How To Choose A Sunscreen For People With Age Spots
Sunlight can cause age spots and hyperpigmentation. Too much exposure to the sun can worsen age spots and pigmentation, not mention causing wrinkles. The absorption of excessive ultraviolet rays is a factor. Vitamin D production is provoked by ultraviolet rays but too many ultraviolet rays cause skin damage and aging.
Through the use of sunscreen, the damage that the sun can bring to the skin could be reduced. The function of sunscreen is either to prevent or absorb the UV rays from the sun. The UVA and UVB are the two main kinds of ultraviolet rays that sunscreens deter. UVA is responsible for cell mutation, thus melanoma, while UVB destroys the skin resulting in sunburn. The problem with some sunscreens is the fact that most do not absorb UVA which is more harmful than UVB, and UVB is blocked by some sunscreens. So, when it comes to applying sunscreens to avoid or lessen age spots and pigmentation, how are you going to choose the best type of sunscreen for you?
You have to recognize what type of skin you have first. There are 6 skin types according to Fitzpatrick (1975).
Type I (1-5 von Luschan scale) very light (celtic/Nordic)
Type II (6-10 von Luschan scale) light
Type III (11-15 von Luschan scale) light intermediate, dark skinned European
Type IV (16-21 von Luschan scale) dark intermediate, Mediterranean
Type V (22-28 von Luschan scale) dark/ brown type
Type IV (29-36 von Luschan scale) very dark/black
Also remember the activities you engage in while wearing sunscreen. This way, you can be prepared and purchase a sunscreen that will fit your needs. But before buying check on its SPF or sun protection factor. The higher the SPF, the better the protection it gives to the user. The typical SPF measurement is up to 50. Check the label for these ingredients to make sure that the sunscreen will provide effective protection for you: avobenzone, ecamsule or zinc oxide.
Sunscreens also come in many forms, be it gel, lotion or creams. Most whitening lotions have SPF, so they qualify in the sunscreen category. But sunscreens are more effective than whitening lotion. Total these things up and you’re sure to get the best sunscreen for you.
Also remember, sunscreens are not the cure for age spots and pigmentation. The only thing that sunscreens can offer to people with age spots or hyperpigmentation is preventing it from getting worse. Only a dermatologist can help you with eradicate all age spots or lightening pigmented skin.
