Protection from the sun is fundamental in effective skincare. Sunscreens and antioxidants play integral roles in shielding our skin from the adverse effects of ultraviolet (UV) light, providing immediate protection and long-term resilience against aging.
Damage induced by the sun is referred to as photoaging, photodamage, or sun damage. DNA changes at a cellular level occur when unprotected skin is exposed to UV light. This accelerates the aging process, contributing to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation irregularities. Photodamage happens in the deepest layers of the skin, the dermis, meaning it can take years before the damage becomes visible (Dale Wilson, 2012).
There are three types of UV light.
- UVA light (long wavelength): This form of solar radiation damages skin at all levels, from the epidermis down deep into the dermis. Within those layers, several parts of the skin are affected, including collagen and elastin fibers, which give the skin its youthful tautness and elasticity.
- UVB light (short wavelength): This type of solar radiation irradiates the outer layer of the skin causing damage to the DNA in the epidermis leading to photoaging and potentially precancerous cells to form.
- UVC light: This type of solar radiation is absorbed by the ozone layer and atmosphere, and as a result, it is not much of a health risk (Dale Wilson, 2012).
Sunscreen serves as a crucial barrier against the aging effects of prolonged sun exposure. However, when applied as recommended, sunscreen tends to reduce only 55% of free radical formation.
Antioxidants in combination with sunscreen can reduce greater amounts of free radicals than sunscreen alone. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and niacinamide provide additional benefits to sunscreen applications (Shanbhag, 2019). This combination ensures both immediate and long-term resilience for healthier, more youthful skin.
References: