Prevent dark spots and freckles in men with proper sun care!

Sun exposure is not the only cause of dark spots in men.
One of the causes of dark spots is sun exposure. However, there are other reasons why dark spots can appear besides sun exposure. We will explain each cause of dark spots one by one.

Cause 1: Not applying or having applied sunscreen
Applying sunscreen is the easiest and most effective way to prevent sun-induced dark spots. However, the reality is that not many men apply sunscreen thoroughly.
Unlike women who are accustomed to makeup, many men are reluctant to apply sunscreen to their face and body.
However, it takes several years for black melanin accumulated from sun exposure to appear as dark spots. In other words, the sunlight you are exposed to now will determine the condition of your skin several years down the line.

Cause 2: Shaving
Shaving is a part of men's grooming, but it also removes the stratum corneum and sebum film of the skin. Since the skin's protective function is weakened, if you do not moisturize properly after shaving, it can lead to dark spots.
Also, because the same area is repeatedly traced with a shaver, friction can sometimes cause hyperpigmentation.

Cause 3: Insufficient skincare
Skincare, such as face wash, lotion, milky lotion, serum, and cream, helps to improve the skin. This not only contributes to its aesthetic appearance but also protects the skin from external irritants.
When the skin's defense is weakened and it is exposed to UV rays and irritants, it can lead to dark spots.

Cause 4: Washing your face vigorously
Even if you do skincare, if you rub your skin vigorously while washing your face, the effects will be halved. You are essentially creating irritation yourself, which can lead to dark spots and wrinkles.
When washing your face, it is important to use plenty of foam and wash gently "with foam" so that your hands barely touch your skin. When applying lotion or cream to your face, apply it gently so that your moving hands do not crease your face.

Cause 5: Delayed skin cell turnover due to aging
As you age, skin cell turnover (metabolism) slows down, and the excess melanin produced cannot be discharged in time, remaining as dark spots.
While aging itself cannot be helped, it is important to pay attention to causes 1-3 mentioned above.

Prevent sun-induced dark spots in men with sun protection (sunscreen)!
A major cause of dark spots is sun exposure. Moreover, men tend to be less conscious of protecting their skin from the sun.
The condition of your skin several years from now depends on the dark spot prevention measures you take now (*1). First, thoroughly use sunscreen.
(*1) Suppresses melanin production and prevents dark spots and freckles

UV rays shine all year round.
While the sunlight feels strongest in summer, the UV rays that cause dark spots shine all year round. The pitfall here is often spring.
Skin that has gone through a dry winter is weakened. The sudden increase in UV rays and pollen during this time can cause skin problems.

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency "Annual Transition Graph of Daily Maximum UV Index (Analyzed Values)"

Q&A on men's dark spots
We answer frequently asked questions about men's dark spots.

Q1. Is laser treatment more effective for dark spots?
Laser treatment can sometimes be more effective and provide quicker results than creams or oral medications. However, the downsides include pain during the procedure, downtime, and cost.
Furthermore, there is no guarantee that any method will be 100% effective against dark spots, and hyperpigmentation may reappear after some time.

Q2. What ingredients should I be aware of that are effective for dark spots?
While a regular lifestyle is important, the following nutrients are good to be aware of during meals. If it is difficult to get enough from meals or if it is inefficient, we recommend taking supplements.

Vitamin C
Suppresses the production of black melanin and has the effect of decolorizing oxidized black melanin (citrus fruits, kiwi, paprika, etc.)

β-carotene (Vitamin A)
Suppresses the action of active oxygen and inhibits the production of black melanin (pumpkin, tomato, etc.)

Vitamin E
Supports the function of Vitamin C and suppresses the action of active oxygen (almonds, avocados, etc.)

L-Cysteine
Promotes the internal discharge of black melanin and suppresses the action of active oxygen (koya-dofu, sesame seeds, eggs, broccoli, etc.)

Summary
There are various causes of dark spots in men, but first and foremost, protect yourself from UV rays with sunscreen.
Beyond that, improve your skincare and lifestyle habits to maintain healthy skin.
If you are concerned about the stickiness unique to sunscreen, try SHIGARRO "SUNSCREEN 30," which has a light feel and is resistant to sweat and water.