Sun spots are fairly common and can appear on anyone, but they are more likely to appear on fair skin or on people aged over 40. Although completely removing them is very difficult, there are things you can do to reduce their appearance or prevent them from occurring in the first place. Discover what sun spots are exactly, how to prevent them and how to reduce their appearance for more even, younger-looking skin.
- WHAT ARE SUN SPOTS?
- HOW TO PREVENT SUN SPOTS
- HOW TO REDUCE THE LOOK OF SUN SPOTS
- THE BOTTOM LINE ON HOW TO GET RID OF SUN SPOTS
WHAT ARE SUN SPOTS?
Sun spots are flat brown spots on your skin. They’re also sometimes called liver spots, though there is no connection between sun spots and the liver.
Sun spots typically appear on skin that’s had the most sun exposure, like your face, shoulders, back and hands. Sun spots tend to start appearing around the age of 40, but depending on how much sun your skin was exposed to in your life, it can be earlier or later.
While sun spots are harmless, many people want to reduce their appearance to get a more even skin tone and younger-looking skin.
If you’re unsure about a specific spot on your skin and concerned about what it may be, it’s best to visit your doctor or dermatologist for a skin checkup.
HOW TO PREVENT SUN SPOTS
Sun spots are can be the result of cummulative exposure to harmful UV rays, and these same sun rays are also responsible for up to 80 percent of the signs of premature skin ageing. With this in mind, here are some steps you can take to delay the first appearance of sun spots and other signs of premature skin ageing on your skin:
Avoid direct sunlight. Having a nice tan might seem like a good idea, but your skin will certainly not thank you. Try to avoid being out in the direct at the hottest times of the day, or seek shade under a sun umbrella or other covering to minimise your exposure to the sun.
Cover your skin. A wide-brimmed hat is a great way to give your face, ears and scalp the shade it needs.
Say Yes to SPF. It’s practically your biggest weapon to prevent sun spots. Your skin needs protection from those harmful UV rays, even on cloudy days or if you’re inside but working next to a window, for example. All skin tones are in danger of damage from UV rays, although the lighter your skin is, the faster it will show signs of damage. Using sun protection that has SPF 15 or higher is an effective way to limit the damaging effects of the sun. If you’re worried that your skin will be sticky or greasy, we have the perfect solution for you. Olay was actually the first beauty brand to sell daily facial moisturisers with SPF in them, so we’ve got your back! Try Olay Regenerist Whip Light Moisturiser With SPF30 that absorbs instantly and has an ultra-lightweight feel. It protects your skin from sun damage, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
HOW TO REDUCE THE LOOK OF SUN SPOTS
If you have sun spots whose look you would like to reduce, there are some ingredients and other remedies you can try:
Retinol. It’s a form of Vitamin A, and it’s a true multitasker so it’s no surprise that there’s a real buzz around it. Retinol can not only reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also lighten sun spots. Try Olay Retinol 24 Night Face Cream with our proprietary Retinoid Complex formula with Vitamin B3 for amazing skin benefits.
Niacinamide. It can help improve the look of skin discolouration, including sun spots. Try Olay Niacinamide with SPF 30 face cream to boost your glow and at the same time use sun protection against harmful UV rays.
THE BOTTOM LINE ON HOW TO GET RID OF SUN SPOTS
Sun spots are discolourations caused by sun exposure. The preventive measures you could take include avoiding direct sunlight and applying SPF daily—even in winter. Once sun spots have started to appear, ingredients like retinol or Niacinamide can help minimise their appearance for younger-looking skin.
However, if you start to notice any changes in the appearance of sun spots on your skin, or have any concerns, it’s best to visit your dermatologist.
Since retinol and Niacinamide have other benefits as well, they’re a perfect addition to your skin care routine. Interested in how to make people wonder what your real age is? Check out our anti-ageing skin care routine and discover how you can preserve your skin’s natural glow.
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