It’s important to check the date on your SPF to make sure it hasn’t expired, as this can also impact its efficacy. And even if sunscreen says it’s waterproof, it still needs to be reapplied after swimming. Sun protection is still important in skin of colour, even though the risk of sunburn is much lower. Formulation is really important as some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast on dark skin.

In addition to regular and liberal application of a broad-spectrum SPF50, I would also recommend protective clothing and accessories to shield your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. This includes wide-brimmed hats, UPF clothing, and sunglasses. It is also important to stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm on sunny days, or when the UV index is high.

Regular mole checks are also important to allow early detection of abnormal moles and skin growths that may require treatment.

Ingredients to consider

Vitamin C & E

Vitamin C can reverse some of the signs of sun damage such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles by blocking the production of melanin, increasing skin turnover and boosting collagen production.

In addition, vitamin C and E are effective antioxidants and protect the skin from oxidative stress generated from UV rays and environmental pollution.

AHAs

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid and lactic acid exfoliate the skin, promoting a brighter complexion and reducing the appearance of sunspots.

Niacinamide & Azelaic acid

Niacinamide and azelaic acid can also help to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.

Derm-recommended treatments

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum is an excellent choice to reverse the signs of skin ageing. It combines vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid to protect against environmental damage, brighten the complexion and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Antioxidant Serum offers similar protective benefits to CE Ferulic but is better suited for oily skin, to reduce pigmentation, even out skin tone and refine skin texture.

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Antioxidant Serum for Normal, Combination, Discolouration-Prone Skin Types

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Serum delivers a stabilised form of Retinaldehyde to stimulate collagen production, smooth fine lines and improve the clarity and firmness of the skin over time.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Serum

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