How to prevent dark spots on the face caused by the sun?
Summary
If the sun is one of the main causes of brown spots , other situations can promote their appearance. But then, why do these spots appear, what are the reasons? And how to prevent the development of pigment spots?
What are brown spots and where do they come from?
The importance of the sun for our well-being
The sun is essential for the human body, especially because of its action on the synthesis of vitamin D. When our skin is exposed to UVB rays, it produces this vitamin which is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, thus contributing to the health of bones and teeth . It also helps support the immune system .
But the benefits of the sun don't stop there. Moderate exposure can also improve our mood by stimulating the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness and regulating anxiety. This is why we often feel more energetic and in a better mood after a few sunny days!
However, it is important to cultivate friendly and responsible relationships with the solar star. Like everything, it should be consumed in moderation! Yes, because exposure to UV rays leads to excessive production of melanin. Over time, brown spots can appear on the face and body...
Brown spots: what are they?
Dark spots, also known as age spots , sun spots or solar lentigo, are areas of the skin where melanin , the pigment responsible for skin color, accumulates in excess.
They usually appear as small, flat spots, light brown to dark brown in color , and appear mainly on areas most exposed to the sun, such as the face , hands, shoulders and décolleté.
What are the origins of brown spots?
Dark spots on the face can be caused by different factors:
Repeated exposure to the sun's UV rays , which is the main cause of dark spots. UV rays stimulate the production of melanin to protect the skin from damage. However, over time, this production can become unbalanced, leading to the formation of spots.
-
Hormonal changes , especially during pregnancy or due to taking contraceptives, can cause an overproduction of melanin, leading to specific pigment spots called melasma or chloasma.
Skin inflammations (wounds, acne scars, irritations or burns) can also leave brown spots on the skin.
Genetic predisposition : Some people are genetically more likely to develop dark spots.
The use of photosensitive products (cosmetics, essential oils). Their use before exposure to the sun can cause irreversible damage and mark the skin.
Aggressive cleansing methods can weaken the skin, as can exfoliating too frequently.
Sunspots according to skin color
Typically, the size and color of brown spots on the face range from light brown to black. Depending on the phenotype, i.e. skin color and tone, pigment spots can be more or less dark.
Black, dark and mixed skin is naturally more pigmented and more concentrated in melanin . So, the spots will be darker and more persistent.
For white Caucasian or Asian skin which is less concentrated in melanin, the brown spots fade more quickly.
📕 Also read: How to prepare your skin for the sun?
Are brown spots on the face dangerous?
Don't worry, brown spots are generally not dangerous and are quite common even if some people experience aesthetic discomfort. However, although they are generally harmless, it is important to remain vigilant.
Our advice: prepare your skin for the sun to enjoy its benefits while limiting the risks associated with excessive exposure.
Here's why it's important to take care of your skin before the warm weather arrives:
to reduce the risk of sunburn;
to optimize tanning;
to limit the appearance of brown spots on the face (and on the body) as well as skin aging.
We recommend you
Sun Formula
Synergy of 7 active ingredients to prepare and support your skin in the sun.
- ✅ Sublimated tan
- ✅ With natural carotenoids
- ✅ 100% clean (guaranteed without additives & without coloring)
- ✅ 1 month treatment
Preventing the appearance of brown spots: is it possible?
It is entirely possible to prevent the appearance of brown spots by taking a few precautions. But it is strongly recommended to start as early as possible to limit the effects of time and the sun on your skin.
1. Protect your skin with suitable sunscreen
Daily use of a sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) is essential to prevent the appearance of dark spots. UV rays are one of the main causes of hyperpigmentation, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously to exposed areas and reapply every two hours.
2. Adopt protective lifestyle habits
In addition to external care, your lifestyle habits play a key role in preventing brown spots. Limit direct exposure to the sun, especially during the hours when UV rays are most intense (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
Wear covering clothing , a hat and sunglasses for added protection. Also avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption, as they promote skin aging and make the skin more vulnerable to sun damage.
3. Focus on a diet rich in antioxidants
A diet rich in antioxidants helps protect the skin from UV damage. Consume antioxidant-rich vegetables such as broccoli, artichokes, cabbage, peppers, spinach, walnuts, goji berries, cranberries, grapes, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. Opt for antioxidant drinks in the summer such as mate and green tea.
To optimize your tan, you can opt for a course of food supplements based on natural carotenoids , such as our Sun Formula for example!
📕 Also read: Tanning accelerator: the ally for a perfect complexion? We tell you everything
How to reduce existing brown spots?
To reduce existing brown spots, several approaches can be implemented into your daily habits.
Skin care by favoring products based on vitamin D, retinol to stimulate collagen production and exfoliating acids to improve skin texture. A good skin care routine supports cell renewal and limits the appearance of spots, fine lines and wrinkles caused by skin aging.
-
There are also dermatological treatments such as chemical peels. Or a treatment based on cardamonin under prescription from a dermatologist.
As you will have understood, the sun is both our best friend and our worst enemy. Preserving your skin and maintaining it with care and dietary complexes helps prevent the appearance of brown spots on the face and parts of the body most exposed to the sun.
