Aging, the Sun and Skin Damage

Aging, the Sun and Skin Damage go hand in hand. With Spring Break upon us, it may be the first time we are out in UV rays for the season. Over the winter, we shed old skin and lose the pigment changes that happened with last year’s tan. Spending time in the sun feels good; its full of Vitamin D, so it is good for you, but it can be harmful to your skin. Over time, it can even cause a cancer called Melanoma.

Because the sun emits ultraviolet (UV) light, which damages your skin and produces sunburn. These rays can cause wrinkles, age spots, and other problems over time. As a result, you can add years to your appearance. According to studies, UV exposure is responsible for 80% of skin aging. (AAD, 2022)

Is it possible to turn back the clock? Thankfully, scientists are discovering how to undo some of the sun’s effects. Although it is impossible to undo all of the harm, there are certain steps you can take to address the problem of aging, the sun and skin damage.

In this article, learn more about how sunburn can affect a person, what to do if it happens when to seek medical help, and how to help prevent sunburn

Sunburn Signs and Symptoms

According to a recent study, sunburn is caused by inflammation, which causes erythema (a rash) and edema (swelling) causing fluid buildup. It also causes alterations in skin cells. The growth of these sunburn cells, can turn malignant, as well as a decrease in mast cells, which help the immune system. (Health, 2023)

Sunburn symptoms differ from person to person. Anybody can get sunburned, but those with lighter skin are more vulnerable. After being exposed, the skin may become:

  • Hot
  • Sensitive to the touch
  • Painful
  • Irritated
  • Itchy
  • Blistered

Light skin may get crimson. Darker skin may darken with time.

Severe sunburn symptoms can impact the entire body. They are as follows:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • A general feeling of being unwell

A person suffering from severe sunburn may require medical assistance. Heat exhaustion or, more seriously, heatstroke can develop in extreme cases. If a person has any of the following symptoms, they should seek emergency medical attention:

  • Low blood pressure
  • Fainting and dizziness
  • Rapid pulse
  • General pain throughout the body
  • Extreme weakness
  • Shallow breathing
  • Changes in behavior, such as irritability, confusion, difficulty thinking, or hallucinations

Heat exhaustion is diagnosed by a doctor when the core body temperature rises over normal after sun exposure but does not exceed 104°F (40°C). The core body temperature of a person suffering from heatstroke will be higher than 104°F (40°C). Heatstroke is a potentially fatal illness that requires immediate medical intervention. (WebMD, 2022)

 

Timeline – Sunburn can cause the following symptoms:

  • A rash typically develops 2-6 hours after exposure.
  • Skin symptoms peak between 12 and 24 hours following exposure.
  • After 4-7 days, the skin peels and flakes off.

Sun Protection Precautions

Regardless of age, countless women (and men) continually cope with the long-term impacts of unprotected sun exposure. Generally, apply sunscreen to your face and neck before leaving the house. It doesn’t matter if you’re going to the beach or the office; small amounts of unprotected sun exposure go a long way.

Use sunscreen every day. That will transform your life. Hats, sunglasses, and remaining in the shade all assist in limiting your sun exposure and delay the early signs of UV damage. If you are worried about further sun damage and need a consultation, book an appointment with us today.

Treatment for Aging Skin

Besides protecting your skin while in the sun with sunscreen, there are popular treatments available such as laser treatments.

An IPL (Intense Pulse Light) treatment every 6 – 12 months as part of your skin care regimen can also boost collagen production, which is another anti-aging agent for both men and women. Intense pulsed light therapy is a simple treatment that gives patients dramatic results.

As we age, sun spots and other irregularities begin to appear. IPL treatments can give your skin a fresh, new start. Even younger adults can get a jump-start on taking care of their skin with IPL therapy. At GTFCC , this innovative technology is available to both men and women who want to revitalize their appearance and enjoy healthier-looking skin. If you are ready to hit the reset button on your face, shoulders, neck, and hands, IPL therapy may be the right solution for you.

If you are interested in IPL treatments, we invite you to schedule a consultation today. Just give our office a call at (409) 735-7305

Have fun in the sun! But don’t forget to take care of and protect your biggest asset – your skin.

Works Cited

“How to Treat Sunburn.” American Academy of Dermatology, 2022, www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-sunburn

Brickell, Susan. “How to Treat and Prevent Sun-Damaged Skin.” Health, Health, 27 Feb. 2023, www.health.com/beauty/anti-aging-skincare-for-sun-damage

“Sun Damaged Skin: Sunburn, Melanoma, Carcinoma, and More.” WebMD, WebMD, 2023, www.webmd.com/melanoma-skin-cancer/ss/slideshow-sun-damaged-skin

“Sunburn: Treatments, Home Remedies, and Prevention.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, Dec. 2022, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/176441