What Really Is Sun Damage?

You hear us talk about sun damage, but do you know what it really is? Sun damage can show up in any number of ways: hyperpigmentation, fine lines, uneven texture, dullness, and dryness just to name a few. Damage from the sun is essentially cellular damage caused by UVA rays from the sun. UV rays cause free radicals to form in the body which are oxygen atoms with only one electron (versus the normal two electrons that they should have). This oxygen atom will then steal an electron from another oxygen atom, turning that one into a free radical as well. They keep going in this domino effect, ultimately leading to a breakdown in cellular DNA and weakened skin cells (hence all of the visible external changes we pointed out earlier).

How do you repair sun damage?

Sun damage causes a decrease in collagen production in your skin, so you’ll need to increase the amount of collagen in your skin to combat skin sagging and wrinkles. Vitamin C is a great ingredient that increases the amount of collagen in your skin, as well as assisting the enzymes that stabilize collagen molecules. Vitamin C can also lighten dark spots and brighten your face as it helps decrease excess melanin.

Sun-damaged skin is often dehydrated skin and vitamin C improves your skin’s barrier function, helping it hold onto moisture more effectively. Opt for Vitamin C rich moisturizers, serums, and oils morning and night to properly combat all the effects of sun damage.

How to Prevent Sun Damage

The best offense is a good defense. It’s always easier to avoid the effects of sun damage, rather than trying to recover your skin once it’s already damaged. To prevent further sun damage to your skin, apply a mineral sunscreen of at least SPF30, and reapply throughout the day (look for SPF powders that you can apply over your makeup). For your body, we suggest wearing Tutublue’s UPF50+ suits that will block out 98% of UV rays all day long, without any reapplications.