Reverse the Effects of Sun Damage on Skin

While research has shown that there are two categories of aging-aging caused by our genes and aging caused by environmental factors, such as exposure to sun rays-it is estimated that 90% of the signs of aging are actually cause by the sun, not the passage of time.

Aging caused by genes, also called intrinsic aging, generally begins in our mid-20s and is a continuous process. The production of collagen slows and the turnover of new skin cells decreases slightly. Other signs of intrinsic aging include fine lines, wrinkles, dry and itchy skin, and thinning skin.

Of all the causes of aging by environmental factors, most premature aging is caused by exposure to the sun. Visible signs of sun damage include age spots, freckles, and melasma on the surface of the skin. But changes beneath the skin's surface, what we don't see, can also rob the skin of its vibrancy. Dull shadows on the skin's surface are indicators of darkness under the skin.

Without providing the skin with protection from the sun rays, a few minutes of exposure each day over years can result in very noticeable changes to the skin's appearance and health. While the process of intrinsic aging cannot be stopped or slowed down, signs of premature aging can be prevented by protecting the skin from sun exposure.

Avoiding direct sunlight by wearing protective clothing and by applying sun screen year round, can help to prevent sun damage. But what about the effects of sun damage already visible on skin, such as age spots, freckles, and melasma?

One new company offers hope. The creators of Proactiv® Solution acne treatment, Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields, are also the founders of Rodan and Fields Dermatologists (www.roz.myrandf.com). What they did for acne, they are now doing for sun damage. Their product line, Reverse Regimen, is designed to treat environmental aging and restore clarity and vibrancy to help achieve radiant, even skin tone. This product line helps treat brown discolorations, liver spots, and dull and uneven skin tone resulting from hormones, sun damage, and post acne dark marks. Clinically proven to produce results, these products are a breakthrough in skincare.

Other treatments for sun damage, though relatively expensive, include laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, chemical peeling, and microdermabrasion. While these treatments can be very effective, price and side affects often make them unattainable for many skin types.

The bottom line? It is important to protect your skin and take care of your skin, minimizing exposure to sun rays, in order to slow the signs of aging. Properly treating the skin once signs of aging appear will help to keep your skin vibrant and healthy.

Sources:

[1] Aging Skin Net, American Academy of Dermatology

[2] Rodan + Fields Dermatologists, www.roz.myrandf.com