Traditionally, it was believed that sun spots, also referred to as age spots, only affected older people who had been exposed to the sun for prolonged periods of time throughout the years. Now research is showing that they are affecting people of all ethnic groupings at a much younger age.
New research shows sun spots are mainly a result of how much time you have spent out in the sun. The term ‘age spots’ refers to the brownish spots that, over time appear on your face and body as a result of overexposure to the sun. Our skin has what is called ‘melanin pigment’ which absorbs sunlight and helps naturally protect our skin from UV rays. However as we age, our skin’s natural ability to fend off UV rays from the sun begins to deteriorate, and as a result, we see the development of sun spots.
The appearance of sun spots can be helped from the inside out quite easily.
Stay out of strong sunlight as much as possible, and always wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 20. Remember that mineral based ones protect the skin instantly whereas others take up to 30 minutes to get working. Even if you already have sun damaged skin, it’s never too late to start. This will help prevent further damage and sun spotting.
Nourish your skin with creams and oils containing omega 3, rosehip seed oil and vitamins A and E and always apply a sunscreen on top.
Eat foods which are rich in omega 3 oils and eat plenty of antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruit.
Sun damage can even occur while you are in your car. Car window glass protects from 100% of the UVA light (the light which causes a burn) but none of the UVB, the light responsible for sun damage and aging skin. Always remember to apply sun protection or invest in getting UVB-protecting film on your car windows (this may be tinted or clear). This will help prevent much of the sun damage which causes sun, liver, or brown spots.
When you think of good skin care, what springs mind? Daily cleansing and moisturising? A good diet? Regular exercise? Did you know that one of the best beauty treatments we can give ourselves is free….a good night’s sleep!
Going to sleep earlier can help the body repair the daily damage caused to the skin by stress, ultraviolet rays and other detrimental exposures to dust and pollution. Sleep is when the body produces more proteins, which are the cell’s building blocks. Enhanced protein production ensures proper rejuvenation and revamping of the tissues and cells, which in turn provides vital regeneration and repair to the skin.
The modern multi-tasking woman tends to burn the candle at both ends and in the middle in the never ending quest to achieve more. But this can be rewarded with dark under-eye circles, puffy bloodshot eyes, crows feet and sallow skin. So before you splurge on the latest skin repair and anti-aging products, you may want to try getting a bit more sleep first!
This also explains the origins of the term ‘beauty sleep’. The ill-effects of inadequate sleep show up almost immediately in our looks. Models, actors and those whose face is their fortune unanimously agree on the absolute necessity of a good night’s sleep.
Extensive research over many years has shown even a couple of days of inadequate sleep are enough to decrease concentration, reduce mental and physical alertness and cause irritability. In addition to this, studies connect sleep with gaining weight; sleep less and the release of important appetite-regulating hormones can get disrupted, which may cause weight gain.
From now on, make getting a good night’s sleep an integral part of your beauty regime. This may sound like a tall order, but the long term holistic benefits will see your efforts well rewarded.
As we start to put away our summer clothes and get the winter warmers out, let’s not forget to prepare our skin for the autumn winds as well.
At this time of year our skin will retain a lot less moisture because of the cooler, drier air. Our skin is also being sapped of moisture indoors as the central heating goes on for prolonged periods of time. Key symptoms of “autumn skin” include dryness, fine lines, dull and sallow skin tone, sun and age spots. Some minor adjustments in our skincare routine can help keep our skin looking as fresh and vibrant as it did in the summer.
Exfoliate the face and body with a gentle scrub to prevent the build up of dead cells which gives our skin that dull, lifeless look. For your face, try AD skin synergy’s Essential Cleansing Balm along with the muslin face cloth. This will gently give your skin a thorough cleansing which will keep your complexion radiant.
With all the elements that will dry out our skin, using a good moisturiser and drinking lots of water are vital to keep it hydrated. Both the Radiant Skin Moisturiser and the Nourishing Night Treatment facial oil are excellent at keeping the skin nourished and well moisturised. These are great to use on your body too.
Also if you can, try and have a steam sauna. Steaming your skin is a highly effective way of helping to keep your skin healthy. Amongst other benefits, this is a great way to improve your blood circulation, enhance detoxification processes and deep clean and rejuvenate your skin.