Sun damage is a dangerous and a regular threat to all. The sun is nearly impossible to avoid and therefore easy to become victim to. What can the sun do to negatively impact your skin? Investigations have discovered many damaging effects of sun exposure. These include wrinkles, spider veins, age spots, blotchy complexion and threats of skin cancer. We present the most common negatives of sun exposure and explain how they are caused by UV rays and well as how you can protect yourself from them. Be informed about the potential negatives of sun exposure so you can revitalize your skin now as well as protect it in the future.

How Does the Sun Damage Skin?

Studies have shown that UV reacts with your skin at its surface as well as below the surface. Visible damage appears in the shape of sunburn and freckles, but more destruction is being done than we can see. UV rays effect the skin below its surface as they make free radicals and cause the break down of collagen that later lead to wrinkles and possible skin cancer. The destruction of collagen is also associated with a build up of abnormal elastin. The sun's harmful rays create an enzyme that produces a incompetent type of collagen tissue. This continued process of faulty collagen restoration produces wrinkles. Sun exposure also produces free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that are forced to scavenge electrons which can damage cell process and alter genetic material possibly leading to cancer. Exposure to the sun also is harmful to pigment producing cells that can lead to effects such as age spots and discoloration. These reactions that occur under the skin'n surface create unwanted effects that are difficult to reverse.

How does the Sun Cause Wrinkles?

One of the most common effects of UV radiation is wrinkles. These become visible on the areas of your body that are most commonly exposed to the sun. The breakdown of collagen and creation of free radicals causes the appearance of both fine surface wrinkles as well as deep furrows. The protein that connects your skin tissues to make it firm and smooth are collagen proteins. Collagen deficiency can leave skin saggy and wrinkled. Unfortunately, collagen can not restore itself after it is damaged. Facial wrinkles are created in this manner up to 80 percent of the time.

How does the Sun Cause Age Spots?

Another effect of sun exposure is age spots. Our skin is able to protect itself from UV rays by using a melanin pigment that helps absorb sunlight. However, as we age, our skin loses its ability to fend off UV exposure and we see the development of age spots. This discoloration is the outcome of the sun's harm to our melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. Over time, UV radiation can cause more coloring than necessary to be accumulated in the skin. This creates flat, brown skin blemishes on your skin known as age spots.

How do you Protect Yourself From the Sun?

If possible, the most effective protection from the sun is to stay out of its rays when they are the strongest. If sun exposure is unavoidable, it is extremely important to apply sunscreen. This is important to do everyday, even if you have makeup that boasts sun protection. If you plan to be outdoors for a long time, make sure to reapply sunblock frequently. It is also important for you to know of any medications that you take that cause you to be more sensitive to sunlight. For those of you who are sensitive, it is a good idea to use sunscreen as well as other protectors, for example hats, glasses, and clothing that limit your skin's exposure to the sun. Take care of yourself by protecting your skin from future harms due to sun damage as well as addressing already visible signs of aging with natural skin care.