Sun damage can be detrimental to the health and appearance of your skin anywhere on your body, but it can be especially problematic in delicate areas like your neck, chest and décolletage. In these areas, your skin is thinner, making it more susceptible to signs of sun damage, such as redness, flaking, dark spots and wrinkles.
Take a look at these tips to prevent and treat sun damage to avoid signs of sun damage and premature aging.
Wear Daily Sunscreen
Wearing SPF 30 or higher every day is the best way to prevent sun damage and premature skin aging. Choose a higher SPF if you plan to be outdoors for long periods of time, and don’t forget to reapply at least every 2 hours or after swimming.
It is best to use a sunscreen that is separate from concealer or foundation, as many people do not apply enough of these cosmetic products to get the full SPF protection listed on the bottle. This may provide a false sense of security that your skin is adequately protected when it is not.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
Another easy way to prevent sun damage is to wear sun-protective clothing while at the beach, pool or during other outdoor activities. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses help to protect your face from the sun’s UV rays. Additionally, many apparel companies now make lightweight UV-protecting clothing and swimwear that covers your chest, arms or legs. These can be great options for anyone at an increased risk of skin cancer or while out on a boat or other outdoor activity for several hours at a time.
Try Proven Anti-Aging Skincare Ingredients
Signs of sun damage tend to show up on the skin after accumulated UV exposure — so while you might be diligent about sun protection now, you may still see signs of sun damage from previous unprotected exposures to the sun. Some of the most common signs of sun damage include uneven skin tone and texture, redness, broken capillaries and premature wrinkles and sagging skin.
There are a number of proven anti-aging skincare ingredients that can help to diminish these symptoms and restore healthier-looking skin. Skin-brightening ingredients like vitamin C, hydroquinone and kojic acid can improve dark spots and uneven skin tone. Retinoids can also improve dyspigmentation while simultaneously stimulating collagen for improved skin texture.
Ask Your Dermatologist about Laser Treatments
Laser and light treatments can improve the appearance of dark spots, redness, broken blood vessels and other similar concerns. A wide range of laser skin treatments is available, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, goals and unique skin type. One popular treatment used for sun damage is IPL. IPL treatments effectively target brown spots and stimulate collagen resulting in more youthful, even toned skin.
Non-surgical skin tightening devices such as Exilis can also be used to improve sagging skin. Exilis uses controlled radiofrequency energy to gently heat the skin, promoting collagen restructuring and production and thus tightening loose skin and improving the appearance of wrinkles and creases.
Dr. Noll is a board certified dermatologist in Davis, CA specializing in all aspects of skin care. She is committed to providing quality, individualized, and up to date healthcare to her patients. She is professionally trained and experienced in treating the spectrum of skin disorders, and in performing both skin surgeries and cosmetic procedures.
