How to Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage and Keep It Glowing

Many of us have a love-hate relationship with summer – not just because of the heat, but because of the damage it can do to our skin. Learn more about the sun’s effects on your skin and how Gluta-C lotion can help protect you from the summer sun.

The Five Effects of the Sun on Your Skin

Sun exposure in the form of ultraviolet (UV) rays is responsible for most of the skin changes that we think (quite wrongly) are part of the natural aging process.

UV rays are emitted at different wavelengths and are called UVA, UVB, and UVC.

UVB rays reach the earth and can penetrate the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer. UVA rays, which have longer wavelengths than UVB, penetrate the skin’s dermis, the skin’s middle layer. Meanwhile, UVC rays are absorbed by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth.

Exposure to UV rays may be responsible for up to 80 percent of the skin’s premature aging process called photoaging. Photoaging causes collagen and elastin to break down and prevents new collagen from forming. Without collagen and elastin, the skin loses firmness, elasticity, and its natural supple texture.

Medium to long-term exposure to the sun’s UV rays can also cause these five main effects on the skin:

• Loss of hydration – drier skin
• Changes in skin texture – rough, “leathery” skin
• Premature fine lines – crow’s feet; wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, and mouth
• Loss of skin elasticity – thinner, sagging skin
• Dark skin discoloration (melasma, or sunspots) and changes in skin tone

UV rays are also the cause of sunburn (a sign of short-term UV overexposure). In some cases, repeated, long-term overexposure to UV rays can lead to skin cancer.

Ways to Keep Your Skin Safe From Sun Damage

So how does one slow down photo-aging and other harmful effects of sun exposure? Simple: limit exposure to the sun’s UV rays.

Following these sun protection tips will also allow you to keep your skin safe from sun damage:

Mind Your Diet

Consume fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. Eat plenty of oranges, strawberries, kiwifruit, mangoes, guava, papaya, and pomelo, as well as bell peppers, broccoli, tomato, kale, snow-peas, and chili pepper. These foods will help your body produce collagen, which resists sun damage from UV rays.

Drink Enough Water

It is essential to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin supple and young-looking, and it also flushes out toxins from the body. Doing so also protects your skin from sun damage by keeping it moisturized.

Change Your Lifestyle

Reduce exposure to pollution, stress, and cigarettes. All of these can increase your chances of developing skin damage, especially in the face and neck area.

Taking time to meditate, exercising, and prioritizing your sleep are all great ways to keep your skin healthy. By taking care of your skin, you are helping it to stay firm and radiant.

Wear Sunscreen

Never leave the house without your sunscreen! Wearing sunscreen every day is an essential part of protecting your skin from sun damage, even if it’s cloudy outside. Doing so also allows your face whitening products to do their job and maintain your skin’s health.

If you’re wondering how much SPF sunscreen to use on your face, start with a coin-sized amount. You can also use SPF makeup and lip balm to safeguard your skin further.

Look for sunscreens with an SPF of at least 25, such as the Gluta-C Intense Whitening Dual Antioxidant Lotion, and reapply every two hours, no matter what your skin type is.

The SPF in Gluta-C’s lotion creates a double whitening activity; skin pigmentation is reduced from the inside while the skin gets outside protection from the sun. This body-whitening product provides continued protection throughout the day… and hey! It’s non-greasy and best for hot humid days!

Cover Up

The more skin you cover up, the better. Wearing clothing that covers your body and head is a great way how to prevent sun damage. Choose clothing made from light materials and lighter colors to help keep you cool in the sun.

Avoid Peak Sun Exposure

The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to stay indoors or in the shade during these hours. If you do decide to go out, don’t forget to use sunscreen and other protective measures mentioned above.

Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage

These are just a few simple tips for how to protect your skin from sun damage. Remember that the key to healthy and glowing skin is prevention, so make sure to take the necessary precautions and protect your skin from sun damage. Your future self will thank you for it!