Post-Summer Skin: Why Skin Damage Appears After Your Summer Holiday
From summer glow to “Oh no!” The fun and frivolity of summer may be behind us, however, the effects may still be on our faces and skin.
Skin damage often appears as hyperpigmentation, discolouration, age spots, mottling and sagging skin. Although we know we have to apply sunscreen and cover up when we enjoy time outdoors, it’s all too tempting to ignore this advice just to get a little bit of colour on our cheeks.
A tan: The first sign of sun damage
At the first sign of UV exposure, the body produces melanin to shield the skin from further skin damage. In addition to increased pigmentation, the skin becomes thicker. The result? A tan. Although a great tan may still be the aspiration of some, once the tan has faded, what remains isn’t as envy-inducing. Once the skin from the thicker layers begins to slough away, what often remains includes areas of discolouration and hyperpigmentation.Skin mottling
Exposure to UV radiation stretches the capillaries located beneath the surface of the skin, creating a mottled, discoloured and patchy appearance.Age spots
Sun exposure creates age spots, or areas of darkened skin, anywhere on the body. These spots commonly occur in areas that receive extended periods of exposure, such as a face and hands. Although they’re commonly associated with people older than 50, age spots may also appear on younger people as well.
Sagging
As the epidermis thickens in response to UV radiation, collagen and elastin production breaks down. As you may remember from previous posts, collagen and elastin are essential for skin firmness. If your body isn’t producing as much, you can guess what happens. That’s right, saggy skin. When skin loses firmness and elasticity, wrinkles and lines become more prominent, making you appear older than you are.Precancerous pigmentation
This type of pigmentation is more than an annoyance, it could impact your overall health. See a dermatologist if you suspect any pigmentation might be cancerous.
How can you reverse skin damage?
The blogs over the next few weeks will explain the different types of pigmentation as well as offer solutions to address your skin concerns. From removing dead skin layers to reveal healthy skin to applying Vitamin A to stimulate collagen production, you’ll begin to reverse skin damage and reveal a healthier glow.
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