Steps to Protect, Prevent, and Repair UV Damage
When it comes to caring for our skin, I am often asked about “sun damage.” How do you prevent it? How do you repair it? Unfortunately, despite the best intentions, prolonged exposure to UV radiation is going to leave its mark. This can look like premature aging, pigmentation issues and the list goes on. My hope with this guide is to discuss the science behind sun damage, its causes, and actionable steps to protect, prevent, and repair your skin.
What Does Sun Damage Look Like?
In my opinion, there is no better place to start than what sun damage can look like! Sun damage quite literally damages the DNA in skin cells, so the signs can vary. Here is a list of what some of these signs can look like:
Fine Lines & Wrinkles: This one might be the most obvious, but UV rays break down collagen and elastin. These proteins that maintain skin’s structure and elasticity.
Dark Spots & Uneven Tone: Melanin production increases with sun exposure, leading to hyperpigmentation or melasma.
Redness & Broken Capillaries: Excessive sun exposure can cause visible blood vessels, especially on fair skin.
Rough Texture: Sun damage slows cell turnover, which can leave skin rough and uneven.
Loss of Elasticity: Chronic exposure can lead to sagging, as UV rays degrade collagen and elastin.
Advanced Damage: We won’t be discussing the advanced damages in this blog, but I do think it’s important to briefly discuss what sun damage can lead to. Precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratosis, or skin cancers may also result from prolonged UV exposure.
What Causes Sun Damage?
Alright now that we know what it looks like, let’s briefly cover what causes said damage. Sun damage is primarily caused by two types of UV radiation:
UVA Rays: Penetrate deep into the skin, leading to aging effects like wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and pigmentation.
UVB Rays: Target the outer layer of the skin, causing sunburns and contributing to DNA mutations that may lead to skin cancer.
Other factors that intensify sun damage include:
Prolonged Exposure: Without proper protection, UV exposure accumulates over time.
Indoor Tanning: Artificial UV light can be even more harmful than natural sunlight. It’s not worth it!
Fair Skin or Genetic Predisposition: People with lighter skin or a family history of skin cancer are more susceptible.
How can we protect our skin?
Steps to Protect Your Skin
Daily Use of Sunscreen: Starting with the most obvious, broad-spectrum sunscreen is the cornerstone of sun protection. For the face, tinted sunscreens can provide additional benefits, offering a layer of protection against visible light. Also, just because I am constantly seeing people not applying enough SPF, make sure to be applying ¼ teaspoon for your face! Now I want to emphasize that covering the face is amazing, but don’t forget to apply spf on all exposed body skin! I see it all the time that patients' body skin is aging way faster than their facial skin. Finally, please reapply every 2 hours (to both face and body), especially before you go outside! Once a day in the morning is not enough!
Here are some of my favorite sunscreens:
Protective Clothing: Dr. Z talks about it in our recent podcast episode, but a lot of times sunscreen isn’t enough! We are all bound to either not apply enough or skip certain areas! Sun-protective clothing adds an extra layer of defense. I personally love driving gloves from Skinny Confidential and wide brim hats.
Timing and Shade: If you can, limit sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM). If you are in the sun (especially during those times), try to spend as much time in the shade as possible!
Antioxidants: Using a topical antioxidant, like vitamin C, can significantly enhance protection against sun damage. Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals generated by UV rays, reducing oxidative stress and preventing further DNA damage. When applied under sunscreen, vitamin C boosts the sunscreen’s efficacy, providing a stronger shield.
Why Most Sun Damage Is Irreversible
Alright I know this is not what you wanted to hear. However, the truth of the matter is that UV radiation causes DNA damage to skin cells, and while treatments can improve the appearance of damaged skin, the DNA mutations cannot be undone. This is why consistent prevention is critical. Also, please remember, even after treatments, continued sun protection is necessary to prevent further damage.
Treatments for Sun Damage
First and foremost, If you are looking for treatments that can help some of the appearance of sun damage, consult your dermatologist. They can recommend a variety of treatments to help repair your skin! Some of the treatments that might be recommended would be chemical peels, laser therapy, or microneedling.
Beyond that, there are topical treatments that may help:
Retinoids: Stimulates cell turnover and collagen production, improving fine lines and pigmentation. Besides SPF, this is absolutely your best bet in making a difference.
Vitamin C: Brighten dark spots and combat oxidative stress.
Chemical Exfoliants: Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) encourage skin renewal.
Ok I know that was a lot of information and I know how overwhelming sun damage can be! Remember, we all have it and it’s never too late to take action. As always, I am here to help! Reach out if you have any questions.
Hungry for more? Check out my Comprehensive Skincare Guide in the Skinthusiast Shop!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
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