PREMATURE AGING OF THE SKIN

The sun’s rays have the immediate effect of drying out the skin. Overexposure can sometimes lead to loss of moisture and elasticity, making lines, wrinkles and sagging suddenly seem more apparent.

However, in the long-term, it is the aging of the skin that is most concerning. When individuals expose their skin to the sun frequently or for long periods of time, their skin ages faster. This can be explained, among other things, by the fact that ultraviolet rays damage skin cells by altering their membrane and by destroying their DNA chain.

The appearance of age spots (or dark spots) is directly linked to exposure to ultraviolet rays and causes esthetic concerns for many people, especially women. The spots are the result of the hyperproduction of melanin. These often stubborn spots accumulate over time. Effective sun protection helps to prevent this problem.

SKIN CANCER 

A connection between sun exposure and skin cancer has been clearly demonstrated. The more a person has been exposed to the sun during his/her lifetime, the higher the risk of developing skin cancer.

Some skin cancers are relatively easy to treat and heal, while others are more serious and have a grimmer prognosis, especially if they are not detected early. Adequate sun protection throughout one’s life, especially during childhood and adolescence, significantly helps to reduce the risks of skin cancer.

SUN PROTECTION

In order to counter the harmful effects of the sun, nothing works better than to apply strict measures to provide season long protection starting at a young age and throughout one’s lifetime.

Limiting sun exposure as much as possible is certainly an effective protection measure. However, when contact with the sun is unavoidable or intended, the application of an effective, quality sunscreen is crucial. Opt for a formulation that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more and that is suitable for your skin type.