The Effects of Sun on the Skin: How to Eliminate the Risks and Treat the Damage

We all love the beautiful glow of sun-kissed skin, the illusion of health and vitality that a tan can give. However, what damage is the sun really causing beneath the surface?

The sun’s rays can be extremely harmful, not only to the appearance of our skin but also its health. It is important to know what the sun’s rays are doing to our bodies – what to look out for and what can be done to protect our skin.

Sun damage is caused by UV rays. UVB rays cause skin cancer and it is imperative that medical advice is sought if you notice a new skin growth, a change to an existing mole or any skin changes that seem unusual.

UVA rays cause skin damage that create signs of premature ageing, including: discolouration, lines and wrinkles; uneven and sagging skin. The good news is that these symptoms can be halted and combatted with the latest treatments.

Protect your Skin Today and Tomorrow

The first thing that needs to be done today, and everyday, is to apply a broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin and prevent any further damage. Applied after or in place of moisturiser and before make-up, this simple addition to your skin care regime is an absolute must to protect your skin and as a preventative measure. 

A good SPF should be at least an SPF15, the latest formulations even offer additional benefits such as hydration and brightening treatments. The World Health Organisation recommends SPF to be applied liberally every two hours or after outdoor activity.

Sun Damage from Yesterdays

It may be that damage has already been inflicted on your skin from overexposure to the Sun – so what do you need to look out for and what can be done to help?

Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation

Did you know that a tan is actually your skin’s way of trying to protect itself? Skin produces darker melanin to act as a barrier to protect the skin underneath. Over time this can cause permanent changes in the colour and appearance of skin. 

Solar Lentigines (also known as Liver Spots)

Solar Lentigines are usually oval shaped, flat areas of darker skin that unlike freckles don’t fade in colder months. These spots continue to appear with continued exposure to sun and the passing of time.

Broken Capillaries 

These can expand and lead to a red and mottled appearance of the skin. 

Chemical Peels and Microneedling can help reverse some of these effects by lightening unwanted pigment and giving a more even appearance to the skin

Lines and Wrinkles  

Premature lines and wrinkles are the most common skin concern when it comes to the damage the sun can cause.

Solar Elastosis

The sun’s UV rays penetrate beneath the epidermis layer of skin and damage the connective tissue and bonds that keep elasticity, causing yellowing and deep wrinkles that remain visible when the skin is stretched. 

Treatments such as Aqua Gold can promote healthy skin and revitalisation, another great option is a chemical peel to diminish fine lines and wrinkles and brighten and smooth out skin.

With many issues beyond burning caused by the sun it is a good idea to book a skincare consultation with one of our skin experts today to go through which treatments could suit your skin needs.