Pedro Catalá, doctor of pharmacy, beautician and founder of Twelve Beauty, explains the compelling reasons why stains should be prevented from now on: “Cosmetics usually follow a calendar with the most recommended products according to the time of year and with the arrival of the month of September we regularly visit highly effective launches as depigmenting agents, but we forget that the key is to prevent the appearance of spots in the summer,” he says.
Antioxidants, the best protection
“In addition to the mandatory and essential sun protection that should accompany us not only in summer, but all year round, products with a high antioxidant content have been shown to minimize the damage caused by free radicals. Thanks to their soothing and antioxidant properties, these products prevent oxidative stress and minimize the appearance of the dreaded spots. My favorite ingredients include tocopherol (vitamin E), mallow, speedwell, lemon balm and yarrow,” explains Pedro Catalá.
Some recommendations
Heat also makes them worse: in addition to sun exposure, which should of course be avoided, heat during these months, as high temperatures cause mild inflammation that increases melanin levels in the skin. Also, be careful with exfoliating, for the same reason explained earlier: it also leaves the skin inflamed.
Avoid using cosmetics with essential oils such as lavender, which is rich in coumarin and can increase the intensity of the spots if it comes in contact with the skin. Also those of hypericum, bergamot, cumin and star anise, as they are light sensitive. Even when you’re not exercising and at home, you need to stay hydrated. Dehydration negatively affects the health of the skin and makes it more vulnerable to external factors.
The Best (Natural) Anti-Pimples Cosmetic Allies
- yarrow: contains essential oils and iridioids that block the function of tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for the excessive production of melanin in the skin.
- coin: rich in essential oils, tannins and polyphenols that inhibit melanin production.
- Veronica: packed with iridium and flavonoids that improve skin radiance.
- Melissa: It has an anti-inflammatory effect that makes the skin more radiant.
- Cucumber: In addition to its soothing and moisturizing properties, it helps to detoxify sun-damaged skin.
- Primula: naturally illuminates the skin thanks to the concentration of saponins, essential oils and flavonoids.
- buddleja: Rich in antioxidant flavonoids and phenolic acids that help neutralize free radicals that cause skin discoloration.
- lion’s paw: rich in tannins that help improve skin tone.
- mallow: It has a great moisturizing and soothing effect on the skin. The high content of essential oils and tannins play an important role in minimizing hyperpigmentation.
- firewood: It is able to reduce the redness of the skin caused by the use of chemical products or by sun exposure, which are the prelude to pigmentation.
- artemisia: Rich in chlorogenic acid, essential oils, tannins and flavonoids that help neutralize free radicals generated by sunlight.
- imperative: exerts a re-epithelializing, moisturizing and antioxidant effect.
Source: Marie Claire
