How to Prevent the Appearance of Sun Spots


Sun spots are not the same as age spots. While age spots, also known as liver spots, appear on your skin as you age, sun spots actually appear after over exposure to the sun. Sun spots are the result of an increase in the skin pigment called melanin due to UV exposure. These melanocytes concentrate pigmentation on certain spots rather than a uniform spread across the surface of your skin.
The most common way to avoid getting sun spots is to wear sunscreen every day. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher, and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours. However, sometimes this method is not enough depending on how long you’re going to be outside, or your skin type. Here are three other ways to prevent the appearance of sun spots:
1. Limit Sun Exposure – This is the most effective way to not only prevent sun spots on your skin but any form of sun damage. It doesn’t matter if it’s sunny or even cloudy, the idea is to avoid being outdoors in the sun as much as you can. If you do have to be outdoors, try to seek shade as much as possible to avoid being in the direct view of the sun.
2. Wear Proper Protective Clothing – If you do have to be out in the sun, make sure that your face and body are properly protected from UV rays. This includes wearing clothes that not only cover up body parts that tend to be more exposed to the sun like your arms or the back of your neck, but also eye protection by using sunglasses. Find a balance of being covered up while outside and feeling fresh at the same time by selecting light and breathable fabrics. Hats are also a necessary to protect the top of your head and to provide shade for your facial area.
3. Skin Treatments – So you found a couple of sun spots on your face. What do you do? Not getting them treated may lead in the worsening of their appearance over time. The best way to treat sun spots is to visit your dermatologist for skin treatments. Your This may include skin peels, exfoliation, laser treatments, microdermabrasions and skin bleaching treatments. It might include a combination of two or more treatments to get the best results.