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A Guide to Melasma
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As we continue to learn more about the ways in which our lifestyle, diet and certain environmental factors can impact our overall health and wellbeing, it’s somewhat surprising that many of us still overlook our bodies largest organ, our skin.
Our skin plays a vital role in insulating us and protecting us, so ensuring it is in turn protected and well cared for is so important.
UV LIGHT
Exposure to sunlight is beneficial in many ways. Sunshine and fresh air can do wonders for our mental health! It’s also the best way of boosting the body’s vitamin D level. The major function of Vitamin D is to promote healthy bones, and a lack of vitamin D can have a number of detrimental effects on our bodies. So whilst ensuring we get enough sun exposure to boost our Vitamin D we need to be careful to protect ourselves from the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays.
MELANIN
Melanin is the natural pigment found in the epidermis (the outer layer of skin) and its job is to protect the skin from UV rays. After safe sun exposure, most people will notice an increase in melanin production, otherwise known as a tan! However, if the skin has been overexposed to the sun and not adequately protected, the skin can be burnt and skin cells can be damaged. This is why sun protection is essential.
TYPES OF SUN DAMAGE
Pigmentation/Sun spots
Sun spots (Solar Lentigo) are coloured areas of darker brown pigment.
They most commonly develop on the hands, face, neck, and chest; Generally areas of the body most exposed to sunlight. Once they are developed, sun spots can darken or become larger if sun overexposure continues.
Solar Keratosis
Solar Keratosis is a small thickened area of skin, which is often scaly and may have a white/ yellow crust. These growths are commonly found in areas of greater sun exposure, such as the face, scalp, neck, ears and hands. In the UK, it is believed that 1 in 4 people over the age of 60 have Solar Keratosis.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop due to overexposure to UV light, which has caused cell abnormalities to occur. If identified and treated early enough, melanoma can be successfully removed. However, once a person has suffered from Melanoma, its likelihood of returning is high and in some advanced cases, it can spread to other organs in the body.
Most melanomas can be identified as moles that have an irregular shape and are often made up of more than one colour. They may also change in shape, be larger than normal and can sometimes itch, bleed or crust.
If you would like more information about Melanoma, please follow the NHS article “Melanoma skin cancer – NHS“.
BEING SUN SAFE
Sunscreen application
Applying a broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily is essential, even on cloudy days!
Two great tips that we share with our patients for facial sun protection application are:
1. Quantity
Using Index and middle fingers, run a line of sunscreen down both to establish the correct amount of product to use for face and neck.
2. Application
Rather than applying sunscreen to the centre of the face and working outward over the cheeks first, consider applying it to the forehead/ temple areas and sides of the face first. These are places where sunspots and Solar Keratosis frequently appear and often the areas that we skimp on with sunscreen.
Take a look at our application video featuring Lauren, one of our laser practitioners!
Dr Tanja’s sun protection recommendation:
Heliocare 360 is the broad spectrum sun protection range that Dr Phillips and her team highly recommend. It offers protection from UVA, UVB, Visible light and Infrared A. Suitable for all skin types, Heliocare 360 prevents premature skin ageing, protects the skin and repairs skin damage.
Take a look at Heliocare 360’s 2 newest additions, both with enhanced formulas to specifically target pigmentation and skin ageing. We have all been testing these new products and are really impressed with the ease of application, consistency and most importantly their beneficial effects. Dr Tanja in particular has noticed the benefits on her skin of the pigment correcting formula in the Pigment Solution Fluid.
Pigment Solution Fluid
- SPF50 & PA++++
- Lifts pigmentation
- Helps to prevent pigmentation
- Subtle tint
- Water and sweat resistant
- Tested on sensitive skin and around sensitive eyes
- Alcohol free
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan friendly
Age Active Fluid
- SPF50 & PA++++
- Helps to prevent the signs of ageing
- Hydrating
- Subtle tint
- Water and sweat resistant
- Tested on sensitive skin and around sensitive eyes
- Alcohol free
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan friendly
Sun safety tips
Other ways that you can limit overexposure and stay sun safe are spending time in the shade between 11am and 3pm (UK) and wearing suitable clothing and sunglasses to protect the skin.
By following these 3 simple steps, we can care for our skin and make the most of the end of our beautiful summer, safely!
If you would like more information on this or have any questions please do get in touch with us on 01256 213 007 or email us at hello@tanjaphillips.com.
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