Summer is synonymous with sun, sea and relaxation, but what if all this were to be cancelled out due to the appearance of sun spots on the face ? Prevention is certainly the key to maintaining healthy skin and free of sun spots, but if these are already present, how can we intervene after the summer? Continue reading to discover our cosmetics that can lighten them and take you back to your holiday among the lemon groves of theland of the Sirens .
Types of sunspots
Sunspots on the face can appear in different forms and intensities. In fact, not all are the same and for some, the appearance can vary based on factors such as age, skin type and the degree of exposure to the sun.
1. Solar Freckles
Solar lentigines , or freckles, are small dark spots that form on the skin due to sun exposure. Unlike common freckles, which are present from childhood and tend to be hereditary, solar lentigines develop mainly in adulthood, especially following repeated and unprotected sun exposure. They are generally darker and more numerous than hereditary lentigines and tend to be concentrated on the areas most exposed to the sun, such as the face, shoulders and arms.
The main characteristics of these facial sunspots are:
▪️ Size: Small, usually a few millimeters.
▪️ Color: Light to dark brown.
▪️ Causes: Prolonged and cumulative sun exposure.
2. Melasma
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that manifests itself as dark spots of varying sizes on the face. Although it is not exclusively caused by sun exposure, UV rays can worsen this condition. This category includes sun spots on the face typical of pregnancy , menopause or those that appear with the use of oral contraceptives due to hormonal changes.
The main characteristics of these facial sunspots are:
▪️ Size: Medium to large, often with irregular edges.
▪️ Color: Light or dark brown, sometimes grayish.
▪️ Causes: Sun exposure, hormonal changes.
3. Solar Lentigo
Solar lentigo are irregularly shaped dark spots that develop as a result of chronic exposure to UV rays. Unlike solar lentigines, solar lentigo are larger and darker and tend not to fade during the winter months. They are more common in older people and are often considered a sign of photoaging of the skin . They may appear not only on the face, but also on other areas exposed to the sun, such as the hands, décolleté, and forearms.
The main characteristics of these facial sunspots are:
▪️ Size: Small to medium, with defined edges.
▪️ Color: Dark Brown.
▪️ Causes: Chronic sun exposure.
4. Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis is a precancerous lesion that appears as a rough, scaly, or crusty patch on the skin. It is caused by accumulated UV damage over time and is considered a condition that can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
5. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is not a sunspot in the strict sense, but it can be triggered or worsened by sun exposure. This condition occurs when an inflammation of the skin, such as irritation, trauma, or a rash, leaves a dark spot on the skin that can be worsened by the sun's rays.
Causes of sun spots on the face
Sunspots on the face are often associated with skin aging, but in reality several factors can contribute to their appearance, making some people more predisposed than others. Understanding the causes is essential to prevent and treat them effectively. Here are the main ones:
▪️ Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays: the main cause of sunspots on the face is definitely prolonged exposure to the sun. In fact, UV rays are able to penetrate the skin and stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin. When the skin is exposed to the sun excessively, the production of melanin can become irregular, leading to the formation of spots.
▪️ Skin phototype : A person's skin type plays a significant role in the formation of sunspots. People with light skin (phototype I and II) are more vulnerable to sun damage because they produce less melanin than those with darker skin (phototype III and IV).
▪️ Skin aging : As we age, our skin has a lower capacity to regenerate and repair damage caused by UV rays. In addition, melanin production becomes less regulated, leading to uneven distribution of pigment and the formation of dark spots.
▪️ Hormonal changes : Hormones can affect the production of melanin and predispose the skin to the formation of sunspots, particularly melasma.
▪️ Inadequate use of sunscreen : Another crucial factor in the formation of sunspots on the face is the inadequate use or lack of sunscreen.
How to fix sunspots after summer?
After a summer of sun and sea, sun spots can appear on the face as an unwanted reminder of the season. Fortunately, there are several methods to reduce and lighten these blemishes, giving the skin an even and luminous appearance.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies can be a gentle option for treating sun spots on the face , but it takes a long time to show any improvements. This method uses the properties of easily available ingredients to lighten discolorations and improve skin texture such as:
▪️ Lemon Juice - Lemon juice is known for its skin-brightening properties thanks to the citric acid that acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell regeneration.
▪️ Aloe Vera: It is known for its soothing and regenerating properties. Pure aloe vera gel can be applied directly to sun spots to promote cell renewal and gradually lighten spots while hydrating the skin.
▪️ Rosehip Oil: it is particularly rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin A, known for their regenerating properties.
▪️ Honey and Yogurt: A natural mask made with honey and yogurt can help moisturize the skin and reduce sun spots. Honey has anti-inflammatory properties, while the lactic acid present in yogurt promotes gentle exfoliation.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation is a crucial step in treating sunspots on the face , as it helps remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell renewal. There are different types of exfoliation, but the one we recommend is enzymatic exfoliation.
In fact, this is a cosmetic treatment that consists of the application of a product based on natural enzymes, which have the function of exfoliating the skin in a delicate and non-aggressive way. Some of the enzymes used are those contained in fruit, such as papain, bromelain, ficolin or lemon as in the case of our innovative LemonLight®.
Enzyme peeling is particularly suitable for people with sensitive skin such as pregnant skin or skin with dermatitis because it does not use aggressive chemical acids (chemical exfoliation) or abrasive particles (mechanical exfoliation).
Brightening Cosmetics
Lightening cosmetics are formulated specifically to reduce the appearance of sun spots on the face and even out skin tone. These products contain active ingredients that lighten spots and/or speed up cell turnover. The main ingredients to look for are:
▪️ Vitamin C : Helps fight the formation of melanin, thus reducing the appearance of dark spots and improving skin tone. It is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
▪️ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): It is known for its anti-inflammatory and lightening properties. It helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and improves skin texture. In addition, this ingredient is also suitable for the skincare of sensitive skin such as psychosomatic dermatitis .
In the case of our Luce di Sorrento cosmetics, the lightening and exfoliating action of Lemon is contained in 3 powerful and innovative complexes:
▪️ LemonLux® : a precious elixir based on Sorrento Lemon Essential Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil from the Sorrento Peninsula that reactivates cell renewal and regenerates the skin in depth, naturally illuminating it and lightening facial blemishes.
▪️ LemonLight® : an ingredient with important hydrating and exfoliating properties, extracted from the peel of Sorrento lemons with natural enzymes.
▪️ Light-C® Liposomes: to renew, revitalize, regenerate and even out the complexion for perfect radiance.
Sunspots on the face: prevention is better than cure
When it comes to sunspots on the face , prevention is the most effective strategy to maintain even and luminous skin over time. In fact, preventing the formation of sunspots is much easier than treating them once they have appeared. So here are our 6 tips to protect your skin:
1. Use sunscreen every day
Sunscreen is your first line of defense against sunspots. UV rays are present year-round, not just during the summer, and can damage your skin even on cloudy days or when you're indoors near windows. For this reason, it's essential to wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least SPF30 every day, regardless of the weather or activity.
2. Avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours
Limiting sun exposure during the hours when UV rays are strongest (between 10am and 4pm) helps prevent sunspots.
3. Adopt a diet rich in antioxidants
A diet rich in antioxidants can help protect your skin from sun damage from the inside out. They fight free radicals produced by UV exposure, reducing the risk of cell damage that can lead to sun spots on your face .
4. Avoid using perfumes under the sun
Some perfumes contain photosensitizing ingredients that can increase the risk of sunspots if used before sun exposure.
5. Adopt an anti-blemish skincare
Taking care of your skin every day withcosmetics that can lighten blemishes , even out and illuminate the complexion guarantees healthy and luminous facial skin.
Luce di Sorrento neurocosmetics are able to prevent the onset of new facial blemishes and improve existing ones thanks to the double action of Sorrento Lemon essential oil which gives brightness to the skin and guarantees a relaxing effect on the mind.
Our list of cosmetics that cannot be missing from your anti-blemish skincare for the face are:
▪️ The CLEANSING LUX GEL facial cleanser that soothes and brightens the skin, suitable for the face and eyes even for sensitive and reactive skin.
▪️ The PRESTIGE LUX FACE MASK mask should be used as a night face mask twice a week, spread it with a brush until completely absorbed.
▪️ SUBLIME LUX ESSENCE LOTION is an incredible essence with an intense refreshing, illuminating, hydrating and brightening action with an intense lemon scent.
▪️ The PERFECTION LUX SERUM facial serum with a firming, super hydrating and illuminating effect for dull, grey skin, lightening and evening out blemishes on the face.
▪️ The GLOBAL LUX CREAM + PREMIUM LUX OIL face cream is a winning combination for immediate skin brightness and thanks to the presence of 5 biomimetic peptides with an intense anti-aging action.
Sunspots on the face are one of the most common consequences of sun exposure after the summer. However, with proper prevention and the daily use of a brightening and illuminating skincare, you can keep your skin even and luminous.
We are waiting for you in the e-commerce and in our single-brand store in Sorrento in Via Luigi De Maio, 10 to try a unique Skincare for both the skin and the mind thanks to the presence of the Sorrento PGI Lemon Essential Oil.
Dermatologically tested on sensitive skin
