Is Sun Damage Reversible?

 Jun 08, 2020   Skincare

Sun damage is caused due to excessive melanin (natural skin color pigment) production, which is triggered when the skin needs protection from damage caused by UV rays. Its effects are reversible, but if the concerned area is exposed without protection, it can result in hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer.

Sun damage can be classified into various degrees:

1. Melasma – Brown patches appear on the face, especially cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin caused by sun exposure, cuts, or bruises.
2. Freckles – They are small circular spots that develop in concentrated areas that are heavily exposed to the sun.
3. Age Spots – Unprotected exposure causes skin cells to weaken, causing irregular brown spots that are darker in appearance.
4. Post-Inflammatory Pigmentation (PIH) – Acne makes skin super sensitive to UV light. PIH is caused by the overproduction of melanin in reaction to skin inflammation.
5. Uneven Skin Tone or Hyperpigmentation – Due to increased oil production, an uneven skin tone appears as patches of darkened skin.

Remedies to correct sun damage include:

1. Kojic Acid Cream – Treats hyperpigmentation and minimizes the recurrence of discoloration.
2. Vitamin C Serum – Seeps in immense brightening effects, removes blemishes and fine lines to restore natural hue and healthy-looking skin. It can be applied along with an oil-free matte sunscreen to fight off the impact of free radicals.
3. Niacinamide Serum – It fades acne marks, fights acne, and controls sebum production.
4. Retinol Serum – Reverses age spots, boosts collagen, and promotes skin cell regeneration to restore smooth and even texture.

Note: Each solution has been specially formulated to treat sun damage and maintain the positive results you’ve always desired to achieve.

Tips to avoid or limit the impact of sun damage:

1. Sunscreen – Never skip sunscreen, especially during winter, as UV light is present even if the sun is not out. Use an oil-free matte sunscreen as sunlight will increase oil production, so you need to control that. Reapply after every 2 or 3 hours, depending on the intensity of the sun.
2. Hydrate – Drinking water at regular intervals when under the sun will keep your body cool and prevent inflammatory reactions.
3. Cleanse & Moisturize – Wash your face and apply cooling and oil-free moisturizer after getting away from the sun.
4. Sun Hats & White Linens – It is said that white clothes keep your body cool during summers, so dress up with a sun hat for any occasion.