Why sun protection is a skin care basic.

There is no denying that excessive sun exposure causes skin damage. So why is it that although we are all aware that daily sun protection can delay the skin’s aging process and the early onset of fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and in some cases cancer, we make little effort to practice it? Here we explain the harmful effects that the sun has on our skin:

How does the sun affect skin?

Sun exposure harms the skin through the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are two types of most concern: UVB causes redness on the surface of the skin (think B = burning); UVA penetrates deeper into the skin’s renewing layers causing DNA damage and destroying the natural substances that give the skin volume (think A = ageing).

Sun exposure = photo-ageing

Sun damage is believed to be responsible for almost 80% of the skin changes attributed to the ageing process (called photo-ageing), as well as causing certain skin disorders. Sun damage has a significant effect on skin volume production and is responsible for skin thickening, mottled pigmentation and wrinkling. Because of this, the most basic way you can maintain the health of your skin is to protect it from the sun.

Sun Damage

 What are the basics of sun protection?

  • Seek shade when the UV levels are at their strongest between 10 am and 3 pm, even on cool or cloudy days.
  • Wear clothing that covers as much of the skin as possible, as well as a broad-brimmed hat. Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect thedelicate eye area.
  • Use a good quality sunscreen that provides you with both UVA and UVB protection daily.
  • Be sure to regularly re-apply sunscreen throughout the day.

Treating sun damaged skin

There are a range of treatments available on the market that can help prevent photo-ageing or improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin. At Silkwood we offer a range of anti-wrinkle and cosmetic facial treatments which aim to refresh the appearance of the skin from sun damage. Laser resurfacing, FotoFacial™ IPL, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels are all popular methods for evening out skin tone and restoring skin texture.

Written by Maureen Cole — Dip BTh, ITEC, CIDESCO IFA, AABth

Maureen Cole is a paramedical aesthetician with more than 20 years of experience in the skincare industry. She has completed diplomas with ITEC and CIDESCO, as well as an Advanced Certificate in Beauty Therapy, a Certificate in Advanced Skin Analysis and a Certificate in Paramedical Aesthetics.

To find out more visit www.silkwoodmedical.com.au