There’s a reason consultant dermatologists tell everyone that the best ‘anti-ageing secret’ is to wear sunscreen. It’s one of the best tools we have to protect our skin, and still many people skip the step in their routine.
Here’s exactly why sunscreen should be a top priority in your morning routines (every day!) — extending beyond purely cosmetic reasons.
Why sunscreen is important for skin ageing
The Skin Diary’s dermatologist Dr. Beibei Du-Harpur explains that there are three main reasons daily sunscreen is important for our skin health.
1. Prevention of sunburn episodes
The first is protecting the skin from UV rays and preventing sunburn. “[Sunburn episodes] is like creating a storm of DNA damage in the skin that is very high risk for causing skin cancer,” says Dr. Du-Harpur.
2. Prevention of cumulative DNA damage
Damage from sun exposure is cumulative and so is the DNA damage caused by it. “The gradual acquisition of DNA mutations that results in skin dysfunction and potentially skin cancer,” she explains.
3. Damage to collagen
Regular sun exposure without adequate protection increases a risk of damage to the skin’s collagen (which depletes as we age). “UV degrades collagen and reduces fibroblast's collagen-producing capabilities,” adds Dr. Du-Harpur.
Does sunscreen stop ageing
To put it simply: no, sunscreen will not stop ageing, however, it can help reduce our exposure to UV damage.
Skin ageing occurs as part of organismal biological ageing. “Organismal biological ageing is an areas of ongoing research; genetics and holistic lifestyle factors (most importantly diet and exercise) both play a key role in the expected healthspan and lifespan of an individual,” explains Dr. Du-Harpur. However, skin is the most accessible organ in the human body, with a well-characterised age-accelerating exposure. “We, therefore, have really powerful tools to control our exposure, and minimise its impact. Therefore, sunscreen is a powerful tool for optimising skin ageing and skin healthspan.”
UVA and UVB sun protection
Making sure you have adequate protection is also key. To get the best possible protection, look for good UVA protection as well as UVB.
UVA has a longer wavelength, higher penetrative ability and therefore causes more damage to fibroblasts and collagen, resulting in oxidative stress within the dermis.
UVB has a shorter wavelength, causes DNA damage at the epidermis and the keratinocytes (skin cells).
Top tips for choosing a sunscreen
The best advice for choosing a sunscreen is first making sure it’s broad spectrum, meaning it has UVA and UVB protection. The next is finding a sunscreen that you'll actually use. “Finding an enjoyable formulation that suits your skin is essential,” says Dr. Du-Harpur.
