great OUTDOORS By Michelle Reid, Somme Institute
Here Comes the Sun … Damage
As the weather warms up and you spend more time outside, practice sound skin protection habits
IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO STOP the natural aging process, but it is possible to delay it. Unfortunately, some age-related changes in our facial appearance are unavoidable and partially due to genetics and the passage of time. However, the greatest cause of the visible signs of aging is directly linked to environmental sources and is preventable. Sun exposure is one of the most avoidable causes of wrinkling, skin discoloration, laxity and, most importantly, skin cancer. It is well established that exposure to the sun’s UV rays is a universal threat to healthy skin. Long-wave UVA and midrange UVB are the rays responsible for premature photo aging, immune dysfunction and some skin cancers. UVB rays are thought to be responsible for the majority of UV-related negative effects on the skin. UV radiation stimulates an increase in free radicals that attack collagen and elastin, the substances
36 |
gp MAGAZINE | V1N2
that keep our skin moist, smooth, flexible and elastic. These vital tissues fray and break under the assaults of free radicals, a process particularly noticeable in the face where folds of skin and deep- cut wrinkles are testaments to the effect of long-term free radical damage. UV exposure also reduces the natural antioxidant defense system in the skin, making it more susceptible to the free radical onslaught. Wrinkling, laxity, enlargement of pores, loss of elasticity, hyper-pigmentation and visible broken capillaries are all common as a direct result of UV exposure. Not only does exposure to UV radiation cause the signs of premature aging it could also lead to skin cancer. Both the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organization have identified UV as a proven human carcinogen. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma
