Complexion Class 05: A Study on Sunspots
Looking forward to a summer spent in the sun? Time for a refresher on sun-safe skin care!
Extra sun exposure this time of year is inevitable — but sunspots don’t have to be! By using the right products before and after spending time outside, you can prevent extra pigment from popping up and minimize the appearance of existing sunspots.
In today’s episode of Complexion Class, our Atlanta provider and nurse practitioner Ashley Harrison explains how sunspots form and shares the three must-have products you need to prevent and treat them.
Watch the full episode below or read on for the recap!
What are sunspots?
Sunspots are flat, brown spots that appear on areas of the skin with frequent sun exposure. While noncancerous, they’re still the result of UV damage. When UV radiation hits our skin, the skin responds by creating more melanin. This melanin tends to clump up on our skin and creates those pesky sunspots.
How can I prevent sunspots from forming?
Sunscreen is actually the best thing you can do to prevent UV radiation from impacting your skin or causing other forms of sun damage! Make sure it’s at least SPF 30. I recommend Sheer Defense SPF, which protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It’s lightweight, lightly tinted and contains moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, too!
PRESS PLAY: Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen >
Next, you’ll need a good vitamin C serum in your routine. Look for one with l-ascorbic acid, like Glow Factor. L-ascorbic acid is going to be your most bioavailable form of vitamin C, which means that your skin can absorb it better than other forms of vitamin C. This offers additional protection from UV radiation. It also helps to break up some of that pigment, so it can brighten your skin, too!
Is there anything I can do to lighten existing sunspots?
Glow Factor can help with this, too! It stimulates cell turnover and collagen production to even and brighten your skin. Pair it with a moisturizer like High Beam to lighten sunspots even more! High Beam contains arbutin and licorice root, which inhibit melanin production and, in turn, brighten skin. It’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating — the perfect summer (and all-year-round) moisturizer!
