Solar Lentigines: The Dark Side of Sun Exposure

Effect of the sun on the skin 

You are exposed to the sun almost daily whenever you step outdoors during the day. The benefits of sun exposure are certainly fewer than its side effects. Sunlight contains harmful rays, known as ultraviolet (UV) rays, that can damage the skin cells.

UV rays and skin damage

UV rays are invisible rays of the sun with a high penetrative capacity. As a result, they can enter the skin and its deeper layers to cause damage to the underlying blood vessels and nerves.

However, a vital pigment in the skin’s outermost layer, melanin, defends the skin against harmful UV rays. Thus, it significantly reduces the chances of damage to the skin cells and the risk of skin cancer. It is naturally triggered by sun exposure. But prolonged exposure can cause an uneven increase in melanin production, which gives rise to hyperpigmentation – irregular skin pigmentation. One sign of hyperpigmentation is solar lentigines or age spots, which manifest as darker patches on the skin.

Symptoms of moderate sun exposure:

1. Itching
2. Redness
3. Pain
4. Blisters

Symptoms of excessive sun exposure:

1. Changes in the skin (developing freckles, solar lentigines, and moles)
2. Skin ageing
3. Low immunity

Many of us are at an equal risk of developing skin cancer, irrespective of age and skin colour. However, how long you’re exposed to sunlight can create a difference. Follow effective sun protection methods to reduce photodamage, hyperpigmentation and the harmful after-effects of sun exposure. Additionally, you also need a holistic solution to see visible results in hyperpigmentation.

5 steps to manage sun-damaged skin

1. Wear a layer of protection from the sun

Sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) that indicates the level of protection it provides against the sun– the higher the number, the better its effect. You must reapply sunscreen every three to four hours. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with SPF 30 and above that protects against a broad spectrum of rays. Apply it at least half an hour before heading outdoors. Use it on all exposed skin, including hands, ears, back, shoulders, face and feet.
Wearing protective clothes, like long sleeves and long skirts, can reduce direct skin exposure to the sun.
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2. Choose a high-science holistic solution

Experts recommend using a clinically-proven formulation to help treat the root causes of hyperpigmentation.
The combination of niacinamide, 4-hexylresorcinol and retinyl propionate is a revolutionary formulation that works on deeper skin layers to reduce all the root causes. It is clinically proven to reduce hyperpigmentation and the appearance of blemishes and age spots in 4 weeks. Unlike other skincare products, it does not damage your skin barrier in the long run. Furthermore, in 8 weeks, this high-science formulation can also deliver an even skin tone. Moreover, it can prevent the onset of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin– the most common signs of ageing brought about by sun damage.

3. Avoid outdoor activities in the afternoon

The sun is usually at its highest point in the afternoon. UV rays from the sun are at their closest and harshest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. However, the potential for getting sunburned is present even at 5 p.m. Therefore, avoid going out from morning till at least early evening. If you absolutely must be out during this time, wear a broad-spectrum SPF, long-sleeved clothing, and sunglasses proven to block out 99% of UVA and UVB rays. Seek shade whenever you can.

4. Drink plenty of water

Dermatologists have always emphasised the importance of drinking an adequate amount of water daily to flush out the toxins from the skin and keep it youthful. Apart from drinking water, keeping the skin moist and hydrated is equally essential. Moisturising plays a vital role in retaining the moisture in the skin.

5. Eat right to beat skin damage

Nutrition plays a significant role in protecting your skin from sun damage and preventing further damage.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and food rich in healthy fats provide essential antioxidants that offer UV protection, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and moisturise your skin. Foods like papaya, berries, sunflower oil and soybean are high in linoleic acid, lycopene, polyphenols and flavonols, which repair and nourish the skin from within.


Using sunscreen and eating nutrient-rich food are essential to avoid sun damage. But, you also need a high-science solution tailored to tackle hyperpigmentation effectively. Experts recommend a technologically driven blend of niacinamide, hexylresorcinol and retinol propionate that prevents wrinkles and reduces hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure.
For healthy and revitalised skin
No solo ingredient can protect your skin entirely from the sun’s UV rays. Choosing complete ingredients and advanced formulations for your specific skin type is crucial for maintaining your skin’s health. The triple combination of VB3+HR+RPC is the perfect solution for your pigmentation-related problems, as this distinct blend has been backed by experts to reduce hyperpigmentation in 4 weeks. These ingredients in this formulation work in synergy to reduce all root causes of hyperpigmentation by soothing irritation, controlling melanin production and promoting cell turnover. Thus, this high-science formula effectively reduces stubborn dark/age spots and skin discolouration caused by sun exposure and several other skin conditions.