Did you know that increased sun exposure in summer changes the thickness of your skin? Indeed, under the effect of UV rays, the epidermis tends to thicken, you notice that your imperfections are fewer, that your skin is smoother but be careful, this natural reaction of the skin to the sun's aggressions is temporary. and it is not uncommon to struggle with imperfections in autumn, when the skin returns to its normal thickness.
Why does the epidermis thicken in summer?
Exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for coloring skin, hair and eyes. This is what gives us that famous tanned complexion so sought after. However, in addition to developing melanin to protect against the harmful effects of UV rays, the epidermis will also thicken. This reaction is an adaptive response because a thicker epidermis better absorbs and dissipates ultraviolet rays, reducing damage to deeper skin cells.
What are the consequences of this thickening?
The first days, you will see few changes in your skin, on the contrary, you may find that your skin has improved: the imperfections are fewer, the skin texture smoother, but after a few weeks this state of grace fades and the consequences of this thickening appear.
Indeed, a thicker epidermis is often accompanied by an increased accumulation of dead cells on the surface of the skin. These cells can clog pores and promote the appearance of blackheads, comedones and pimples which often rear their heads in early fall, when the skin begins to thin.
Furthermore, the accumulation of dead cells can make the complexion dull and less uniform and give your pretty tan a grayish appearance.
Finally, thickening of the dermis can slow down the natural cell renewal process and contribute to premature skin aging.
How can these effects be avoided or minimized?
Start by exfoliating your skin regularly: a gentle exfoliant with fruit acids , for example, will help eliminate excess dead cells for a fresher, more luminous complexion. Good hydration is also essential, use a moisturizing cream in the morning and evening and rely on active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid to maintain the suppleness of the skin and protect it against external aggressions.
Even if the sun has beneficial effects, it is essential to protect yourself to avoid skin damage. We cannot repeat this enough but using a sunscreen with an appropriate protection factor is crucial to avoid premature skin aging.
Finally, to avoid the accumulation of sebum, sun protection residue and dead cells, it is recommended to clean your face every day with a product adapted to your skin type and to carry out a double cleansing as soon as you feel the need.
