Say Goodbye to Sun Spots on Face: the Right Way to Shine Through the Season

Brace yourself for the summer season! You may have been eagerly awaiting for its arrival, but with all those extra hours of sunshine to soak in come added risks too - sun spots on skin. 

Whether you’re tanning at the beach or basking in your backyard, we know that sun protection is essential, and understanding how to treat unwanted skin discoloration is equally important. Now, it's time to say goodbye to those unsightly sunspots and learn how you can shine through the season by taking care of your skin!

What are sun spots on skin?

Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines or age spots, are small, usually brown patches appearing on areas of the skin most exposed to the sun. They are a result of an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. While they may serve as a reminder of our time in the sun, recognizing these spots is vital not just for cosmetic reasons but also for monitoring skin health, as changes in pigmentation can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, including skin cancer.

According to dermatological studies, over 90% of adults aged 50 and older show some signs of sun spots due to cumulative sun exposure throughout their lives. Typically, sun spots are small, flat, and brown, and while they are generally harmless, it's always a good idea to check with a dermatologist if you notice any irregular changes.

Why does sun exposure cause spots on face?

Sun exposure can have a multitude of effects on our skin, including the formation of dark spots on our faces. In addition to sun spots, many individuals may experience freckles and melasma. Freckles are small and often fade with reduced sun exposure, while melasma usually appears as larger, darker patches, often triggered by hormonal changes. The sun's UV radiation can trigger an increase in melanin production in our skin, leading to the formation of these spots.

Factors that increase the likelihood of developing sun spots include having fair skin, a family history of skin spots, and a history of severe sunburns. While age spots are not harmful to our health, they can be a frustrating cosmetic issue for many individuals.

Ensuring we take proper precautions when exposed to the sun—such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, limiting our time in direct sunlight, and wearing protective clothing—can help prevent the formation of these pesky spots.

Not-so-fun sun spots signs

When it comes to sun spots, we're not talking about your average freckles. These spots are typically larger and may have a slightly scaly texture, setting them apart from their smaller counterparts. They often appear as flat, brown spots on the skin and are typically painless. While sun spots may lack the charm of freckles, they have their own unique qualities that make them noteworthy.

How to prevent sun spots this summer

As much as we love soaking up the sun, our skin doesn't always feel the same way, especially when it comes to sun spots. Fortunately, there are many sun safety habits you can adopt to prevent them.

Wear broad spectrum sunscreen everyday

First and foremost, always wear sunscreen (yes, even when it's cloudy, it is necessary to apply sun protection). Not just any sunscreen; opt for broad-spectrum formulas with an SPF of at least 30. Consider reapplying every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

Physical sunscreen

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Don’t abuse sun exposure

We all love sunshine, but intense sun exposure can have serious consequences on our skin, especially during peak hours. Sun spots are just one of the many effects that can result from what may seem like harmless fun in the sun. While sun spots may seem merely cosmetic, they can actually signal potential skin damage.

Next time you're contemplating soaking up some rays, remember that moderation is key. The more you expose your skin to sunlight, the greater the risk of developing darker spots and possible long-term skin damage.

Wear protective clothing

Sun protective clothing not only enhances your style but also significantly reduces your risk of developing sun spots, also known as age spots or liver spots. Along with sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses can further safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays.

Stay hydrated

Don't forget to stay hydrated—hydrated skin is healthy skin. Keeping your skin fresh and plump helps prevent pesky spots from emerging. So remember to drink plenty of water, and why not add a slice of lemon for a refreshing twist?

How to get rid of sunspots

Sunspots are like unwelcome house guests that refuse to leave. And no matter how many hints you drop, they just won't take the hint. But fear not! There are ways to bid adieu to these pesky spots. Let’s find out about them!

Products

There are loads of products out there that can help you get rid of those pesky spots! From serums to topical creams, the choices are endless. 

Vitamin C

Not only does vitamin C boost your immune system, but it's also a powerhouse ingredient in skincare. Vitamin C works to brighten and even out skin tone, which means those sunspots will be fading away faster than you can say SPF.

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Kojic acid

Kojic acid - derived from fungi - works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its color and helps form sunspots.

Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid, an exfoliating alpha-hydroxy acid, helps to break down the pigmented cells that create those pesky little spots. Not only will these products help to diminish the appearance of sunspots, but they can also improve skin texture and tone.

Chemical exfoliator

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Clarifying toner

Clarifying toner AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

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Lactic acid

This magical ingredient gently exfoliates the skin and removes dead skin cells,  revealing a brighter and more even complexion. So don't let sunspots rain on your parade, with lactic acid products as your trusty umbrella, you can strut your stuff with confidence and a flawless face.

Retinoids

Retinoid creams are derived from vitamin A and can help to reduce sunspots by speeding up cell turnover and encouraging collagen production, leading to smoother and more even skin tone over time.

Licorice extract

Licorice extract has been found to reduce hyperpigmentation signs, making it a natural and effective solution for those unsightly brown spots.

Professional treatment

Chemical Peeling

Chemical peels involve applying an acid solution to the skin that helps to remove damaged cells and encourage new cell growth, which can reduce the appearance of sunspots over time.

Laser resurfacing

Laser treatment uses a concentrated beam of light to remove the top layer of skin and stimulate new collagen production.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy

IPL therapy is like a superhero, used to target specific areas of hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage. This non-invasive treatment uses a light beam to penetrate deep into your skin, targeting hyperpigmentation and stimulating collagen production. 

Cryotherapy 

Cryotherapy uses super cold temperatures to freeze and remove those unwanted sunspots. It's like a mini ice age for your skin!

Microdermabrasion

This magical procedure uses exfoliation to get rid of pesky sunspots while leaving your skin refreshed and renewed. Imagine a tiny army of soldiers scrubbing away at your skin, eliminating all those unwanted blemishes.

Can sunspots on skin lead to skin cancer?

Did you know that those cute little sunspots on your skin could be hiding a more sinister secret? While they may seem harmless, these spots are actually evidence of damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Over time, this damage can accumulate and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. 

The thing about skin cancer is that it's tricky. You might not even realize it's forming until it's too late. That's why it's important to pay attention to the signs your body is giving you and to take action to protect yourself.

Visit an expert

Are you noticing more and more sunspots appearing on your skin? It’s important to know that not all sunspots are created equal. Some are harmless age spots, while others can be a sign of something more serious, like skin cancer. If you’re feeling worried about skin pigmentation disorders, it’s always best to consult an expert. A board certified dermatologist can help determine the cause of your sunspots and recommend the best mechanisms regulating skin pigmentation. Don’t let fear hold you back from taking care of your skin. Visit an expert and stay informed about your health.

Where to find the best products to treat sun spots?

Asian Beauty Essentials has all your sunspot worries covered. Whether you’re looking to prevent them entirely or get rid of them, they have the products to help you do just that. Among the extensive and effective range of options, finding an effective treatment shouldn’t be too difficult. 

With a little bit of dedication and attention devoted to your skincare routine, you should be able to see results soon enough! Who knows? In no time at all, you may even be mistaken for a movie starlet with Hollywood-grade skin.