Beyond SPF: The Effects of Infrared and Visible Light on Skin Pigmentation and Aging

Sunscreen and SPF are typically the first things that we come across when we consider sun protection. UV radiation has historically received the greatest attention because to its well-known effects on sunburn, pigmentation, skin aging, and skin cancer. But the sun rays do not comprise only of ultraviolet rays. Infrared rays and visible light are also a part of sun rays, each with their own effects on the skin. According to modern-day findings, visible light can increase skin pigmentation, particularly in individuals with dark skin types and those with a predilection for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. On the other hand, infrared radiation oxidative stress and collagen changes result in skin aging. This is why the topic of photoprotection needs to go beyond just SPF. Patients who are dealing with pigmentation issues such as melasma and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation will greatly benefit from protecting themselves from visible light. Tinted sunscreens with iron oxide help with this protection. Iron oxide-based tinted sunscreens offer further protection from visible light. This paper covers the importance of visible light and infrared radiation in relation to skin pigmentation and aging. It also justifies why today's photoprotection should be broader than the conventional UV protection. Photoprotection therefore has to be understood as a holistic strategy and not just a matter of selecting a product with an SPF that is high. An appreciation of the effect of various elements of the solar radiation will enable aesthetic clinicians to give their clients the best skincare recommendations based on science. This paper considers the relevance of visible light and infrared radiation in skin pigmentation and ageing in order to understand why modern day photoprotection needs to go beyond traditional UV protection. Healthy skin photoprotection is more than just SPF; it is all about skin protection against all types of solar radiation.