Have you looked into the mirror lately, only to discover more brown spots that at one time looked more like freckles?  They seem to be spreading; perhaps there are more on the left side of your face and neck.

Ever wonder about that?  It is from the sun shining through your windows on the driver’s side of your car.  Yes, even when you are driving you need to use a physical-block sunscreen, not just a mineral makeup that contains sunscreen nor just a foundation containing sunscreen. The amount of protecting ingredients in these products is minimal, and they are not effective enough to use as sunscreen. Don’t be fooled into believing that is all you need to protect your skin from harmful rays.

The number 1 cause of aging and wrinkles: SUN DAMAGE, LADIES.

You must apply sunscreen under your make-up and cream, EVERY MORNING. AND DON’T FORGET YOUR HANDS!

You don’t have to spend a lot of $$$ on suncreeen. Read the ingredients. Buy a physical block vs a chemical block.

Why? PHYSICAL BLOCKERS, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, provide the most comprehensive coverage. They sit on top of your skin and reflect the rays of the sun, shielding what’s underneath. They protect against both UVA and UVB rays and they are effective immediately upon application–no need to wait before going outside.

Chemical blockers contain ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and benzophenone, which can break down in the sun.

Look for Mexoryl (found in all L’Oreal sunscreens, including L’Oreal’s Vichy and Ombrelle brands), Helioplex (found inAveeno and Neutrogena), and AvoTriplex (found in Banana Boat).

Many physicians carry excellent sunscreen products in their offices. Some brands to look for which you can also buy online. One word of caution: When you buy these online, buy only from a reputable online vendor.

EltraMD,

Ti-Silk

La Roche Posay Anthelios SX

Melashade- MD only

Obagi

Some physicians private-label their own sunscreen products; they are usually manufactured by a reputable company and are effective.

BUMP UP THE EFFICACY OF SUNSCREEN WITH A GOOD VITAMIN C SERUM.  Look for products with a stable form of C; such as L- ascorbic acid.  Look for products that have Ferulic acid in them as the ferulic helps to stabilize the Vitamin C. It is best to purchase these products from your derm or MD. rather than from Macy’s or Nordstrom.  If you buy mass retail, you are paying more for packaging than for quality.  Vitamin C will also help to brighten up your skin.

Stay tuned for more info on how to treat those nasty brown spots and Melasma.