How To Avoid Summer Sun Spots

Protect your skin from UV damage

Melanin is skin’s natural shield designed to protect cells from damage and UV is its prime trigger. The more UV exposure skin receives, the more melanin it produces. Over time, melanin may concentrate into sunspots, freckles and patchy discoloration. Don’t let summer leave its mark on your skin. Take steps to protect skin from UV damage and keep skin tone even and spot free.

 

Use The Right Sunscreen

We can’t stress enough the importance of sunscreen. But not just any sunscreen. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are hands down the most effective ingredients. And don’t pay more for high SPF. Anything above 30 SPF provides only fractional additional protection.

 

Limit UV Exposure

Even sunscreen can’t eliminate 100% of the sun’s UV radiation. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest. Get under an umbrella. Wear UV protective clothing. Wear a hat. Go to a matinee.

 

Eat An Antioxidant Diet

Antioxidant flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds in foods protect skin from the inside out. These potent free radical fighters help to reduce UV-induced damage and stimulate cell repair. They’re found in a variety of tasty fruits, vegetables, grains, teas, and soy products.

 

Protect Topically With Vitamins C & E

Vitamins C and E are tyrosinase inhibitors, which disrupt the synthesis of melanin to reduce excess pigmentation. They also are powerful antioxidants with strong photoprotective properties. Pure C + E combines the two to create a powerful shield against the harmful UV radiation and free radical assault that can bring on dark spots and discoloration.  

 

Introduce Your Skin To Aloe

Aloe contains a compound called aloesin, which inhibits the enzyme responsible for melanin production. Also, cinnamonic acid in aloe is a gentle exfoliator to clear away dead cells and bring fresh new skin to the surface. For photo-protective repair and prevention, try Totaloe™ Calming and Hydrating Gel with whole leaf aloe barbadensis leaf juice. Healer, hydrator and brightener in one.

 

Promote Cell Turnover

Retinoids (vitamin As) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) stimulate cell turnover from the deeper levels of the skin to bring fresh, new cells to the surface and reveal a smooth, even tone. To keep your tone under control, make gentle exfoliation part of your daily routine with Derm-A-Gel, one of Vivant's vitamin A serums, or a multi-functioning serum like or 8% Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Serum (AHA).