You may love the warmth of the sun's rays and your golden tan, but the sun is anything but good for your skin. Among the problematic symptoms of excess sun exposure include freckles and skin discolorations that make you appear older than you really are, according to MayoClinic.com.
If you have such discolorations due to sun damage, you don't have to live with your uneven complexion forever. With the right care and protection, you can improve your skin's appearance and restore some of its naturally even tone.
Step 1
Get out of the sun immediately. Sun exposure can cause new signs of damage and worsen existing discolorations. If you must go in the sun, the American Academy of Dermatology advises wearing SPF 30 sunscreen and protective clothing like sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts and a hat.
Step 2
Exfoliate your skin every morning with a skin cream or serum bolstered with alpha hydroxy acid. The University of Maryland Medical Center says regular exfoliation can undo many forms of sun damage, such as discolorations, fine lines and wrinkles. Cosmetics skincare tester Paula Begoun recommends using an AHA cream or serum with an acid concentration of at least 8 percent.
Step 3
Apply a hydroquinone-based anti-aging cream to your skin in the evening. This chemical prevents your individual skin cells from producing melanin, which is the pigment that leads to discolorations and an uneven complexion. Begoun says nothing is as effective at evening out spots and freckles as hydroquinone.
Step 4
Talk to your dermatologist about prescription-strength hydroquinone creams or in-office laser treatments if you want faster improvement to your complexion. To find a registered dermatologist, contact the American Academy of Dermatology.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen
- Exfoliating skincare product
- Hydroquinone cream
References
- "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me"; Paula Begoun; 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin Wrinkles
- American Academy of Dermatology: Protection Against Photoaging
- MayoClinic.com: Sun Damage
