Even though these days we’re much more aware of the harm the sun can do to the skin, many of us still develop some sun damage. Here you’ll learn more about what exactly the sun does to our skin, how we can prevent further damage, and what can be done about the damage already done.
What does sun exposure do to the skin?
When we’re in the sun, we are exposing our skin to ultraviolet radiation. In the short term, this can cause sunburn, which presents as redness, swelling, and sometimes blistering. Often, tanning of the skin will also occur, as ultraviolet exposure stimulates melanin (pigment) production, by our skin cells.
Longer term, sun exposure can cause damage to our DNA and increase the risk of skin cancer, as well as pre-cancerous spots such as actinic keratoses. Chronic sun exposure alters our collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin. Pigment production is increased, which can cause sun spots, darkening of freckles and uneven pigmentation, and blood vessels can be damaged, leading to dilated blood vessels and redness.
How can I prevent further sun damage?
The best ways to prevent further sun damage are to avoid being outdoors when the UV index is high, wearing an adequate amount of an SPF 50+ sunscreen daily and reapplying when needed, and wearing a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing. Many apps are available which tell you what the UV index is each day, which can give you a guide as to when are safe times to be outdoors. Sun protection is always recommended when the UV index is 3 or above, but it is safest to sun protect all the time. Applying an antioxidant each morning underneath sunscreen and makeup can help protect against sun damage, but does not act as a sunscreen.
How can my sun damage be treated?
The different elements of sun damage need to be treated differently.
- Fine wrinkles may be improved with topical retinoids, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, niacinamide, antioxidants such as vitamin C, as well as chemical peels, radiofrequency and laser.
- Prominent blood vessels and redness may be treated with laser or intense pulsed light.
- Pigmentation may be improved by vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha hydroxy acids, kojic acid, alpha arbutin, licorice root extract, azelaic acid, chemical peels, intense pulsed light or laser.
- Sagging of the skin and deeper wrinkles may require dermal fillers, ultrasound, radiofrequency, laser or surgery.
- Pre-cancerous spots and skin cancers require medical assessment, and may be treated with medicated creams, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy or surgery.
