Sunburn turns into spots? Uncover the secret of melanin in summer!

In the summer, the sun is shining brightly, and we often enjoy the warmth and pleasure of basking in the sun. However, did you know that when our skin is exposed to the sun, a magical substance in the body, melanin, will also change, playing an important role in protecting the skin.

Melanin is a pigment found in the skin that gives our skin, hair and eyes their colour. In everyday life, melanin plays a role in protecting us when we are sunburned. When the skin is stimulated by ultraviolet rays, melanocytes rapidly produce melanin particles and transfer them to keratinocytes.

This process of melanin production and transfer is called "melanin augmentation and distribution". Its purpose is to absorb and scatter UV rays to reduce damage to skin cells. Melanin forms a protective barrier, similar to a parasol, providing skin cells with additional protection from direct UV damage to DNA.

However, when melanin production exceeds a certain limit, we begin to see "sun spots" or "pigmentation spots" appear on the skin. This is because the distribution of melanin becomes uneven, causing some areas to have too much pigment, forming dark spots or hyperpigmentation. This usually occurs in areas that are often exposed to direct sunlight, such as the face, arms and neck.

So, how can you protect your skin from excessive melanin production? Here are some suggestions:

Use sunscreen : Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen, which can effectively block UVA and UVB, and prevent excessive UV rays from entering the skin.

Avoid sun exposure time : Avoid being exposed to strong sunlight for too long, especially during midday hours.

Wear a hat and sun-proof clothing : Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved clothing can effectively block direct sunlight and reduce the production of melanin.

Foods rich in antioxidants : Consuming foods rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, carotene, etc., can help protect the skin from damage by free radicals.

Rehydrate in time : Sun exposure can cause skin moisture loss, so remember to replenish water in time to keep your skin hydrated.

The production and distribution of melanin is a natural response of our body's wisdom to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. However, overexposure to the sun can lead to excess melanin, causing problems such as pigmentation. Therefore, it is vital to protect your skin and respond to the sun correctly.