Let's Slip, Slop, Slap! Protect Your Skin from Sun

Summer’s here, and it’s got us dreaming of vacations, beach days, and soaking up the sun. While that sun-kissed glow feels great, it’s important to remember that too much sun without the right protection can lead to premature aging. Sun damage, known as photoaging, can cause a bunch of skin issues and speed up the aging process. In this blog, we’ll break down what photoaging is and share some easy tips to keep your skin safe during those sunny days.
The sun gives off different types of rays, each affecting the skin in different ways. UV (Ultraviolet) light is the main culprit behind about 90% of photoaging. UVB rays are shorter and mostly hit the outer layer of your skin, causing sunburns and redness. UVA rays, with their longer wavelength, penetrate deeper into the skin and break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles. They can also damage skin cell DNA, which ups the risk of skin cancer like melanoma.
But that’s not all—infrared light and HEV (high energy visible) blue light from things like screens and the sun can also contribute to skin damage and aging by causing oxidative stress.
The signs of photoaging can be pretty noticeable, including brown patches (melasma), precancerous sun spots, broken blood vessels, deep wrinkles, and a dull, uneven skin tone. These issues can really take a toll on your appearance and make you look older than you are.
To protect your skin from photoaging, here are some simple steps you can take:
- Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to guard against both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to slather it on generously and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Go for lightweight, sun-protective clothes that cover your skin. A wide-brimmed hat is also a great way to protect your face, neck, and ears.
- Put on Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Seek Shade: Take breaks from direct sunlight by hanging out under umbrellas, trees, or canopies to reduce your overall sun exposure and give your skin a break.
So, while it’s tempting to soak up every bit of summer sun, remember to keep your skin’s health in check. By following a Slip, Slop, Slap approach—sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats—you can help fend off premature aging and enjoy the sunny season responsibly.
Disclaimer: The content above is provided for informational purposes only. It doesn't imply any therapeutic effects and it should not be taken as professional medical advice.