Aging Skin: What Causes It and How to Slow It Down
Our skin is one of the first things to show signs of aging. But did you know that most of those changes are due to sun exposure? While natural aging plays a role, ultraviolet (UV) light and visible light are the leading causes of wrinkles, age spots, and thinning skin.
What Happens When Your Skin Ages?
There are two types of aging:
- Chronological Aging: This happens naturally over time.
- Sun-Induced Aging (Photoaging): Caused by UV radiation, this is responsible for most visible signs of aging, like wrinkles and sunspots.
How Sunlight Affects Aging Skin
- UVB rays affect the skin’s surface, causing sunburns.
- UVA rays penetrate deeper, breaking down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
- Visible light can cause discoloration and dullness. Surprisingly, only tinted sunscreens protect against visible light damage!
How To Protect Your Skin
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day.
- Wear a hat, seek shade, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
- Consider treatments like microneedling or fillers to restore collagen and improve skin texture.
At Utah Valley Dermatology, we’re passionate about helping you protect and rejuvenate your skin. Book an appointment to learn how we can create a customized skincare plan for you!
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If you’re thinking about next steps, get in touch to schedule a consultation.
