Summer’s out and Autumn’s in. But if you are still guilty of having too much time under the sun even though the season has already changed, worry no more. There are ways to help stop or even reverse skin damage caused by the sun.
Sun damage is a result of frequent or excessive sun exposure which can lead to serious skin conditions. Its effects accumulate over time and you should be smart enough to stick to a sun protection regimen, year round.
While there are people who started late in giving their skin ample sun protection, there’s still hope. Here’s an infographic to show you the fixes you need!
Reverse the Effects of Sun Damaged Skin
A day in the sun without ample sun protection can lead to skin damages. And while it may not show outright effects, you can expect damages to surface years later. This happens as a result of UV radiation which causes an alteration in the actual DNA makeup of the skin cells.
SUN DAMAGED SKIN: THE SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR
- Fine Lines
- Wrinkles
- Skin Dryness
- Patches of Dull, Rough Skin
- Skin Tightness
- Age Spots
- Skin Cancer
HOW TO REVERSE SUN DAMAGED SKIN
It’s possible to reverse sun damage that has been done on your skin. Starting now can actually prevent further damage and even reverse its effects up to some degree.
Here are the steps to follow for your skin to be on its way to recovery:
1. NEVER MISS A DAY WITHOUT SUNSCREEN
As basic as it may sound, proper and regular use of sunscreen, particularly with SPF 15 or higher, benefits the skin and keep it free from damages.
- Lowers sun exposure
- Reduces long-term risk of skin cancer
- Provides time for the skin to heal
- Allows the immune system to repair skin damage
*For best results use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
Did you know?
Excessive exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) light increases the risk for skin cancer and precancers like actinic keratoses.
2. EXFOLIATE TO GET RID OF DEAD SKIN CELLS
The buildup of dead cells on the outermost skin cell layer causes uneven and blotchy appearance, making regular exfoliation necessary as it:
- Gives the skin a clean look
- Restores skin luster
- Leaves skin smoother
3. KEEP SKIN HYDRATED
Your skin loses moisture not only with exposure to the sun but to other elements as well, like chlorine and saltwater. Proper hydration works especially with hand and body creams, moisturizers, and facial serums that offer numerous benefits.
- Plumps skin, even the area around the eyes
- Makes the skin appear less wrinkled
- Stimulates collagen production
Did you know?
The Skin Cancer Foundation revealed that sun damage is responsible for 90% of aging signs and wrinkle formation.
4. GET HIGH ON VITAMIN C
When your skin is exposed to UV rays, there is also an increase in free radicals that can speed up skin ageing and get in the way of collagen production. Consume foods that are rich in Vitamin C and make use of skin care essentials with this nutrient like serums that help firm the skin and rebuild collagen.
- Facilitates the growth of new and healthy cells
- Prevents premature ageing of the skin
- Controls skin darkening by inhibiting enzyme tyrosinase
- Fights collagen-damaging free radicals
5. LOAD UP ON ANTIOXIDANTS
Just as Vitamin C is essential for skin health and rejuvenation, antioxidants are also essential in making sure that free radicals are kept at bay to maintain plump and youthful looking complexion. Stick to a diet that is rich in antioxidants and look for products like that you can use for the body to give your skin the boost it needs.
- Prevents collagen breakdown
- Preserves elasticity and firms the skin
- Calms inflammation
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Stimulates blood flow in the skin
Sun protection is a basic necessity for proper skin care. But if you’ve spent too much time under the sun, whether it’s summer season or not, you can worry less by following the above-mentioned tips that can help reduce the effects of sun exposure–and even reverse the damages that have already been done on your skin.
Is your skin getting the protection it needs? Find more skin care advice and useful information that can impact your overall wellness by browsing through our lifestyle magazine.
