Years of spending time outdoors in the sun will take a toll on our skin. The hours and days we’ve logged exposed to the elements can show up in dark spots, wrinkles, sagging skin and discoloration. Unfortunately for sun worshippers, sun damage can prematurely age our skin and increase our risk of skin cancer. Read on for the most common signs and symptoms of sun damage on the face and body and to learn how to improve the appearance of your skin.
Signs & symptoms of sun damage | How to protect your skin from sun damage
Sun damage to the face: Signs and symptoms to look out for
Unlike typical chronological aging, which is determined by your age and genetics, sun damage occurs when UV light from the sun permanently changes the structure of the skin. Symptoms include:
Rough, dry skin texture
After many years of UV exposure, you may develop texture changes in the skin. This can look like scaly patches and crusted skin that is thicker in density and raised from the surface. According to American Academy of Dermatology Associationyou may spot deep lines or dry, scaly patches called actinic keratoses (AKs), which are precancerous skin growths. This type of sun damage can also lead to skin cancer, as AK sometimes turns into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Monitoring any changes in your skin and consulting a doctor will help you catch any potential skin cancers early.
Wrinkles & Fine Lines
Long-term changes in the skin’s collagen, which gives the skin its elasticity, can be a symptom of sun damage. These changes can include fine lines, wrinkles and thickened skin texture. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to UV rays prematurely ages your skin and results in collagen loss and skin elasticity. In fact, a surprising one 90% of visible aging caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays.
Relaxed, loose skin
Elastin and collagen are two proteins in the skin that deteriorate, not only due to the natural aging process, but also due to External factors over time. These factors include excessive sun exposure, as well as lifestyle choices such as poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. This breakdown of collagen and elastin production causes loose, loose skin.
Spider veins
As collagen deteriorates, the fragile collagen structure leads to reduced pressure around the blood vessels and reduced skin elasticity. This change means that spider veins are more likely to appear on the surface of the skin as a network of red, purple and blue lines reminiscent of a spider’s web.
A crimson complexion
It is possible for a ruddy complexion to be inherited. However, it can also be caused by too much sun exposure. Crimson skin is characterized by a reddish appearance and skin that looks uneven, blotchy, or has broken capillaries.
Hyperpigmentation
Uneven skin pigmentation (or hyperpigmentation) is a broad term that refers to uneven skin tone or the appearance of dark spots. With uneven skin tone, you’ll notice that parts of the skin are discolored or darkened, caused either by sun damage or genetics. Skin pigmentation can be categorized as either a raised lesion (papule or plaque) or a flat lesion (patch or macule).
Another type of hyperpigmentation can be seen in moles. Any abnormal change in your skin is a good reason to see a doctor to check for signs of skin cancer. A spot that was light in color when you first noticed it in your 30s can change in appearance later in life. Keep an eye on these dark spots and see your doctor if you notice any changes in color, texture, size, or shape.
Dark spots, also known as sun spots, liver spots or lenticular, are another type of hyperpigmentation. They look like very large freckles or flat brown spots. These form from chronic exposure to UV radiation and usually appear on the arms, legs, face, hands, neck and décolleté. This is different from skin pigmentation problems that occur when cells are damaged, reducing melanin production.
If you’ve noticed any of these skin problems, read on to learn how to protect your skin from further sun damage and improve your skin’s health.
How to protect your skin from sun damage
If you want to keep your skin glowing and healthy in the long run, below are six steps you can take to protect your skin.
1. Apply SPF every 2 hours
2. Limit time outdoors & Wear protective clothing
Limit your time outside when the sun is at its peak (generally from about 10am to 4pm in most parts of the US). The Skin Cancer Foundation says you should cover up with clothing, hats and sunscreen. You should also seek shade, especially when the sun is at its strongest.
3. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
If you recognize any of these symptoms of sun-damaged skin, the first step you can take is to put the brakes on any further damage. One of the most effective preventive formulas is sunscreen. By incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine, you prevent early signs of aging and other sun damage with minimal effort, so regularly use a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF (sun protection factor) value of 30 or higher. Read this guide to learn about the benefits of sunscreen and why you should wear it every day.
4. Look for “Broadband” on the label
While SPF measures how well a formula protects you from UVB rays, it won’t tell you anything about protection from UVA light. That’s why the second factor to look for in a sunscreen is a label that says “broad spectrum.” This label means you get protection from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are what you can blame for the signs of wrinkles and fine lines. In comparison, UVB rays are responsible for causing sunburn and skin cancer.
5. Choose an SPF with moisturizing ingredients
If you have dry skin due to sun exposure, specific ingredients will help restore moisture. Our Radiant Protection SPF Fluid, for example, has a hydrating, nourishing feel while helping to protect skin from the harsh effects of the sun. You can watch it below In The Mix video for a quick refresher on how to properly apply Radiant Protection SPF Fluid.
6. Check your body regularly
Every time you get out of the bath or shower, check your body from head to toe to familiarize yourself with your skin and identify if new spots appear. Watch the existing spots carefully as well, noting if their appearance changes in any way. A reminder that a change in size, shape, color, or outline is a red (or pink or brown) flag that should be checked by your doctor.
7. Use Products with Vitamins & Antioxidants
If you apply SPF and also use products with vitamins and antioxidants, you are actually protecting your skin from the sun. Consider vitamins C and E, along with SPF, as your skin’s ultimate shield against environmental elements! While SPF blocks UVA and UVB rays, the nutrients found in our serums, like Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum, protect your skin from dryness associated with environmental stressors. Rich in antioxidants from citrus fruits, leafy greens and avocado, this serum works perfectly with our SPF products to boost your skin’s defenses.
Are you experiencing signs of sun damage? View our range of sun care products to protect yourself from harmful UV rays or visit your nearest Eminence Spa for help in identifying and reversing skin damage.
