We’re not talking a smattering of freckles, but bigger, uneven brown patches on the face, hands, décolletage and shoulder areas. Genetics, age and hormones all play varying roles in bringing it on, but the number-one trigger for all forms of the condition is sun exposurespecifically UVA rays which penetrate deep into the skin. 

The Science Bit

Theskin uses sunlight to help manufacture vitamin D, which is important for normal bone formation. Within the skin's epidermal (outer) layer are cellscalled Melanocytes that manufacture the pigment called Melanin. Melanin protects skin from the sun's UV rays,which can burn the skin, and over time reduces elasticity and premature aging. 

Sun tanning occurs when exposure to sunlight causes the skin to produce more melanin, your skin’s natural sunscreen and darkens the skin. But when melanin kicks into overdrive or develops unevenly, you can end up with anything from irregular skin tone, a few brown spots to unwanted dark patches that resemble a full-on face mask. 

These sun spots may take up to 10-20 years to develop, unwelcome souvenirs of summer holidays past. So if you notice some showing up now it could have been caused when you were a child. Their appearance is a warning sign that your sun quota has reached its limit; the numbers of melanin-producing cells are decreasing and yourskin can no longer properly defend itself from the harmful effects of UV rays. Even when it’s overcast, there’s enough UV light to stimulate melanin production so it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen every day.

Go On the Defensive

Sun protection is the most significant step you can take in helping to prevent it in the first place. Give your skin the daily protection it needs, make sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your daily skin routine. Apply it every morning, rain or shine, and choose a high protection SPF30, SPF50+ Here at the Marlow Beauty Lounge we highly recommend the SUN series from JANSSEN COSMETICS its light protection filters offer highly-effective protection against UVB and UVA radiation preventing the formation of additional sun-induced pigment spots. With its unique biological active substance ECTOIN® it increases the cell's native defences against UV radiation and loss of moisture..

Limit your skin’s exposure to the sun; try to keep out of the sun during its most intense hours. When skin is exposed to the sun, apply and regularly reapply a high protection sun product.

Lighten and Brighten

True sunspots are harmless and noncancerous but can be treated for cosmetic purposes. Search on any internet browser and a plethora of videos, advice and products will pop up, from at-home natural remedies, skincare products to professional dermatological treatments such as chemical peels and laser that can help remove or lessen the appearance of the dark patches. When in doubt, consult your doctor to determine what kind of hyper pigmentation you have and the best way to treat it. 

Talk to an Expert

If you have sunspots concerns, book a free consultation. One of the team will talk through your concerns, analyse your skin and recommend treatment options, such as 

Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion: a natural and safe controlled method of exfoliating the outer layers of skin. 

Crystal Clear COMCIT: the 7 in 1 facial, that not only stimulates collagen but reduces fine lines, scarring and pigmentation. 

SF HIFU Skin tightening: the latest in ultrasound technology that heats the tissues below the deep layers of the skin, causing it to contract. Lift and tighten, reduce fine lines and improve the overall health and vitality of the skin.

As the summer holiday period fast approaches and you dream of tanned, smooth glowing skin, just remember: Sun Protection, Sun Protection, Sun Protection and if you notice any spots on your skin that are dark or change in appearance, don’t hesitate get them seen by your doctor.