Understanding UV Sun Damage and How to Protect Your Skin

At Glow Aesthetics by Dora, we prioritise patient safety and skin health above all else. As summer approaches, it’s vital to understand the long-term effects of UV sun damage—not just for aesthetic reasons, but to safeguard your overall skin health.

What Is UV Sun Damage?

UV sun damage occurs when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. There are two main types of UV rays that affect the skin:

• UVA rays: These penetrate deep into the skin and are responsible for premature ageing, such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity.

• UVB rays: These affect the surface layers and are the main cause of sunburn. Overexposure can also lead to DNA damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.

  
  

Unfortunately, both UVA and UVB rays can harm your skin even on cloudy days or through windows, making year-round protection essential.

What Does Sun Damage Look Like on Your Skin?

One of the most common questions we hear at Glow Aesthetics is: what does sun damage look like on your skin? Signs can vary, but common symptoms include:

• Uneven skin tone or pigmentation

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Rough or leathery texture

• Dark spots or sunspots (also called solar lentigines)

• Redness or visible blood vessels (telangiectasia)

• A dull, lacklustre complexion

These visible signs of UV sun damage are often more than skin deep, affecting the overall health and function of your skin. While some symptoms may seem purely cosmetic, they can be early indicators of more serious concerns.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention is always better than cure. We recommend:

• Wearing broad-spectrum SPF 40 or higher daily—even in winter.

• Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.

• Wearing protective clothing and avoiding peak sun hours.

• Incorporating antioxidants like Vitamin C into your skincare routine.

  
  

At Glow Aesthetics by Dora, we offer advanced treatments to address the effects of sun damage while always prioritising patient safety. Our tailored skin treatments, including microneedling and chemical peels, can help restore clarity, tone and texture. Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Dora Aaron, brings clinical expertise and a patient-centred approach to ensure every treatment is safe, effective and tailored to your skin’s unique needs.

Final Thoughts

Understanding and preventing UV sun damage is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. If you’re wondering what does sun damage look like on your skin, or if you’re seeing any of the signs mentioned above, we’re here to help. Book a personalised consultation with Dora today to assess your skin and find the most suitable, safe treatment options.

If you are struggling with the signs of sun damage and need further advice, please book an initial consultation now!

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