sunlight in moderation is useful. It is an important source of vitamin D, needed for many vital processes in our body. Sunlight can also lighten the mood. Thanks to them, produce serotonin (the happiness hormone), and its deficiency is known to lead to depression. However, the sun is not the best way affects our skin, especially if it is a problem. Asked dermatologists: is it true that the sun “dries” inflammation and where did the myth that it helps fight acne.
As in most myths about skin care, the idea that sun exposure helps to get rid of acne based on insufficient understanding of how the sun actually affects our body. The skin is a powerful barrier that protects from environmental influences. Another feature is the conservation of moisture by using a combination of lipids, ceramides and amino acids.
When we spend a few minutes in direct sunlight, the skin is exposed to huge amounts of UV radiation. It harms the skin, causing a sharp reduction of lipids and moisture (this is a response to damage).
because Of this, the skin becomes dry, and whiteheads and acne seem less inflamed. In 2003 scientists conducted a study and found that the number of sebocytes (cells that secrete sebum) increases by 120-140% within four days after exposure under direct sunlight.
dermatologist explains Caroline Robinson, the myth of the sun as a cure for acne on the body exists because most people don’t see the full picture of what is happening below the skin’s surface.
Sometimes after sun exposure pimples on the surface are less sore because the skin dries and temporarily produces less sebum. But within these pimples and inflammation still exist, and exposure to the sun without SPF can lead to much more serious problems, including risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation, not to mention skin cancer.
sunlight can also cause the appearance of a certain type of acne (Aestivalis). This occurs when the UVA rays are connected with the chemical substances in certain funds to care for the skin and sunscreen and cause an allergic reaction. This kind of acne mainly appears in women aged 25 to 40 years.
Natalia Yazev, beautician Institute of cosmetology Le Colon, coach Biologique Recherche, warns that the owners of oily skin problems from acne to sunburn should be treated with caution. Some influence of the sun really improves the skin condition. Spectrum of visible light, possesses bactericidal properties, resulting in comedones podsyhayut, infrared radiation warms up and stagnant spots become less noticeable. But it’s a false effect, which occurs after the period of exacerbation.
And this is for several reasons.
1. Even a slight heating of the skin leads to changes of pH (acid-alkaline balance) in the direction of alkalizing (the norm is acidic). Alkaline environment is favorable for bacterial growth of acne.
2. Ultraviolet light promotes the thickening of the stratum corneum, which complicates the process of sebum on the surface.
3. Under the influence of the sun changes the chemical composition of sebum: it becomes more dense and forms a tube at the mouth of the gland.
4. Androgen receptors become sensitive and “stimulate” the glands to work harder.
All these elements need to be considered. Choosing the correct care, you can avoid unpleasant consequences.
I agree With this opinion and Ekaterina Lyutikova, doctor-dermatologist, expert Arcaya.
There is a myth that the sun “dries” of inflammation. But it is important doses of ultraviolet radiation, as any radiation. And you can get them only with the help of various devices. Therefore, in the quantities in which UV rays fall on the skin in the Solarium or during a stay at the beach, they will not heal the acne, she said.
the Sun dries out your skin, taking away the moisture, and then stimulates the activity of sebaceous glands. As a result of inflammation can manifest itself with renewed vigor. Therefore, for acne always important SPF protection and moderate doses of ultraviolet.
How to care for skin?
so, what to do for acne treatment without compromising your health? Dr. Robinson advises products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Choose a gentle exfoliating gel to cleanse the skin. br>Any cleanser that contains hydroxy acid, may be useful in the treatment of acne on the body. The gel will help to remove excess fat and dead cells from the skin surface without drying it. explains dermatologist Joshua Zeichner.
the Second point is correct sunscreen. For acne-prone skin, most dermatologists recommend oil-free and are non-comedogenic formula.
Some of the components in sunscreens can cause acne. The thing clogging pores and reaction on the ingredients that block ultraviolet light,
— said the doctor of medicine and dermatologist Hadley king.
it is best to look for on the label the words “are non-comedogenic” and avoid all potential irritants such as fragrances and preservatives.
