Warm, fuzzy afternoons with snacks bring back childhood memories of fun and carefree days. Alongside these memories are signs of photodamage often noticed in the elderly members of the family.
Photoaging is caused by chronic exposure to UV radiation; it is a preventable cause of ageing.
Is photoaging caused only by the sun? The sun is the richest source of UV radiation, a culprit for photoaging. Our phones, laptops, tablets, and fancy lighting are also candidates on the list.
Where is sun damage most visible? It most commonly occurs in the exposed parts of the body, such as the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands.
What are the signs of photoaging?
1.Uneven skin tone leading to patchy pigmentation.
Lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth due to loss of elasticity.
Forehead lines due to collagen breakdown.
Sunburn with pink, painful red blisters.
Blood vessels can be bruised, appearing as visible thin lines under the skin.
Hyperpigmentation spots, brown ageing spots, and freckles can be seen in all exposed parts of the body.
UV radiation can trigger melanocytes and stimulate the formation of new moles.
How to prevent sun damage?
Wear sun-protective clothing with full sleeves and try to avoid the sun during peak hours from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
The holy grail of sun protection is sunscreen application. We need broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB. Sunscreen should contain active ingredients like Uvinul T150 and Avobenzone for better shielding effects.
Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if you have constant sun exposure associated with sweating.
4.Don’t forget the eyelids, ears, and neck when applying sunscreen.
Carry additional tools like umbrellas and sunglasses to prevent direct exposure.
Is sunlight a good source of vitamin D?
Limited sun exposure during childhood does have some benefits, but chronic exposure as adults can only contribute to degenerative changes in the skin. As adults, we should focus on consuming foods rich in vitamin D and antioxidants.
Do we need sunscreen indoors?
While indoors, natural light contains a substantial amount of UVA and UVB radiation, which can have a damaging effect in the long run. Hence, the application of sunscreen indoors is mandated. Moreover, while indoors, people are often working on gadgets that emit radiation that can damage the skin.
Do we need sunscreen on a cloudy day? On a cloudy day, the sun is hidden behind the clouds but not absent. If we can feel the natural light, UV radiation is present, making sun protection mandatory to prevent photoaging.
Sun protection is everything. Don’t leave the house without SPF… The three ultimates of adulting: LIVE, LAUGH, WEAR SUNSCREEN…