“If you use products with a high SPF, can you be sure that age spots will not appear? Is there a real way to prevent age spots? If so, how does it work?"
Reader marieclaire.ru, 31
Expert's answer:
First of all, it is important to determine the main cause of hyperpigmentation. Among the factors causing it are internal and external. The first group includes somatic diseases (for example, from the gastrointestinal tract, endocrine and reproductive systems), special periods of life (pregnancy, lactation, menopause), taking a number of medications. In this case, adequate therapy and correction is required. External factors are improper home care, aggressive cosmetic procedures out of season, sun and solarium. In this case, an excellent way of prevention is the use of photoprotective agents.
If age spots are caused by sun exposure, you can be proactive and prevent them. Sunlight is made up of several types of rays. For us, shortwave UVB and longwave UVA are of the greatest importance. They are the main "culprits" of enhancing the work of melanocytes in the production of melanin pigment.
Our goal is to provide protection against both types. The abbreviation SPF stands for protection against type B rays only, while UV in a circle or PPD stands for protection against A-rays. The degree of protection required depends on the skin phototype and UV index. When applying a modern photoprotective preparation to the skin, you not only prevent the appearance / increase of pigmentation, but also provide the skin with protection against photoaging, burns, increased rosacea and hypersensitivity. Sunscreens contain safe chemical and physical filters that absorb solar energy and reflect it off the skin's surface. The modern trend is an even, beautiful and safe tan.
To get rid of the pigment spots that have already appeared, first of all, you need to determine and eliminate the cause of pigmentation: assess the general condition of the body, lifestyle, carefully "research" home care and exclude all possible provocateurs. In the evening, it is recommended to use whitening preparations (in the form of serums, creams and masks), in the afternoon - photoprotection. If home therapy is ineffective, medical cosmetology should be connected: chemical peelings, mesotherapy and biorevitalization, photo and laser treatment of pigment.
About the expert:
Ksenia Alexandrovna Samodelkina
Photo: Getty Images
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