Unsightly facial splotches are caused by sun damage to healthy skin over time, reports the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Uneven skin tone, patchiness and blotches can be treated to minimize their appearance, but the damage can't be reversed. You can practice many preventive measures, however, to minimize the severity of photoaging, or the long-term effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Preventing sun splotches and maintaining healthy skin is your best bet for looking your best over the years.
Step 1
Wear sunscreen on both sunny and cloudy days, every day. Both ultraviolet A and B wavelengths can pass through clouds, and UVA rays can penetrate glass to cause sun damage. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more.
Step 2
Moisturize skin often with a hypoallergenic skin care product that won't irritate skin. According to the Skin Sciences Institute, moisturizing lotions and creams maintain an elastic barrier on the epidermal surface, protecting healthy skin from environmental damage.
Step 3
Use anti-aging skin care creams as directed. Wearing some night creams during the day can invite sun damage. The AAD notes that powerful active ingredients can cause rather than relieve facial splotches.
Step 4
Avoid tanning outdoors and by machine. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that natural or synthesized UV radiation is harmful and carcinogenic to human skin. Prefer shade to sun whenever possible.
Step 5
Wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants, UV-blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the risk for sun damage is greatest. If you must be in the sun for extended periods, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends clothing designed for ultraviolet protection.
Tips and Warnings
- Sunscreen (SPF 15) protects exposed skin from 93 percent of UV radiation, so the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends additional sun protection, such as tightly woven clothing. Specially designed UV clothing is rated by an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) system that correlates to SPF in sunscreen skin care products. UPF 25 is the minimal rating, and UPF 50 is the highest. You can find swimwear, hats and umbrellas with built-in UV blockers.
- Exposure to UVA radiation damages deep dermal tissue and may initiate cancerous cell growth in healthy skin, reports the Skin Cancer Foundation Tanning beds will not prevent facial splotches. The Nemours Foundation reports that tanning machines use the same UV radiation that the sun emits, but give off harmful UVA rays in much greater strength.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizing skin care lotion
- Protective clothing and accessories
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