintaining regular serum application.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage maintains the serum’s effectiveness throughout its lifespan. Keep the bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Bathroom storage works fine if your bathroom doesn’t get excessively hot or humid.

Close the cap tightly after each use to prevent air exposure that degrades active ingredients. The dropper design helps maintain product integrity by limiting contamination. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your skin or other surfaces during application.

The serum typically maintains potency for 12 months after opening when stored correctly. Check the packaging for the PAO (period after opening) symbol showing exact timeframe. Unopened bottles last longer, usually 2 to 3 years from the manufacturing date.

Signs of expired product include color changes, unusual odor, or separation of ingredients. If the serum develops a strange smell or appearance, discard it immediately. Using expired products won’t harm you but won’t deliver the promised results.

Temperature extremes damage the formula’s stability. Never leave the serum in a hot car or freezing temperatures. Room temperature between 60 to 75°F provides ideal storage conditions. Proper care ensures you get the full value and effectiveness from your investment in this premium serum.

Budget Friendly Alternatives

Not everyone can afford premium priced serums, but effective alternatives exist. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum costs only $12 and features tranexamic acid with niacinamide. This combination targets dark spots through a different mechanism than Melasyl but delivers solid results.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% provides high concentration niacinamide for under $8. While lacking the patented Melasyl, this cult favorite product shows impressive results for many users. The zinc addition helps control oil and calm inflammation.

Naturium Tranexamic Acid Serum offers another budget option around $20. This formula combines tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide for comprehensive pigmentation treatment. Users report results comparable to luxury brands at a fraction of the price.

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum works on dark spots through cell turnover acceleration. The $15 price point includes ceramides for barrier support alongside retinol. This option suits people wanting multi tasking benefits beyond just dark spot correction.

Consider The Inkey List Tranexamic Acid Serum at $12 for gentle yet effective treatment. The minimalist formula focuses on key ingredients without unnecessary additives. These alternatives prove you don’t need to spend $45 to see dark spot improvement, though results and timelines may vary from premium options.

When to Expect Results

Patience proves essential when treating hyperpigmentation with any topical product. Week 1 to 2 typically shows minimal visible changes. Your skin adjusts to the new ingredients during this initial phase. Some people notice improved texture or subtle brightness.

Week 3 to 4 brings the first real signs of progress for many users. Lighter, newer dark spots may start fading noticeably. Your overall skin tone might appear more even and radiant. Post acne marks respond faster than sun damage or age spots during this period.

Week 5 to 8 represents the clinical study timeframe showing 90% user satisfaction. Most people see their best results during this window. Stubborn spots lighten gradually, though deep pigmentation requires more time. Take progress photos in consistent lighting to track subtle improvements.

Month 3 to 6 continues the fading process for persistent discoloration. Some spots may require this extended timeline to show significant change. Melasma and hormonal pigmentation prove most stubborn, sometimes needing 6 months or longer for noticeable improvement.

Real user experiences suggest 7 months of consistent use produces the most dramatic transformations. However, individual results depend on multiple factors including skin type, pigmentation depth, sun protection habits, and overall skincare routine. Consistency trumps perfection, so maintain your routine even when progress seems slow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people sabotage their results through preventable errors. Skipping sunscreen ranks as the biggest mistake when using any dark spot treatment. UV exposure triggers new pigmentation faster than serums can fade existing spots, creating a frustrating cycle of two steps forward, three steps back.

Using too much product wastes money without improving results. The 3 to 4 drop recommendation provides sufficient coverage for your entire face and neck. More product doesn’t mean faster results; it just empties your bottle quicker and may increase irritation risk.

Inconsistent application prevents you from seeing true effectiveness. Missing days or using the serum sporadically extends your timeline significantly. Set phone reminders if you struggle with routine consistency. Think of the serum like medication that requires regular dosing for optimal results.

Expecting overnight miracles leads to disappointment and premature abandonment. Hyperpigmentation develops over months or years; reversing it takes time too. Give the product at least 8 weeks before judging effectiveness. Progress photos help you notice gradual changes that seem invisible day to day.

Mixing too many actives can irritate your skin and cause inflammation that worsens pigmentation. Stick to a simple routine while using Mela B3. Avoid combining it with multiple exfoliants, strong retinoids, or other aggressive treatments without dermatologist guidance. Sometimes less really is more in skincare.

FAQ

How long does one bottle of La Roche Posay Mela B3 serum last?

One bottle contains 1 fluid ounce or 30 milliliters of product. With the recommended 3 to 4 drops twice daily, you get approximately 60 applications total. This means one bottle lasts about one month with consistent twice daily use. Some users stretch it slightly longer by using exactly 3 drops per application or applying once daily instead of twice. For best results shown in clinical studies, plan to purchase a new bottle monthly for at least 2 to 3 months.

Can I use this serum if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, La Roche Posay specifically formulated this serum for sensitive skin types. The product contains thermal spring water that soothes and calms reactive skin. The formula excludes common irritants like fragrance, parabens, essential oils, and drying alcohols. Dermatologist testing confirms tolerability across various skin types including sensitive. However, everyone’s skin reacts differently to new products. Perform a patch test on your inner arm before full face application. Start with once daily use for the first week to allow your skin to adjust.

Does this serum work on melasma?

The serum can help with melasma, but results vary significantly between individuals. Melasma involves deeper, hormonally driven pigmentation that proves more stubborn than sun spots or post acne marks. The Melasyl and niacinamide combination targets melanin production, which helps with all types of hyperpigmentation. However, melasma often requires longer treatment periods of 6 months or more. Many dermatologists recommend combining the serum with prescription treatments and strict sun protection for melasma cases. Manage expectations and consider professional consultation for persistent melasma.

Can I use vitamin C serum with La Roche Posay Mela B3?

Absolutely. Old myths claimed niacinamide and vitamin C couldn’t be used together, but modern research disproves this. The two ingredients actually complement each other for enhanced brightening effects. Apply your vitamin C serum first on clean skin, wait 2 to 3 minutes for absorption, then apply the Mela B3 serum. Both work through different mechanisms to target pigmentation, providing synergistic benefits. This combination proves particularly effective for stubborn dark spots. Just ensure your skin tolerates both ingredients without irritation.

Will my dark spots come back after I stop using the serum?

Dark spots won’t return immediately after stopping the serum, but prevention requires ongoing effort. The serum doesn’t cure the underlying tendency to develop hyperpigmentation; it treats existing spots and prevents new ones during use. Sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation, and aging can trigger new dark spots after you discontinue the product. Many users adopt a maintenance approach, using the serum 3 to 4 times per week after achieving desired results. Daily sunscreen remains crucial whether or not you continue the serum. Think of it as an ongoing skincare commitment rather than a one time fix.

Is this serum safe during pregnancy?

The safety of skincare ingredients during pregnancy requires careful consideration. La Roche Posay Mela B3 serum contains niacinamide, which generally appears safe for pregnant women. However, the formula includes small amounts of salicylic acid and LHA, which belong to the beta hydroxy acid family. While the concentration seems minimal, some doctors advise avoiding BHAs during pregnancy. The proprietary Melasyl ingredient lacks extensive pregnancy safety data. Always consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before using any new skincare products during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They can assess your specific situation and recommend safe alternatives if needed.

Can teenagers use this serum for acne marks?

Yes, teenagers dealing with post inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne can safely use this serum. The gentle formula works well for younger skin without causing excessive dryness or irritation. The niacinamide content provides added benefits for acne prone skin by regulating oil production and reducing inflammation. However, teenagers should focus equally on treating active acne to prevent new dark spots from forming. Pairing the serum with appropriate acne treatments and daily sunscreen creates the best approach. Parents should supervise initial use and watch for any signs of irritation. Starting with once daily application helps younger skin adjust to the active ingredients.

How does this compare to prescription hydroquinone?

Hydroquinone remains the gold standard prescription treatment for hyperpigmentation, typically showing faster results than over the counter options. However, it comes with potential side effects including irritation, redness, and rare complications like ochronosis with long term use. The Mela B3 serum offers a gentler alternative without hydroquinone’s risks. Some experts claim Melasyl performs comparably to hydroquinone in effectiveness. The serum works better for people with sensitive skin or those wanting to avoid prescription treatments. For severe or resistant pigmentation, dermatologists may recommend starting with hydroquinone then switching to Mela B3 for maintenance. The choice depends on your pigmentation severity, skin sensitivity, and personal preference.

Last update on 2026-02-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API