The Summer Sun and its Effects on Your Skin

The Summer Sun and its Effects on Your Skin | Dr. Shaun Parson, Scottsdale

The Summer Sun and its Effects on Your Skin

We at Parson Skin Center understand there’s something about the sun’s beaming rays. The penetrating heat, the glistening glow. It’s as if the sun can recharge our battery of some sort. In a way, it sort of can with vitamin D. But putting that positive aside, the sun can be detrimental to your skin. The sun’s UV rays are responsible for about 80 percent of all external skin aging. If you aren’t ready to give up the sun’s rays just yet, here are some things to keep in mind and what you need to do to protect yourself and reverse the damage.

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

If you don’t do anything else, don’t forget the sunscreen AND to put it on. You should always apply a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30, even when it is cloudy or rainy. Sunscreen isn’t a total protector, but it will minimize potential skin damage. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day as well. Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are also essentials for a day in the sun.

Being Tan Is Not Always Beautiful

During summer, everyone looks forward to finally being able to have that sun-kissed glow. Unfortunately, that tan isn’t doing you any favors. Your skin produces extra pigment to protect itself from sun damage. However, that extra pigment doesn’t always appear evenly causing what is known as hyperpigmentation, better known as sun spots and brown spots. IPL Photofacials and laser skin resurfacing from Parson Skin Center can help to reverse these side effects evening out your skin tone.

The Wrinkles Left Behind

There is no doubt about it; if you spend enough time in the sun, you’re going to end up with wrinkles. This is because the sun speeds up the breakdown of collagen and elastin in your skin. These are the building blocks of your skin. They keep it firm and smooth. If you already have lines and wrinkles as a result of the sun, consider microneedling. It triggers the production of collagen and elastin in your skin helping to tighten and fill in those unavoidable lines.

The Never Fun Sunburn – Ouch!

Along with increasing your risk for skin cancer, a sunburn leaves your skin dry. This can result in scaly, patchy areas that aren’t aesthetically pleasing. Your skin can dry out even without enduring a sunburn, so you have to be careful. A Hydrafacial is a good option when your skin becomes desperate for hydration and rejuvenation.

We still have several weeks of summer left, so be smart and take care of your skin. And if you have endured damage, contact Parson Skin Center at (480) 282-8386 to give your skin a little TLC.