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Skin damage from the sun can also occur in the fall or fall and winter because ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can penetrate through clouds, fog, and haze. Although clouds can reduce the intensity of UV radiation, they do not block it completely.
On cloudy days up to 80% of UV rays can reach the Earth’s surface. This means that even when it is cloudy or foggy, UV rays can still affect your skin, causing potential damage over time. It is important to use sun protection even when the sun is not shining directly.
Understanding Sun-Induced Pigmentation
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Akanksha Sanghvi, dermatologist and founder of Oprava Aesthetics, explains, “Sun-induced hyperpigmentation, often known as photomelanosis or sunspots or melasma, occurs when UV radiation causes excess melanin. Stimulates production, which is responsible for pigment. Skin color. This overproduction causes uneven, dark spots on the skin, usually in sun-exposed areas such as the face and hands.
He elaborates, “This condition is caused by the skin’s response to UV damage, causing melanin-producing cells to become overactive. Prolonged exposure to the sun without adequate protection can aggravate this pigmentation, making it important to use sunscreen and limit sun exposure to prevent and manage these dark spots. Hyperpigmentation is essentially a protective reaction of the skin. When UV rays penetrate the skin, they stimulate melanin production to protect the deeper layers from damage. However, this process can sometimes lead to excessive production of melanin, resulting in dark spots or patches.
prevention is important
The first line of defense against sun-induced pigmentation is prevention. Dr. Sanghvi stressed the importance of sun protection and shared, “The best way to prevent skin damage caused by the sun is to use sunscreen consistently. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 40 or higher and reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
In addition to sunscreen, Dr. Sanghvi recommends wearing protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. “These simple steps can significantly reduce your risk of developing pigmentation and other sun-related skin problems.
For individuals with severe sensitivity to sunlight and a tendency to get sunburns, Dr. Akanksha recommended a new concept of UV protective clothing. He revealed, “In the quest for better protection from the sun, UV protective clothing has emerged as a game-changer. Unlike traditional clothing, these clothes are designed with specific materials and weaves that block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from penetrating the skin. The effectiveness of these clothing is measured by the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating, which indicates how well the fabric protects against UV radiation. For example, a UPF 50 rating means that only 1/50th of the UV radiation can pass through, providing much better protection than regular clothing. As awareness of sun safety increases, incorporating UPF-rated clothing into daily wear is becoming a practical and stylish way to avoid sun risks.
Treatment of existing pigmentation
For those who already struggle with pigmentation, Dr. Sanghvi offered several treatment options. “Topical treatments containing ingredients such as arbutin, licorice extract, vitamin C and niacinamide can help lighten dark spots by inhibiting melanin production and promoting cell turnover,” she advises.
Chemical peels and laser treatments are also effective for more stubborn pigmentation. “We suggest combining chemical peels containing retinol or TCA with other hydrating ingredients and amino acids for our patients suffering from stubborn pigmentation,” said Dr. Sanghvi. By far the best treatment for treating uneven skin tone and dark spots is Q-switched laser toning. However, he cautioned that these treatments should be performed by a qualified dermatologist to ensure safety and efficacy.
Home Care Tips
Apart from professional treatments, Dr. Sanghvi suggests incorporating specific skin care routines into your daily regimen. “Gentle exfoliation using exfoliating pads/wipes containing AHAs, BHAs once a week is important to remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. However, be careful not to exfoliate too much, as this can irritate the skin and potentially worsen pigmentation.
lifestyle ideas
Dr. Sanghvi highlighted the role of overall skin health in the management of pigmentation. “A balanced diet rich in citrus fruits, orange/yellow vegetables rich in beta carotene, can aid in skin repair and reduce inflammation. Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive alcohol and smoking can also contribute to healthier, more elastic skin.
Bringing in his expertise, Ganesh Kamath, Co-Founder and CEO, Arthraga, said, “Hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of the skin produce excess melanin, which is the pigment responsible for skin color. This excess melanin results in dark spots or patches that contrast with the surrounding skin. Many factors can contribute to hyperpigmentation, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, skin inflammation, medications, and genetics.
Skin care is more than just a daily routine; It is a reflection of your inner health and well-being. Ganesh Kamath concludes, “Proper skin care helps maintain skin integrity, prevent issues and address concerns like hyperpigmentation. Taking time to care for your skin not only enhances its appearance but also contributes to your overall health. One of the most important steps in managing hyperpigmentation is to protect your skin from the sun. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF daily helps prevent existing spots from darkening and reduces the risk of new spots forming. Additionally, keeping your skin well hydrated is essential for its overall health and appearance. Keeping your skin well hydrated is essential for its overall health and appearance.
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