Summer vacations are in full swing, which means that we are going to spend a lot of time in the sun. Keeping your skin safe from harmful rays is the best you can do, however, this time we are going to talk about ways how you can fix sun-damaged skin if you happen to experience the signs.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is a process which helps us remove the layer of dead cells from our skin. You might have accumulated brown pigment and exfoliation will help you get rid of it, and it will leave your skin looking fresh, bright and smooth. You can do this at home with granulated scrubs. The best way is to apply it and massage in circular motions because that way, you improve blood circulation as well. Exfoliating scrubs can even be homemade, and the most popular one is sugar scrub. Besides scrubs, you can use chemical exfoliants, which gently remove dead cells and are suitable for more sensitive skin.

Lighten brown spots

An effective method you can also try is bleaching or lightening your skin. Don’t worry, no bleach is used, the treatment is rather soft and it only helps you get rid of built-up melanin in your skin. You can use different creams, gels and serums to treat brown spots, just keep an eye on the ingredients. Some of the most commonly used are glycolic acid, kojic acid, lactic and alpha hydroxy acid. These will help make the brown spots less visible over time by lightening them in a safe way. So before going to your dermatologist and trying some other treatments, try the non-invasive ones first.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a process where very small needles are used to puncture your skin. Your body sees this as wounds and it immediately starts to heal them. The cells called fibroblasts travel to the wounded place, turn into collagen, which helps smooth fine lines and gives back plumpness to your skin. Brown spots can also be treated with micro needling. After a while, they disappear completely, and you are left with healthy, spotless skin underneath. This is a method you should only do with a professional, so make sure you do your research beforehand.

Laser

Another popular method that many people opt for is laser treatment. Lasers use light energy and turn it into heat and then penetrate your skin, removing hyperpigmentation and stimulating the production of collagen. Hyperpigmentation demands usually a few treatments, and you only experience redness for a few days after it. Dermatologists recommend using natural makeup and products during those days to avoid clogging your pores. Also, don’t expose your face to the sun until it’s healed.

Prevention – sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure

This one is not a treatment method, rather a preventative one. Hyperpigmentation and sun-damaged skin happen after years of exposure, so you should think about it on time. Using SPF creams before going out in the sun is a must. Apply it half an hour before, so your skin can soak it all in, and it will keep your skin safe for at least a few hours. After that, reapply. You should use sunblock wherever you go, not just when you are sunbathing. And don’t worry, these creams will not stop you from getting a tan. Another good advice is to cover your skin with light breathable clothes and wear hats to protect your face.

Although prevention is the best medicine, at times sun-damaged skin can happen. You should try with non-invasive treatments first, then move to more complex ones and you will be able to get healthy and glowy skin.