Many individuals are concerned about sun damage. While the sun provides us with necessary vitamin D, excessive exposure can create various skin problems. If you spend too much time in the sun, you can develop sun damage, such as age spots and wrinkles. The correct protection may keep blemishes at bay while protecting against skin cancer. It can even aid in the healing of burnt skin. Consult a professional for sun damage Fort Worth to learn more. 

What is photoaging? 

The accelerated aging of your skin caused by persistent exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) and UVB rays is known as photoaging. Photodamage can occur due to exposure to UV radiation from artificial UV light sources (sun lamps or tanning beds) or the sun. 

UV exposure not only ages your skin prematurely, but it also increases your risk of skin cancer. Sun damage, dermatoheliosis, solar damage, and photodamage are all terms for photoaging.

Chronological skin aging vs. photoaging 

Chronological skin aging refers to your skin’s natural aging due to your age and heredity. It is unavoidable. A lifetime of UV radiation exposure, primarily from the sun, causes photoaging. Photoaging produces DNA alterations in skin cells, which can lead to cancer. Photoaging can be considerably decreased if safeguards are taken.

Tips for sun protection 

Here are some tips to help you protect your skin from sun damage. 

  • Use sunscreen 

One of the most essential things you can do to protect yourself from the sun is to use sunscreen. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and generously apply it to all exposed skin. Apply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. 

  • Your lips need protection, too. 

Your lips are just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your skin, so use a Chapstick or SPF lip balm daily. These products should also be reapplied after swimming or sweating. 

  • Check the UV index. 

Check the UV index for your location before spending time in the sun. The UV index is scaled from 0 to 11, with 0 being the lowest and 11 being the highest. The greater the number, the stronger the UV radiation.

  • Try not to spend too much time in the sun. 

Even if you apply sunscreen and stay in the shade, you should restrict your time in the sun. The easiest way to accomplish this is to avoid being outside during peak UV radiation hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

  • Know how to spot sun damage. 

It is critical to recognize the symptoms of sunburn so you can take action as soon as possible. Redness, discomfort, swelling, and blistering are among the symptoms. If you notice these symptoms, immediately remove yourself from the sun and provide cold compresses to the afflicted region.