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How To Repair Sun-Damaged Skin Naturally
Did you know that up to 85% of your skin's aging is caused by the sun? Many think that it's because of chronic stress, or not getting enough z's or too much vino during the week. But it's not. It's those sun rays.
The sun is most likely to blame for our fine lines and age spots too. If you're wondering how to repair your sun-damaged skin we have the answer! And the beautiful part is that you can do it naturally without having to resort to painful laser treatments. This is a must-read post before we head into the fall season.
Here are some smart ways to fend off the effects of sun damage regardless of your age:
1. Limit sun exposure between 10 am and 2 pm
FDA recommends limiting sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun's rays are most intense.
2. Use the right amount of sunscreen
You need to wear a minimum of 30 SPF. Apply at least 1/4 teaspoon on your face to ensure you're getting the promised protection on the label.
You see, SPF ratings are based on an application of 2 milligrams per square centimeter of skin. That works out to about 1/4 tsp for just your face. That's drastically more than people think they need. If you are not using 1/4 tsp on your face daily, consider measuring it out to see how much you actually need to use.
3. Use these ingredients to reverse sun damage
Niacinamide
This is a potent agent that works to minimize dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Studies have shown that niacinamide can:
- act as an antioxidant
- improve epidermal barrier function
- decrease skin hyperpigmentation
- reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- decrease redness and blotchiness
- decrease skin yellowing
- improve skin elasticity
It works by blocking the pigment from surfacing onto the outer layer of skin and may also decrease pigment production.
We recommend Pure Fiji's Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel with niacinamide. It's used overnight to help with fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, acne scars and enlarged pores.
Topical retinols
One of the other ways to fix sun damaged skin is by using retinoids. These Vitamin A compounds stimulate the skin to; renew, increase the production of collagen, lightening dark spots, and improve its texture.
But here's the thing. Summer skin and retinol are two things that just don't mesh. The general rule for retinol use is that you avoid the sun since it makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
The good news is Pure Fiji's Kakadu Super Vitamin C Brightening Serum and Kakadu Super Vitamin C Brightening Oil contain Bakuchiol which is a less-irritating, natural alternative to retinol making it ideal for sensitive skin.
Bakuchiol, is a plant extract that offers the same skin benefits of a retinol, without the irksome side effects. Bakuchiol is an ingredient derived from the psoralea corylifolia plant,"" aka the ""babchi"" plant.
Bakuchiol has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antibacterial properties. Bakuchiol functions like a retinol, increasing cell turnover thereby stimulating collagen production and diminishing signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, and overall photodamage.
Vitamin C
This is a super ingredient that has anti-aging benefits and repairs existing skin damage. It blocks damage before it even happens by neutralizing free radicals. It also helps rebuild your skin's structure by stimulating collagen production, a protein that makes up your connective tissue and gives your skin its structure.
Pure Fiji's Kakadu Super Vitamin C Serum can be a great addition to your skin care routine either in the morning before sunscreen, or at night. It's also a great sidekick to a strong daily broad-spectrum sunscreen. While it can't replace sunscreen, it is a smart way to step up your protection efforts.
You'll get the most benefit when you use it in the morning. Typically, it should be applied before heading out for the day.
But what you may not realize is that vitamin C becomes less effective when exposed to light, so it's vital that you allow the serum to absorb into your skin before going outside. Always layer underneath sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 as the vitamin C will protect the skin too.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)
Alpha hydroxy acids help reduce hyperpigmentation. It is recommended for evening use with a sunscreen used in the morning.
Start slowly, once per week, gradually increasing the frequency as tolerated. The most commonly used AHAs include glycolic acid (derived from sugarcane), lactic acid (derived from milk), and mandelic acid (derived from bitter almonds).
Whether you're looking to reserve the signs of photoaging or recover from acne pigmentation, sun protection is the first step.
Fresh Garden Sprout Extract
Fresh Garden Sprout Extract is full of antioxidants, helps fight photo-ageing, and targets and lightens dark spots and pigmentation while evening and brightening skin tone.
Find this ingredient in Pure Fiji's Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel, Papaya Purifying Enzyme Masque and Vitamin C Brightening Creme.
Summary
Soaking in those sun rays too often will begin to show in the form of wrinkles, freckles, saggy skin, dark spots and imbalanced pigmentation. While you may consider fillers, laser treatment, and other invasive, costly, and often painful procedures to combat sun damage to your skin, we recommend a more natural approach first.
