5 Skincare Products to Help Combat Sun Damage
Now that summer has officially come to an end, we are all getting back to our normal routines. Diet, Exercise and Skincare often take a backseat during summer vacations. Hopefully you were able to enjoy yourself BUT hopefully – you didn’t forget to wear your sunscreen. Even if you were mindful about sun exposure and did your best to protect your skin, after a few months of the blazing sun and heat, your complexion is bound to have a few imperfections.
I wanted to briefly touch on some of the main ingredients used in the products below. One of the ingredients that is an absolute must for sun damaged skin is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that fights against free radicals and delays the formation of aging signs. It can also help protect the collagen to maintain firm and supple skin. It is one of the best skin brighteners that can reduce the appearance of sun spots. Glycolic Acid is an excellent exfoliate that brightens the skin, smooths fine wrinkles and improves the skin's tone and texture. Tranexamic Acid, another acid to fight sun damage, helps correct the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Here are my favorite products on the market that combat sun damage:
1.) SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic With 15% L-Ascorbic Acid
This was the first product recommended to me by my dermatologist. It is a lightweight serum that combines vitamin C, vitamin E and Ferulic acid; all powerful antioxidants that protect the skin against environmental elements and can even reverse existing damage. It also contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol; which soothe and replenish the skin. SkinCeuticals also has two other versions for acne prone skin which I like as well. The only negatives about this serum is the cost and smell. Susan Yara with Mixed Makeup said it best "It smells a little like hot dog water-but so worth it!"
2.) Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel
I have been using these two-step daily treatments on and off for years. Within just a few days I have noticeable brightening results and improved texture. Each peel pad is an oil-free formula containing an effective dose of 7 alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA & BHA), antioxidants such as chamomile and green tea extract and vitamins such as retinol to accelerate cell turnover and remove surface dullness for a smooth, flawless complexion. They are super easy to travel with as well.
3. DRUNK ELEPHANT - T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial™ 25% AHA + 2% BHA Mask
This was one of my first “cult favorite” at home treatment splurges and it did not disappoint. The at-home “facial” effectively yet gently exfoliates the pore lining and resurfaces by getting rid of built-up dead skin cells. With a whopping 25% AHA / 2% BHA blend of dream team glycolic, tartaric, lactic, citric and salicylic acids, this pro-quality formula dramatically smooths texture while minimizing the look of pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Babyfacial™ delivers incredible brightening and enzymatic action, improves skin’s elastic feel, and reveals the look of a more even, radiant, baby-soft complexion. These features are achieved utilizing a uniquely formulated with chickpea flour, pumpkin ferment, a soothing antioxidant blend of matcha tea, milk thistle and apple. Think of it as an extra nudge for stubborn dull skin. Use once weekly and apply an even layer to clean, dry skin. Leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry. Slight tingling may occur. Pair with your favorite hydrating oil or moisturizer.
4.SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum (2 oz.)
This product is another “cult favorite” splurge and one of my favorite dermatology office finds. The Serum addresses the appearance of stubborn discoloration; making even skin tones possible for all skin types. Powered by niacinamide and tetrapeptide-30; this skin brightening formula prevents the appearance of new spots while a marine extract blend supports a healthy skin barrier. Improvements seen in as early as 2 weeks with progressively dramatic results at 12 weeks and beyond. It also helps optimize results of multiple treatment approaches; including chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion and prescription skin care products; such as hydroquinone. I am very excited for our next blog post that will discuss the benefits of the treatments listed above.
5. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
This is the best dupe I have found for the Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial. I would say they almost identical with results, but not close in price. This 10-minute exfoliating “vampire” facial packs a punch with 30 percent AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and two percent BHA (beta hydroxy acid) to diminish the look of blemishes. It smooths the look of skin texture for a more radiant look. I call it the vampire facial because it looks like you are applying blood to your face. They recommend using 2 times per week. This is not a product I would overuse. It is extremely effective (I would actually consider a Holy Grail Product) but it can be very harsh on even the toughest skin so follow the instructions and proceed with caution.
So if you spent too much time in the sun this summer, now you know how to get your skin back on the right track. Any of the products above can help you replenish and rejuvenate your skin and restore its youthful, healthy glow. Always remember to use SPF daily ESPECIALLY when using these products.
xoxo,
Allison