Sun spots: understand, prevent and act with nutricosmetics

Summer passes, vacation memories persist, but sometimes also small brownish spots that appear on the skin. These sun spots , also called pigment spots or brown spots , are much more than a simple aesthetic effect. They reveal a disruption in the production of melanin , often caused by exposure to UV rays . Their appearance is common, but far from inevitable. Today, thanks to a better understanding of the biological mechanisms involved and innovation in nutricosmetics, it is possible to act in depth to fight against spots , prevent them and reduce their appearance.

A sunspot (or solar lentigo) is a localized area of ​​overproduction of melanin , the natural pigment responsible for skin color. Unlike the pregnancy mask (melasma), these pigment spots are not hormonal in origin but photo-induced. They appear following prolonged or repeated exposure to the sun .

The process of appearance is simple: when faced with UV rays , the skin activates its defense mechanisms, notably by an increased production of melanin. But over time or in the event of overexposure, this response goes into overdrive, creating areas of irregular pigmentation.

Sunspots usually form on areas most exposed to the sun :

• The face (especially the cheekbones and forehead)
• The neckline
• The back of the hands
• The forearms
• The shoulders

As the skin ages, it loses its pigmentary uniformity. This is why these marks are sometimes called age spots , although they are mainly linked to cumulative sun exposure over the years.

The main cause is undoubtedly exposure to UV rays , whether natural or artificial (UV cabins). However, other aggravating factors exist:

• Light phototypes (more sensitive skin type)
• Repeated sun exposure without suitable sun protection
• Oxidative stress : excess free radicals disrupt melanogenesis
• Pollution : amplifies oxidative stress
• Chronic or repeated skin inflammation

Some people are also more prone to developing new spots due to genetic or hormonal predisposition.

Sunspots primarily affect:

• People with fair skin or sensitive skin
• Women over 40
• Individuals working outdoors or often exposed to the sun
• People who have used UV cabins regularly
• Those who do not use effective sunscreen on a daily basis

It is important to note that even outside of summer, regular sun exposure can cause spots to appear . The sun's rays act all year round, even on cloudy days.

Adopting a preventative approach is essential. Here are the essential steps:

• Apply broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreens year-round
• Reapply every 2 hours in case of prolonged exposure.
• Focus on sensitive areas (face, hands, décolleté)
• Wear a hat and sunglasses
• Integrate targeted antioxidant supplementation

This is where nutricosmetics come in, particularly formulas rich in functional active ingredients capable of regulating melanin production and supporting the skin's natural defenses against UV rays.

Once pigment spots have set in, it is possible to take action to reduce their intensity using a strategy combining topical care , nutricosmetic supplementation and sometimes dermatological treatments .

1. Topical anti-blemish treatments
   
   
   • Anti-blemish serum based on kojic acid, niacinamide, or stabilized vitamin C
   • Integrate these active ingredients into a targeted care routine , morning and evening
2. Specific oral supplementation
   
   Compounds such as lycopene , lutein , and astaxanthin have been shown, through clinical studies, to have the ability to:
   • Reduce skin oxidative stress
   • Promote even skin tone
   • Reduce photo-induced brown spots

The Biocyte laboratory, a French pioneer in nutricosmetics , has been designing nutricosmetic programs based on rigorous scientific expertise for over 17 years. Recommended by aesthetic health professionals, its products are also acclaimed by consumers (Victoire de la Beauté). Its formulas incorporate highly dosed antioxidant active ingredients , which target the underlying mechanisms of the appearance of spots .

3. Dermatological procedures (if necessary)
   
   
   • Light glycolic acid peel
   • Pigment laser
   • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

These approaches must always be supervised by a qualified professional, and supplemented by comprehensive skin care .

Sun spots are not inevitable. By combining rigorous sun protection , targeted topical care , and a personalized nutricosmetic approach , it is possible to regain even, visibly more radiant and resilient skin against skin aging .

Biocyte's approach, centered on scientific innovation , clinical proof and the synergy of active ingredients , offers a holistic response based on concrete biological mechanisms. Taking care of your skin also means acting from the inside out, consciously and with precision.