Protect your skin from damaging elements
July 1, 2009
Photo-aging is the result of overexposure to damaging UV rays of the sun, and is the number one cause of a prematurely aged skin. Although tanned and bronzed skin is considered attractive, it is actually evidence that the skin has been damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Researchers now know that sun damage results in more visual signs of aging than the aging process itself. In addition to the visual changes to the skin such as sunburn, repeated sun exposure can result in severe injury to the epidermis.
It also causes chronic damage to the deeper skin layers and is known to contribute to the development of skin cancer. A factor in the development of wrinkles and premature aging is nicotine.
Both limit the skin’s oxygen supply, preventing the absorption of essential nutrients.
Your skin needs special attention during the summer months. We all know the risk of sun damage to our skin. Although a fresh tan always looks nice, there are several options available that can mimic the effects of the sun without exposing your delicate skin cells to the damaging sun rays.
The single most important thing you can do to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is to consistently apply sunscreen that contains an adequate level of sun protection factor (spf).
Since ultraviolet rays are present even during the winter months and on overcast days when the sun is not visible, it is important that sunscreen should be applied every day throughout the year.
It should be applied at least 20 minutes before going outside to ensure proper absorption.
In addition to sunscreen, there are many all natural supplements available at health food stores that can help guard against sun damage. Coenzyme-Q10 is an antioxidant that protects the skin from free-radical damage.
Supplements are available in pill form. Flavanoid supplements have been shown to slow the aging process and improve the resilience and flexibility of the skin.
A diet rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids, commonly found in flax and fish oil, help to maintain moisture levels from the inside out.
Found in nuts, seeds and wheat germ, Omega-6’s combine with Omega-3’s to reduce inflammation of the skin. Inflammation, if left untreated, results in accelerated aging.




























