Have you noticed the appearance of brown spots on your face and wondered if the sun is responsible? These marks can actually develop even on cloudy days, as UV rays penetrate clouds and glass, affecting your skin all year round. In this article, find out why these spots appear, how to prevent them effectively and what solutions exist to attenuate them.
Why does the sun give me spots?
The sun is the main culprit behind the brown spots that appear on our skin. But how exactly does it work? It all starts with UV rays penetrating our skin. In response, our body increases its production of melanin, the natural pigment that gives our skin its color. It’s a perfectly normal defense mechanism.
The problem arises when this melanin production becomes irregular. Some areas of the skin produce more melanin than others, creating those famous brown spots. And beware: this process can be devious! Spots can appear several years after overexposure to the sun.
An important point to note: UVA rays are particularly involved in the appearance of these spots. They are present all year round, even in winter, and can penetrate clouds and windows. That’s why your spots can intensify even on overcast days, or when you’re indoors near a window.
Hormones also play an important role in this process. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can increase melanin production. For this reason, some people are more susceptible than others to the appearance of spots, particularly women during pregnancy or on hormonal contraception.
But not all pigmentation spots are alike. To better understand their origin and appearance, it’s essential to distinguish between the different types of spots, starting with those commonly known as sun spots.
What is a sun spot and types of pigmentation spots
Age spots are the result of localized overproduction of melanin, the natural pigment that colors our skin. Although they can appear at any age, they are more common after the age of 40, particularly in people who regularly expose themselves to the sun without adequate protection. These brown marks, which unfortunately do not fade on their own, can fortunately be reduced with appropriate skin care.
Sun spots and solar lentigos
Solar lentigos are brown spots that appear on the areas most exposed to the sun, notably the face, shoulders and back of hands. They generally vary in size from 5 to 10 millimeters, with irregular edges. These marks particularly affect people over 50, affecting over 90% of fair-skinned people in this age bracket. Although benign, they are a sign of prolonged UV exposure and a visible sign of skin aging. To prevent them, appropriate sun protection is essential. If they are already present, there are several solutions, such as pigment laser or pulsed light, treatments that should only be carried out by a health professional.
Risk factors for sun spots
Certain factors significantly increase the risk of developing sun spots. Sunburn, particularly during childhood or adolescence, plays a decisive role in their future appearance. The face is the most vulnerable area, especially the forehead, cheeks, nose and eye area. Other frequently exposed parts of the body are also affected, such as the hands, shoulders and arms.
People working outdoors are naturally more at risk. This is the case for gardeners, farmers and construction workers. Age is also an important factor: after the age of 50, almost 90% of fair-skinned people develop these pigment spots. Atmospheric pollution can also aggravate their appearance, particularly in urban environments.
How to avoid pigmentation spots in the sun?
Prevention is your best ally against dark spots. With a few simple but effective habits, you can significantly reduce their appearance.
Sun protection is essential. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This is the basis of good protection. Remember to reapply it every two hours, even if you’re not swimming. Protection should become a reflex, just like brushing your teeth.
The hours of exposure are just as important. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun is particularly aggressive. If possible, stay in the shade during these hours. If you must go out, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
To take prevention one step further, there are a number of treatments that can help:
- Products containing vitamin C boost UV protection
- Niacinamide helps even out skin tone (often the key ingredient ina serious anti-spot cream).
- Retinoids promote cell renewal
If, despite these precautions, spots persist, laser therapy may be a solution. This technique precisely targets pigmented areas while stimulating collagen production. Talk to your dermatologist to find out if this treatment is right for you.
But how do you know whether these spots require special medical attention or can be managed at home?
When should you see a dermatologist?
Regular monitoring of your skin is essential. If you notice that a brown spot is changing its appearance, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. Here are the main signs that should alert you: an asymmetrical spot, irregular edges, an uneven color or a diameter exceeding 6 millimeters.
Certain situations also require medical advice. This is the case if your brown spots persist despite appropriate sun protection, or if they are accompanied by itching. Similarly, consult a dermatologist if you develop dark spots after applying perfume and sun exposure. A dermatologist will be able to accurately assess your situation and suggest an appropriate treatment if necessary.
