Aging and the Sun

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation of the sun reaches the skin in two forms: UVA Rays and UVB Rays.  UVA Rays (also called aging rays) contribute 90% to 95% of the ultraviolet solar rays that reach the earth's surface.  These rays weaken the skin's collagen and elastin fibers, causing sagging and wrinkling.  As we become older, the elastin and collagen fibers of the skin naturally weaken. Adding the effects of the sun significantly accelerates the aging process.

Did you know that approximately 80% to 85% of our skin aging is caused by the sun? The greatest impact on how our skin ages is the sun and UV radiation.

UVB Rays (also called burning rays) are what give you a sunburn or suntan.  The darker skin color of a suntan is created by your body’s attempt to build a defense against excessive solar radiation.  After too much exposure to sunlight, your skin produces increased amounts of melanin.   Although melanin helps protect the skin from solar UV rays, when excessive, frequent doses of UV light penetrate your skin; this causes cell damage and destruction.  Even though UVB penetration is not as deep as UVA, the UVB rays are just as damaging to your skin.

While the effect of the sun exposure on our skin is an aging process, you can take the following precautions:

•    Avoid peak sun hours; solar UV intensity is highest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

•    Wear a sunblock of SPF 15 or better

•    Re-apply sunblock after swimming or activity that results in heavy perspiration.

•    Be sure your sunblock is a full or broad spectrum kind to filter both UVA and UVB solar rays.  Verify the expiration date to make sure it hasn't lost its potency.

•    Use a quality moisturizer daily and to help repair sun damage use an effective exfoliator.  This will help remove dead, dull, sun damaged skin, and reveal underlying healthy new cells. This builds collagen and helps reduce wrinkles and sagging. Be sure you always moisturize whether your skin is oily or dry. Deep hydration is one of the secrets of healthier and younger looking skin.

•    Perform routine checkups, both at home and at your dermatologist’s office. Look for any new growths or any growth that has changed in color, shape, or size. If you discover anything  suspicious, see your doctor for an examination. Sun damage related skin cancer is on the rise so be sure to check your skin on a regular basis.

While the effect of sun exposure is aging, the proper products and precautions can keep your skin looking younger and healthy. As the years go by, your skin will thank you.

The ingredients in Mango Madness Skin Care products are carefully formulated to help reverse the effects of sun damage on your skin. In particular, Hydrospherex 100% Hyaluronic Acid Serum,  Maximum Moisture™ Hyaluronic Acid Facial Moisturizer replaces lost moisture and is an excellent skin hydrator, and Peptide 6™ Anti-Aging Wrinkle Cream is an advanced formulation of 6 potent Peptides designed to eliminate or minimize wrinkles.