Does the sun accentuate the signs of skin aging?

Does the sun accentuate the signs of skin aging?

The sun is an essential source of life and well-being. But it also contributes significantly to premature skin aging, a phenomenon called photoaging. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause significant damage to the skin, leading to wrinkles and pigmentation spots. Fortunately, effective methods exist to protect your skin and reduce these effects. We share with you the essential information you need to know.

The sun: Understanding its impact on skin aging

Did you know? When talking about skin aging, it is important to distinguish between two distinct types. Each of these types has different causes and visible signs but can combine and coexist on your skin:

• Physiological skin aging: This type of aging is natural and becomes more pronounced with age. The older you get, the more your skin shows signs of aging. It is a programmed process that we all undergo over the years.

• Sun-induced skin aging: Known as “photo-induced aging” or “actinic aging ,” this is premature aging. This type of aging is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, leading to wrinkles and other signs of aging that appear earlier, but are largely preventable.

What are the visible signs of aging?

The signs left by actinic aging are often more marked and profound than those of physiological aging. Among the main visible signs, we find thickening of the skin: excess sun causes a phenomenon called "solar elastosis" (or actinic), characterized by an accumulation of dysfunctional elastin fibers in the dermis. This gives the skin a thicker, irregular and yellowish appearance.

We also observe the appearance of pigment spots: UVB rays are mainly responsible for this phenomenon. They cause an increased production of melanin, which results in uneven pigmentation with brown or white spots.

Finally, the sun contributes to the creation of premature wrinkles. UV rays degrade collagen and elastin, fibers essential to the elasticity and firmness of the skin. This degradation accelerates skin aging, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines before the usual age.

UVA rays are the main cause of wrinkles and skin aging caused by the sun. They penetrate deep into the dermis and particularly impact the essential fibrous proteins: elastin and collagen.

Best practices to prevent aging:

• Avoid prolonged exposure.

• Protect yourself daily with sun protection (SPF) adapted to your phototype. Reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day.

• Limit aggravating factors such as tobacco, alcohol, etc. Lifestyle is the main cause of premature aging of the skin.

• Stock up on antioxidants: Antioxidants fight free radicals and slow down cell oxidation. They are present in a diet rich in vitamins A, C, E, flavonoids, zinc and selenium. Also complete your skincare with antioxidant cosmetic products, such as our Tan Boost Oil , with its formula enriched with Karanja prepares the skin for the sun and prevents skin aging linked to the harmful effects of UV rays, prolongs your tan and protects your skin.