Photoaging (skin aging caused by the sun) and facial hyperpigmentation are closely related. Although we know the importance of using sunscreen when exposed to the sun, we often don’t take it seriously enough. Not until the first sun spots appear, more commonly known as hyperpigmentation. Skin aging is largely caused by sun exposure, but it is also a normal process of life on Earth. However, the biggest problems can certainly be prevented and treated. Below, we bring you everything you need to know in order to not regret looking in the mirror seeing age spots.
What is photoaging and how to prevent it?
Photoaging hides the culprit in its very name, namely “photo,” which means “light.” The largest source of light is precisely the sun to which we are exposed, but premature skin aging, which results in changes in the color of the skin, can also be caused by laser treatments, chemical peels, or certain topical medications. Sun exposure actually dries out the skin, and subsequently, lack of hydration results in lines and wrinkles. Thus, the sun’s influence, in addition to changes in color, is quite significant for the loss of elasticity and the development of wrinkles that are not so easy to remove.
Laser treatments can cause sensitivity to the sun, while chemical peels and certain topical medications contain acids that damage the skin and make it less resistant to solar radiation. For this reason, it is recommended to use SPF/protective factor and to reduce sun exposure when undergoing any of the previous treatments. Various acids such as salicylic, glycolic, and in general AHA and BHA acids should also be used carefully, and one must heed the warning to use protection as if it were sacred scripture if we do not want to further accelerate aging.
Throughout life, we will surely be exposed to a certain dose of skin damage due to the sun, most often in the summer months. Some skin types will be more resistant to photoaging (mostly darker skin), while some types will be more sensitive (light skin and skin with a damaged barrier, i.e. sensitive skin). Lighter skin tends to redden quickly during the summer. It is important to know your own skin and provide it with protection in the form of SPF cream, clothing, hats, or simply staying in the shade during the strongest sun.
Learn more about how to alleviate or completely remove the signs of photoaging below.
What are sun spots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation on the face?
The best example of photoaging in an earlier stage is exactly the hyperpigmentation of the face and other parts of the skin often exposed to the sun – hands, arms, décolletage, and shoulders, i.e. the upper back. You may have also heard of another term – melasma, which describes larger brown or even grayish spots on the face. Hyperpigmentation is also those cute freckles that (most often) people with fair skin or individuals exposed to the sun for a larger part of the year have. However, a somewhat bigger problem is sunspots, which occupy a larger area or turn into melasma.
One of the most common problems is the so-called sun mustache, or the darker skin above the upper lip which, if not treated, only becomes darker over the years. In older age, the term “age spots” is also commonly known. They are most often seen on the face, décolletage, and hands, and are the result of years of untreated hyperpigmentation. Melasma on the face is a problem that many women would gladly eliminate, and fortunately, there are many ways to reduce and keep it under control.
Active ingredients that treat photoaging:
- niacinamide – active form of vitamin B3 that evens out and brightens the skin, and also acts against. Does not cause sun sensitivity.
- bioretinol – innovative natural alternative to retinol that brightens hyperpigmentation, evens out skin tone, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and improves skin texture. Does not cause sun sensitivity.
- antioxidants – although they do not have a direct lightening effect, cosmetic products with antioxidants help strengthen the skin and reduce its sensitivity to the sun and other external factors. Do not cause sun sensitivity.
- retinoids – although they are not for everyone, these derivatives of vitamin A effectively treat textural changes (wrinkles and fine lines) and brighten sun spots. Cause sun sensitivity.
- acids – AHA, BHA, and other acids when used carefully brighten the skin and reduce the visibility of hyperpigmentation. Cause sun sensitivity.
- vitamin C – products with vitamin C are known for their effect on brightening the skin. Causes sun sensitivity.
However, the best way for prevention is precisely the regular and thorough use of a protective factor. A high SPF (factor 30-50) will reduce the appearance of new ones, but also prevent the development and spread of current hyperpigmentation. This is precisely why we will say that the best anti-hyperpigmentation cream is the one with a protective factor. Checked and proven.