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It is now clear to everyone that solar is the only ally to preserve the health of the skin from sun damage. Which not only gives the much desired tan, but can leave sunspots as a legacy, because his rays promote their development. Few reflect on the fact that regular use of screens is an irreplaceable tool to prevent them. “Properly formulated solar and responsible behavior are indispensable defense weapons”, explains Alessandra Vasselli, cosmetologist and member of the AIDECO (Italian Association of Dermatology and Cosmetology) board of directors.
What products to use to prevent sunspots
The sun’s rays are composed of ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB) which interfere with melanogenesis, the mechanism that leads to the synthesis of melanin (the pigment that gives color to the epidermis): they increase its production and, in the long run, favor the appearance of sunspots. «It should not be forgotten that prolonged exposure also leads to the early manifestation of the signs of aging (photoaging), initiating oxidative processes generated by the proliferation of free radicals (molecules responsible for aging) which in turn aggravate hyper-pigmentation, as well as favoring loss of elasticity and the formation of wrinkles “, says the cosmetologist.
- To face these “attacks”, the solar ones that really counteract the mechanisms that lead to the formation of sunspots must guarantee two essential things. “They must ensure broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays, And provide the epidermis with an extra dose of antioxidant agents such as, for example, vitamins C and E, amino acids and cocktails of moisturizing and nourishing agents ».
- Colored or not colored, with mineral or chemical filters or with a hybrid formula (which combines both types) the product must have an SPF ranging from 30 upwards. “This aspect should not be underestimated because lower protections can be ineffective”.
Rules for preventing sunspots
In addition to the application of a sunscreen equipped with broad spectrum filters and containing antioxidant agents, prevention also consists in putting into practice some simple attentions.
- The method of application determines the effectiveness of the sunscreen. “It should be repeated several times during the exposure, especially after the bath or involuntary removal, and without skimping on the quantity,” says Vasselli.
- Avoid exposing yourself to sunlight when they reach their maximum peak between 11 and 16.
- Use creams with a broad spectrum protective filter and formulated with anti-aging ingredients every day, even in the city therefore and not only during sunbathing.
- Even if they are already present, the sun prevents sunspots from becoming more intense in addition to preventing skin inflammation,
- Use sunglasses and hat if you take long walks by the sea, in the mountains, by the lake and in the city.
- Give preference to the consumption of foods containing flavonoids with a strong antioxidant action. Citrus fruits, berries, kiwis, avocados, tomatoes and carrots are rich in it.
- If the sunscreen does not contain antioxidants, before its application it helps to apply a vitamin C-based serum which performs this action.
How to choose the right solar system for the city too
The best sunscreens by skin type (or are you at facekini?)
Under this (record-breaking) sun we are focusing on next generation sun protection
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1/10Dermalogica
Super Sensitive Skin Spf30 is a broad spectrum, chemical-free sunscreen that minimizes the sensitivity, redness and irritation of reactive and recently exfoliated skin. Contains the exclusive UV Smart Booster Technology which combines vitamins and antioxidant agents with sunscreens plus an anti-inflammatory complex.
Cost: € 58.33
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2/10Nature’s
iSolari Solar Fluid Spray Spf50 it is a light, fresh, milky and rapidly absorbed emulsion. It guarantees broad-spectrum protection with an intensive nourishing action provided by a cocktail of phytoextracts rich in amino acids, vitamins and trace elements, plus a specific antioxidant complex based on organic fresh orange water.
Cost: € 21.99
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3/10Shiseido
Sun Care Urban Environment UV Protection Cream Plus provides full UV protection. Thanks to the exclusive Hydro-Restoring Complex, it hydrates the skin and supplies amino acids capable of interacting with free radicals, counteracting their action.
Cost: € 41.46
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4/10MDSolarSciences
Mineral Tinted Crème Spf30 is a broad spectrum protective colored fluid. Contains vitamin C, grape extracts, rosemary and green tea. With hyaluronic acid, caffeine and niacinamide which help to make fine lines and hyper-pigmentation less evident.
Cost: € 26.45
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5/10Rilastil
Age Repair Face Sun Cream Spf50 offers broad spectrum protection and thanks to a cocktail of active ingredients that protects cellular DNA from oxidative damage. It resists water and is suitable for sensitive skin.
Cost: € 17.73
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6/10Sikelia Ceutical
Radicalia Ultra Spf50 gives a high broad spectrum photo-protection. Contains the ROC complex (Red Orange Complex) a patented antioxidant mix extracted from Sicilian blood oranges.
Cost: € 17.50
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7/10Paula’s Choice
Clear Ultra Light Daily Hydrating Fluid Spf30 is a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against oxidative processes thanks to the presence of vitamin E in the formula.
Cost: € 42
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8/10Mediterranean
Sun Anti-aging Face Cream Spf50 effectively shields UV rays and counteracts skin aging.
Cost: € 24.90
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9/10La Roche Posay
Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Spf50 it has a very light consistency and creates a resistant veil with antioxidant action. Contains tocopherol, the other name for protective vitamin E.
Cost: € 16.45
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10/10ISDIN
FotoUltra Age Repair Fusion Water Spf50 is a face photoprotector for daily use that protects against urban pollution and fights oxidative damage caused by the sun. With Q10 lipo-peptide, collagen and hyaluronic acid, it improves the brightness and appearance of the skin,
Cost: € 28.72
Source: Vanity Fair
