The emphasis on sun protection has greatly increased within the past few years.
You’ve most likely heard someone on social media telling you to wear sunscreen every single day.
While this is very good advice, why is sun protection so important?
The answer is free radicals.
What Are Free Radicals?
Free radicals are unstable molecules formed when a chemical change occurs within a cell.
These molecules have an unpaired electron and can therefore interact with other molecules in a process called oxidation.
This process can damage cells and their DNA.
Where Do Free Radicals Come From?
Free radicals can occur from natural metabolic processes in our body, however, they more often come from outside sources.
Outside sources such as smoking, pollution, toxins and most importantly sun exposure.
UV radiation causes free radicals to form and can contribute up to 80% of the damage done to your skin.
What Are The Effects Of Free Radicals?
Free radicals lead to cellular damage and a phenomenon known as oxidative stress.
Our body’s antioxidant defence system can counteract harmful free radicals however if there are too many of these molecules then cell damage and cell death will still occur.
Our defence system against free radicals also decreases as we age leading to more damage.
This leads to an increased risk of skin cancer as well as a loss of collagen causing fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration, and hyperpigmentation.
Free radicals can also contribute to skin concerns such as dullness, inflammation, worsening acne, and rosacea.
How To Prevent Free Radical Damage?
Reducing sun exposure is the most effective way to do this.
Applying sunscreen every day and reapplying as needed is an excellent way to protect your skin.
Avoid long sun exposure and cover up when you can.
Antioxidants help to stabilise free radicals so using topical antioxidants in the morning such as vitamin C, E, zinc, and copper can reduce skin damage throughout the day.
Including more antioxidants in your diet can also help.
This can be achieved through supplements or fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, artichokes and kale.
Other ingredients such as niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can help the skin recover from oxidative stress.
Retinoids can help boost collagen production reducing the effects of aging on the skin and exfoliating acids can help brighten the skin.
Retinoids and exfoliating acids should be used less frequently than other products as they are strong active ingredients.
Will you be incorporating more sun protection into your routine? Let us know!
