If you’re fortunate enough to live in a warm climate, are a frequent holiday goer or a serial sunbather, you probably will have come across sunspots at some point in your life. While they may look and sound a little scary, they are incredibly common and can often be confused with other more serious skin-related issues caused by sun damage. Anyone can develop sunspots but they are most common in those with fair skin and adults over the age of 40. While sunspots can be removed depending on the severity, it’s important to monitor them overtime and get them checked with a dermatologist if you notice a change in their appearance.
Here’s a concise guide of everything you need to know about sunspots including; what they are, how to prevent them and how they can be removed.
What are Sunspots?
Sunspots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are flat brown spots that develop after prolonged exposure to the sun. They are formed when UV radiation causes pigmented skin cells called melanocytes to multiply causing hyperpigmentation, changing the skin’s colour. All sunspots are different and will vary in size, shape and colour. They most commonly appear in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun such as; the face, shoulders, chest, forearms and back of hands.
How to prevent them?
Like any other skin damage caused by UV rays, the main method of prevention is being diligent with your SPF routine. A common misconception with sun protection is that it’s only necessary during the summer months when the sun is more powerful. In actual fact, SPF should be used everyday to protect the skin and reduce damage caused by rays. Not only will this help to reduce pigmentation and discolouration, but it will also help slow down ageing effects too. A lot of skincare and cosmetic products will have SPF included in the formulation, so make sure you are checking the label before purchasing. In Summer or whilst on holiday, ensure you’re topping up on your sun protection every 2 hours and always reapply if your skin gets wet. During peak hours, try to avoid the sun entirely and head for shade, especially if you have fair skin.
How to treat them?
While sunspots and hyperpigmentation are not harmful and do not need to be treated, many people choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Fortunately, there are many products available that contain active ingredients which are proven to improve the appearance of dark patches. Here’s a breakdown of the one’s you should be looking out for.
Lactic acid
This super ingredient is a naturally occurring AHA that provides gentle exfoliation to remove dull, dead skin cells, whilst retaining moisture to refine, smooth and nourish the complexion.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a multi-tasking antioxidant, also known as Vitamin B3. It helps reduce the appearance of uneven tone and pigmentation. It also prevents moisture loss, protects the skin from pollutants and brightens the complexion.
Sodium Lactate
Naturally derived from the salt of lactic acid, Sodium Lactate has excellent humectant properties that replenish the moisture content in the skin to help keep it hydrated, supple and smooth.
Mulberry Leaf Extract
Mulberry Leaf Extract helps to fade dark spots and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone resulting in a bright and naturally radiant complexion.
Root Extract
This natural ingredient contains anti-oxidants to soothe, brighten and reduce the appearance of dark patches and discolouration.
Vitamin C
Pure Vitamin C known as L-ascorbic acid protects your skin from UV rays, promotes collagen production, and is proven to be effective in lightening dark spots.
While these ingredients will help to reduce the appearance of sunspots, for more intense pigmentations, professional treatments maybe necessary such as resurfacing, microdermabrasion and cryotherapy.
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