Does the sun accentuate the signs of skin ageing?

Does the sun accentuate the signs of skin ageing? 

The sun is an essential source of life and well-being. But it also contributes significantly to premature aging of the skin, a phenomenon known as photoaging. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause significant damage to the skin, resulting in wrinkles and pigmentation spots. Fortunately, effective methods exist to protect your skin and mitigate 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 it comes to skin aging, it's 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 increases with age. The older you get, the more your skin shows signs of aging. It's a programmed process to which we are all subject over the years.

• Sun-induced skin aging: Known as "photo-induced aging or "actinic agingThis is premature aging. This type of aging is mainly caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, resulting in 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 is skin thickening: excess sunlight causes a phenomenon known as "solar elastosis" (or actinic), characterized by an accumulation of dysfunctional elastin fibers in the dermis. This gives the skin a thicker, more irregular, yellowish appearance.

Pigmentation spots also appear: UVB rays are mainly responsible for this phenomenon. They lead to increased melanin production, resulting 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 skin elasticity and firmness. This degradation accelerates skin ageing, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles before the usual age.

UVA rays are the main cause of wrinkles and skin ageing caused by the sun. They penetrate deep into the dermis and have a particular impact on essential fibrous proteins: elastin and collagen. 

Best practices to prevent aging : 

• Avoid prolonged exposure. 

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

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

• Fill 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. Complement your skincare routine with antioxidant cosmetics, such as our Tan Boost Oil, with its Karanja-enriched formula prepares the skin for the sun and prevents skin ageing linked to the harmful effects of UV rays, prolonging your tan and protecting your skin.