Why the Sun Causes Premature Skin Ageing

At Nakin we are in the business of helping skin to look as good as it can naturally, with our natural anti-ageing skincare range. We believe that it is really beneficial to cleanse our skin with high quality natural anti-ageing products like ours in order to keep skin clear, fresh, hydrated and youthful looking. However, even carrying out the best skincare routine like ours cannot completely fight off the damaging effects that the sun can have on our skin. It’s usually the main cause of premature ageing on all of our skin, and so it is important to use good daily sun protection when skin is exposed to it. It seems strange that something that we love, and that is so natural and beautiful can do so much damage.

Let’s look at the science of sun damage to understanding why it causes premature skin ageing. We all know how damaging the sun can be to our skin, but do you know exactly why it causes premature ageing? The science behind sun damage is complex, but understanding it is essential if you want to protect your skin and prevent ageing. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of UV rays, free radicals, and skin ageing, so you can take action to protect your skin and keep it looking youthful for years to come.

Firstly, it’s important to understand the role of UV rays in causing premature ageing. The sun emits two types of harmful UV rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and can cause lasting damage to collagen, elastin, and DNA. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can also cause damage to DNA. Both types of UV rays cause the production of free radicals in the skin, which can damage cells and accelerate the ageing process.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that are produced by the body in response to UV exposure. They are highly unstable and can damage cells and DNA, causing premature ageing. Antioxidants are powerful molecules that can neutralise free radicals and prevent them from causing damage, this is why we include them in skincare. However, when we are exposed to high levels of UV radiation, our body’s natural antioxidant defences can become overwhelmed, leading to premature ageing.

Another factor in sun damage and premature ageing is the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its strength and elasticity, while elastin is responsible for skin’s ability to snap back into place. When UV rays damage collagen and elastin, the skin loses firmness and elasticity, leading to wrinkles and sagging.

Finally, sun damage can also lead to the development of dark spots and uneven skin tone. When skin is exposed to UV radiation, it produces excess melanin, which can lead to hyperpigmentation. This can cause dark spots and patches on the skin, which can be difficult to treat.

The science of sun damage is complex, but the effects of UV radiation on the skin are clear. UV rays can cause long-lasting damage to skin cells, leading to premature ageing, wrinkles, and sagging. By understanding the mechanisms behind sun damage, you can take action to protect your skin and prevent ageing. Wear sunscreen, seek shade during peak UV hours, and incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine to neutralise free radicals and protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your skin looking youthful and healthy for years to come.