Summer might be one of the best seasons for your mental health because it’s all about vacations and getting out in nature, but the summer elements can wreak havoc on your skin. There’s nothing wrong with sun spots on your skin that can occur during the summer, but some people don’t want them for aesthetic reasons. Here’s what to know about the dark spots that form when you’re out in the sun and what products are dermatologist recommended for dark spots.
What Are Sun Spots?
Sun spots are also called liver spots, even though there’s no correlation between the liver and the spots on your body. Sun spots show up in the summer when your skin is exposed to the sun. Most people don’t start getting sun spots until around age 40, but they can occur earlier in life. Sun spots are noncancerous, but if one starts to grow quickly or changes in appearance, it should be checked out by a doctor.
The Role of Sun Exposure
Most dark spots on the skin occur because the skin produces melanin, which is the natural pigment that gives skin its color. When the skin is exposed to the sun, more melanin is produced to protect the skin from the sun’s UV rays. This is the reason fair-colored skin burns more easily than darker skin. When melanin production is uneven, it causes dark spots in the skin. These dark spots usually occur on your face and hands but can occur on any skin that is exposed to the sun. Many serums, such as 14 azelaic acid, pair well with an SPF cream to soothe your skin and reduce discoloration.
It Starts With Prevention
The key to avoiding dark spots on the skin is to protect your skin. Some dermatologists recommend staying out of direct sunlight during the day’s hottest hours, from 10 am to 4 pm. If you do go outside, wear SPF and dress in protective clothing, like clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), sunglasses, and sun hats. When you are outside, keep the skin cool by staying in the shade or cooling off in the pool. Heat can also stimulate melanin production, leading to dark spots. Just staying out of the direct sun may not be enough to prevent dark spots.
Dermatologist Recommended Products
Sun spots don’t necessarily mean that your skin is sun damaged. But if you don’t like the appearance of those dark spots on your skin, there are some things you can do to reduce the discoloration. Eat foods that have vitamins and minerals that protect the skin, such as kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Vitamin C, beta carotene, and other antioxidants help your skin protect against damage. Using an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and to promote the growth of new cells will help fade the discoloration. Add a serum to your daily routine such as a Vitamin C cream for face health, to help your skin combat the damage done by the sun.
Conclusion
The appearance of dark spots on the skin during the summer can be concerning for many individuals. While sun spots are generally harmless, they can have aesthetic implications. It is important to understand how sun exposure and melanin production contribute to the formation of these spots.
Prevention is the first line of defense against dark spots. Stay out of direct sunlight during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and use SPF creams to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Additionally, incorporating foods rich in vitamins and minerals can provide your skin with the necessary nutrients to protect against damage.
If you are bothered by the appearance of dark spots, there are dermatologist-recommended products that may help. Exfoliants can promote cell turnover, fading the discoloration over time. Serums containing Vitamin C have been shown to aid in repairing sun damage and improving overall skin health.
Remember, dark spots do not indicate sun damage, and it is crucial to seek medical advice if a spot starts to change in size, shape, or color. Embrace the summer sun while taking appropriate measures to protect your skin, and don’t be afraid to explore the available options to maintain healthy, even-toned skin.
