Getting out in the sun is great for our well-being, aiding vitamin D synthesis and uplifting our mood. However, prolonged and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to significant skin damage.
Sun damage can manifest in various ways, from fine lines and uneven skin tone, to more serious issues like skin cancer. Recognizing the signs of sun-damage and building a regimen focused on prevention is crucial for maintaining healthy-looking skin.
In this guide, we’ll identify the key signs of sun damage, highlight effective treatments for related skin concerns, and explore strategies to help prevent future UV skin damage.
Sun damaged skin results from prolonged, unprotected exposure to the UV radiation emitted by the sun. This exposure may accelerate the natural aging process, leading to superficial and structural changes in the skin, and a noticeable difference in your skin’s appearance.
It’s important to watch for the following signs, which may point to sun-damaged skin on your face or body.
These superficial changes often serve as early indicators of sun-damaged skin and include:
Spending too much unprotected time in the sun can gradually break down collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, which reduces skin elasticity. Over time, this can affect the skin’s structure and contribute to visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging.
Commonly known as “sun spots" or "age spots," solar lentigines are light brown patches that appear on sun-exposed areas like the face and hands. They result from increased melanin production due to UV radiation.
UV radiation can damage your skin barrier, causing frequently exposed skin to lose moisture faster than other areas. As a result, sun damaged skin can appear dry, flaky and prematurely wrinkled.
Prolonged UV exposure can lead to dark spots or patches, creating uneven skin tone. This is often more pronounced on the face, hands, and arms, which typically get more sun exposure than the rest of the body.
Increased sun exposure can cause new freckles or moles to appear, or existing ones to change in size, shape, or color. It's essential to monitor these changes, as they can be early indicators of skin cancer, and consult with a doctor if necessary.
Beyond the visible surface signs, excess sun exposure can contribute to changes within the skin and compromise the skin's integrity. These structural changes can lead to the superficial issues above and have also been linked to higher incidences of skin cancer. It’s important to monitor your skin for changes and consult with a doctor if necessary.
By taking a few preventative measures, you can help minimise the effects of sun-damage and help maintain healthy-looking skin.
Adding a sunscreen to your daily skincare regimen is one of the most important defenses against UV damage. The Ordinary's UV Filters SPF 45 Serum offers broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection with a PA++++ rating, which helps protect against UVA and UVB rays.
This lightweight formulation provides instant and all-day hydration,
leaving a natural-looking glow and no white cast. Its serum texture goes on
smoothly, allowing for easy layering
with other products in your regimen.
Covering your arms, shoulders, and legs when you’re in the sun can help protect against harmful UV radiation. Consider adding lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts to your warm-weather wardrobe, and incorporating accessories like wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses to further protect your skin from direct sunlight.
Limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours can help reduce the risk of skin damage. During these times, the sun's rays are strongest, increasing the likelihood of excess UV exposure.
Artificial sources of UV radiation, such as tanning beds, can cause similar or even greater skin damage compared to natural sunlight. Additionally, tanning beds have been shown to contribute to signs of ageing like wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging.
A regimen for UV-damaged skin should contain formulations that address existing signs of damage, promote skin renewal and barrier support, and help protect your skin from future sun damage.
Cleanse your skin with our Squalane Cleanser or Glycolipid Cream Cleanser. These gentle, non-stripping cleansers effectively remove makeup, dirt, and impurities while supporting the skin’s moisture barrier through hydration.
With a multi-targeted approach, you can address signs of sun damage like dark spots, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging.
Our Uneven
Skin Tone Collection is formulated with key ingredients to brighten,
and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. This collection also
provides antioxidant and skin barrier support. The products can be layered
together or used separately.
When used together, the following
formulations help reduce visible signs of aging and restore your
skin’s radiance:
GF 15% Solution A lightweight serum that helps minimize and repair visible skin damage.
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion This high-strength retinoid rapidly firms and smooths skin while reducing the appearance of dark spots. Because retinal may make skin more sensitive to the sun, using a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended.
Peptides A variety of targeted molecules help improve the look of multiple skin concerns, particularly signs of aging.
These formulations can be layered together, but should be used separately from products in the Uneven Skin Tone Collection.
In the AM, apply UV Filters SPF 45 Serum as the final step to hydrate and help protect your skin from UV radiation.
In the PM, finish with Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier.
This skincare regimen combines cleansing, targeted treatment, hydration, and sun protection to effectively address signs of skin damage and aging related to sun exposure, and help prevent future UV damage to your skin.
Use our personalized Regimen Builder and get tailored product recommendations that address your unique skin concerns, including sun damage.
