Sunlight feels so good. There’s something comforting about the warmth, brightness, and how it makes you feel. But your skin remembers the sun too, and not always in a good way.
Where do wrinkles come from? Why do you see dark spots in places they didn’t exist before? Why does the texture of your skin change over time? It’s all because of the way your skin reacts to UV rays.
Why Sun Exposure Ages the Skin?
There are two main types of UV rates you need to know about. While one type leads to burns the other can reach deeper into the sun and cause aging. Both damage DNA and break down collagen in the long run.
You don’t need to lay on a beach for hours and sun bathe to expose yourself. It can happen while you are driving, running errands, sitting by a window, or being outside on a cloudy morning. UV rays are constant even when they are invisible.
How to Protect Yourself
Start with sunscreen. We know its cliche, but SPF 30 really does help. Put it on 15 minutes before you go out and apply it generously. If you have used a small squeeze on your entire face let us tell you before it’s too late: that’s just not enough!
It is also important that you reapply sunscreen every couple of hours when you are outside for long periods. Don’t forget to cover up your ears, neck, the tops of your hands, and your scalp if your hair is thin.
If the sunscreen feels heavy try to invest in lighter textures. Experiment with gels, fluids, and mineral formulas till you find something that feels good enough for you.
You can also use extra protection like;
- A wide-brim hat that cuts down quite a lot of UV exposure.
- Sunglasses that protect the skin around your eyes.
- Clothing that has UPF built into the fabric giving your shoulders and chest a break on sunny days.
If you can avoid being in direct sunlight during late morning to mid afternoon trust us, your skin will thank you.
Helpful Ingredients That Protect Your Skin
Your skin has to deal with a lot daily. Sunlight is just the start. Have you ever thought about the havoc pollution and temperature changes wreak on your skin? Certain ingredients can help your skin breathe and recover. Here are just a few you can try out;
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a much-needed antioxidant which helps brighten dull areas as well as strengthen your skin’s line of defense. If you can use it consistently you will definitely notice the softening of uneven tones and an overall fresh and healthy appearance. It’s easy to use underneath sunscreen and an extra layer of protection against the UV rays.
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Retinoids
Retinoids are one of the most researched ingredients in skincare and they deserve all the attention. They provide a much-needed push for the skin to create collagen as well as renew itself quickly. Use this ingredient a few times a week first to observe if your skin can handle it.
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Niacinamid
This ingredient is both calming and supportive. It can help the skin hold onto moisture much better. You also experience less redness and inflammation. If you feel like you suffer from easily irritated skin this is your best pick.
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Hyaluronic Acid and Other Humectants
These hold onto water and can help the skin feel more hydrated and flexible. When your skin is hydrated enough, especially in dry climates, it looks smoother and more refreshed. Hydrated skin can also tolerate retinoids and active ingredients more comfortably.
These ingredients aren’t a replacement for sunscreen. Yet, they do strengthen it so that it can handle daily exposure in a much healthier way.
Myths to Clear Up
A lot of people think sunscreen is only necessary during the summer. UV exposure doesn’t take a backseat in any season. It’s there all year round, even on cloudier days, and even when you are inside your home.
Another common belief is that sunscreen is only for lighter tones. While melanin does offer some natural defense it doesn’t block all UV damage. Darker skin can still experience sun-related aging, not to mention hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.
Don’t think getting the highest number on the SPF bottle means you can apply it once and forget all about it. All sunscreens wear down over time, especially outdoors, so reapplying is the most important step.
To Sum it Up
Protecting your skin is easy if you are protected and prevention is always better than finding cures once the problem gets out of hand. If you want special advice that works for your unique skin type it is important to visit an Ostego dermatologist who can inspect your skin and advise you on ingredients that best suit it. Small habits don’t take much time but they surely help if you stay consistent. Start by adding a few supportive skincare ingredients and then build on it. Trust us, your skin will thank you in the future!