It’s tempting to take a filling dose of vitamin D by soaking in the sun. But, while you’re enjoying the bliss, your skin is struggling to keep it safe from sun damage. The adverse effect that the sun has on your skin is called photodamage. This further leads to a phenomenon called photoaging. Let’s learn more about it.
WHAT IS PHOTOAGING?
Aging is a natural process. But, photoaging is the aging caused due to sun damage which accelerates the natural aging process. When you overdo your daily dosage of the sun, you get prolonged exposure to its UVA and UVB rays. These rays penetrate your skin and break down the collagen that keeps your skin healthy. As the collagen breaks down, it accelerates the aging process.
Moving on to the next question, ‘How do you know if you’re falling prey to photoaging?’ Let’s understand what sign to look out for.
SIGNS OF PHOTOAGING
There’s a very fine line between being sun-kissed and sun-damaged. Some of the following signs may be visible.
DARK SPOTS
Dark spots appear and the skin may show an uneven skin tone.
WRINKLES AND FINE LINES
The UV rays of the sun break down the collagen and elastin. These are responsible for keeping the skin tight. As they break down the skin it leads to fine lines and wrinkles.
SAGGY SKIN
The skin’s ability to remain firm is hampered by ultraviolet rays. This occurs as the elastin breaks down, and makes the skin loose and saggy.
HOW TO PREVENT?
Better safe than regret later! You can opt for precautionary measures beforehand to save yourself the trouble of dealing with sun damage later.
SUNSCREEN
Use a good quality non-comedogenic physical sunscreen. Make sure the sunscreen has a SPF factor of 30 and above. Applying sunscreen before going out in the sun will reduce the impact of the ultraviolet rays and blue light on your skin.
ACCESSORIES
Use accessories like sunglasses, hats, lightweight clothing, or umbrellas to stay safe from the sun.
SEEK SHADE
Seek shade whenever you can! Some time off from the sun’s heat will provide a good amount of relief and your skin will thank you for it.
HOW TO DEAL WITH PHOTODAMAGE?
You don’t have to worry much if you’re suffering from photoaging. You cannot reverse the clock, but surely you can reduce the impact of photoaging and slow down aging.
RETINOIDS
These superheroes have a great ability to stimulate collagen production. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and help combat fine lines and wrinkles.
HYDRATE
Drink, drink, and drink! Make sure you consume appropriate levels of water throughout the day. This will keep your skin hydrated inside out. The skin when hydrated, fights sun damage in a better way.
ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants combat free radicals and help in the repair of the skin. Incorporate antioxidants like vitamin C in your skincare routine to fight signs of photoaging.
Basking in the sun is great, but only when done in moderation. A bit of precautionary measures and some post photodamage measures and you’re good to go!