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Premature Aging from Sun Damage and How to Prevent It

Premature Aging from Sun Damage and How to Prevent It

July 29 2020
Do you know the most common cause of premature skin aging? It’s sun damage. The same sun that gives you that beautiful sunkissed tan that everyone wants. Sure it looks great at the moment, but it comes at a price. Let’s take a look at how the sun ages your skin and how you can prevent it.

Exposure to UV rays in sunlight triggers changes in the skin. The most readily noticeable of these changes is a suntan. The skin begins to produce more melanin to protect you from sunburns, and it’s that increase in melanin that gives the skin a darker appearance that we know as a tan. 

But that’s not all that the UV rays increase the production of. Sun exposure also prompts the production of free radicals in the skin. These free radicals cause damage to the elastin and collagen fibers within the skin, the fibers that give skin its elasticity. This damage increases over time and eventually leads to sagging skin and wrinkles. 

While you can’t avoid the sun entirely, you can prevent or minimize much of this damage. Your first line of defense against skin damage from the sun is sunscreen. All exposed skin should have an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen applied every single day before going out in the sun, even on cloudy or overcast days. 

Keep as much skin as possible covered with protective clothing when out in the sun. A wide brimmed hat will offer excellent protection for your face and neck. Another step you can take is to avoid being out in the sun at midday when the sun is strongest, between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm.

Are you already seeing those signs of premature aging? Schedule a consultation with the expert estheticians at Helen’s Haven today to develop a plan to repair some of the damage and bring back your youthful glow. You can find us at 4819 Ave., #6 in Honolulu, or give us a call at 808-739-0400. Prefer to instantly make your own appointment? Try our mobile app, available for a free download at the App Store or Google Play.

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