Spending years outdoors in the sun takes a toll on our skin. The hours and days we are exposed to the elements show up as age spots, wrinkles, sagging skin, and discoloration. Unfortunately for sun lovers, sun damage can age your skin prematurely and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Read about the most common signs and symptoms of sun damage on the face and body, and how to improve the appearance of your skin.
Signs and symptoms of sun damage | How to protect your skin from sun damage
Facial sun damage: signs and symptoms to look out for
Unlike typical chronological aging, which is determined by age and genetics, damage from sunburn It occurs when UV rays from the sun permanently change the structure of the skin. Symptoms include:
rough dry skin texture
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can change the texture of your skin. This may look like scaly patches or dense, rough skin that rises from the surface.by American Academy of Dermatology Associationdeep wrinkles and dry, scaly patches may be found. actinic keratosis (AK), a precancerous skin growth. This type of sun damage can also cause symptoms such as: skin cancer, AK can transform into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Staying alert for changes in your skin and consulting your doctor can help detect potential skin cancer early.
wrinkles and fine lines
Long-term changes in the skin’s collagen, which gives skin its elasticity, can be a symptom of sun damage. These changes may include fine lines, wrinkles, and a thickening of the skin’s texture. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause your skin to age prematurely. causes collagen loss and skin elasticity. In fact, what is surprising is that 90% of visible aging It is caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
sagging, sagging
Elastin and collagen are two proteins in the skin that degrade not only through the natural aging process but also due to: external factors over time. These factors include excessive sun exposure as well as lifestyle choices such as poor nutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking. This disruption of collagen and elastin production results in sagging skin.
spider veins
When collagen deteriorates, its structure becomes brittle, Decrease in perivascular pressure And the elasticity of the skin also decreases. This change means spider veins are more likely to appear on the surface of your skin as a network of red, purple, and blue lines reminiscent of a spider web.
ruddy complexion
Ruddy skin can be inherited. However, it can also be caused by excessive sun exposure. Ruddy skin is characterized by a reddish appearance and skin that appears uneven, patchy, or has broken capillaries.
hyperpigmentation
Uneven skin pigmentation (or hyperpigmentation) is a broad term that refers to the appearance of uneven skin tone or dark spots. When your skin tone becomes uneven, you may notice that areas of your skin are discolored or darkened due to sun damage or genetics. Skin pigmentation can be classified as either raised lesions (papules or plaques) or flat lesions (macules or macules).
Another type of hyperpigmentation may be seen in moles. If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, check with your doctor to check for signs of skin cancer. Dark spots that were light in color when you first noticed them in your 30s can change their appearance later in life. Keep an eye out for these dark spots and seek medical attention if you notice any changes in color, texture, size, or shape.
Dark spots, also known as sun spots, melasma, or lentigines, are yet another type of hyperpigmentation. They look like oversized freckles or flat brown spots.These are formed from Chronic UV exposure And they usually appear on the arms, legs, face, hands, neck, and décolleté. This is different from skin pigmentation problems, which occur when cells are damaged and melanin production is reduced.
If you notice any of these skin issues, read on to learn how to protect your skin from further sun damage and improve your skin health.
How to protect your skin from sun damage
If you want to keep your skin glowing and healthy long-term, here are six steps you can take to protect it.
1. Apply SPF every 2 hours
2. Limit time spent outdoors and wear protective clothing
Limit your time outdoors when the sun is at its peak, which in most parts of the United States is usually from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Skin Cancer Foundation says: Cover up with clothing, hats, and sunscreen. You should also look for shade, especially when the sun is strong.
3. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
If you notice these symptoms of sun-damaged skin, the first thing you can do is put the brakes on further damage. One of the most effective preventive measures is sunscreen. Incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine can help prevent early signs of aging and other sun damage with minimal effort, so choose a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF (sun protection factor) value of 30 or higher. Please use it regularly. Read this guide to learn about the benefits of sunscreen and why you should wear it every day.
4. Look for “Broad Spectrum” on the label
SPF measures how well a formula protects you from UVB rays, but it doesn’t tell you anything about protection from UVA rays. So the second element to look for in a sunscreen is a label that says “broad spectrum.” This label means it is protected from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for the signs of wrinkles and fine lines. By comparison, UVB rays cause sunburn and skin cancer.
5. Choose an SPF that contains moisturizing ingredients
If your skin becomes dry due to sun exposure, certain ingredients can help restore moisture. For example, our Radiant Protection SPF Fluid has a moisturizing and nourishing feel while also helping protect your skin from the harsh effects of the sun.You can watch it below mixed with A quick refresher video on how to properly apply Radiant Protection SPF Fluid.
6. Check your body regularly
Every time you get out of the bath or shower, check your body from head to toe to blend it into your skin and see if any new spots appear. Pay close attention to existing spots as well and notice if their appearance changes in any way. Let me remind you that changes in size, shape, color, or borders are signs of red (or pink, brown) and should be checked by a doctor.
7. Use products containing vitamins and antioxidants
Applying SPF and using products with vitamins and antioxidants can truly protect your skin from the sun. Consider vitamins C and E and SPF as your skin’s ultimate shield against environmental elements. SPF blocks UVA and UVB rays, while the nutrients in serums like Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum protect skin from dryness associated with environmental stressors. This serum is packed with antioxidants from citrus, leafy greens, and avocado and works perfectly with our His SPF products to boost your skin’s defenses.
Showing signs of sun damage? Check out our range of sun care products to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, or visit your local Eminence Spa to identify and restore skin damage.
