What Are The Causes Of Photoaging?

Photoaging is the result of careless exposure to the sun. The best thing to do is to always seek shade. If you are in the sun, use a good broad spectrum sunscreen and the right clothing.

Photoaging refers to the deterioration of the skin by the action of the sun,  which results in signs of skin aging. It is estimated that between 75 and 90% of wrinkles and lack of elasticity in the skin are due to the effects of the sun and not to normal chronological aging.

Exposure to ultraviolet UVA and UVB rays is the determining factor for the appearance of signs of premature old age. It is estimated that photoaging begins to manifest around the age of 20, and the damage is directly proportional to the time of exposure to the sun without protection.

We now know that  photoaging is a long term process. According to experts, excesses committed at 15, for example, do not reveal themselves until the age of 40. It is several years of exposure to the sun that lead to this form of deterioration.

Aging and photoaging

Aging is influenced by internal and external factors:

• Among the internal factors, genetics play an important role. It determines the thickness and quality of the skin. As well as its level of repair, the quality of elastin and collagen fibers, among others.
• On the other hand,  external factors include various elements that accelerate the aging process through their impact on the skin. Among them, the most determining is the sun. But, food, environmental pollution and lifestyle also play a role.

From the age of 25, the regenerative capacity of skin cells decreases. This then leads to a gradual loss of elasticity of the skin, and wrinkles appear. Mainly on the face. With improper exposure to the sun and sunlight, these signs increase. This is called photoaging.

Causes of photoaging

Photoaging is the result of the action of UV rays on the skin. There are basically two types of UV rays:

• The first are UVA rays which affect the outermost layers of the skin. They give rise to tanning, but also to signs of premature aging.
• On the other hand, we find the UVB rays which penetrate the deeper areas of the skin. They are indeed able to pass through glass and are present all year round whether the sun is shining or not. They can cause sunburn and skin cancer.

Exposure to UV rays degrades collagen. Collagen molecules break down and cause an abnormal buildup of elastin.

Faced with this accumulation, the dermis reacts by producing a large amount of enzymes called matrix metalloproteinase (MMP). In French, matrix metalloproteases.

This then results in a deformation of the collagen fibers. These start to take on a disorganized appearance, and over time they form furrows or wrinkles. After a while, the skin acquires a texture similar to a parchment. It appears rough, dry and often shows changes in pigmentation.

Control photoaging

The best measure to avoid photoaging is to prevent it. The best way to do this is to use broad spectrum sunscreen on a daily basis. The broad spectrum means that it protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Ideally, it should have a sun protection factor of 30 or more.

It is essential to emphasize the daily use of sunscreen. No matter the season of the year. Even though there are clouds in the sky, ultraviolet rays are present. It is therefore not enough to protect the skin only in summer, or on sunny days.

On the other hand,  the best sun protectors are those that contain Helioplex and Mexoryl. These substances help to make the effect longer. Frequent application is therefore not necessarily necessary. Also, if signs of photoaging are already present, it is best to use creams or serums that contain retinoids.

Other aspects to take into account …

Another way to prevent photoaging is to eat antioxidant foods regularly. For example, citrus fruits, fresh vegetables, peppers, carrots, celery and salad, among others. These foods help fight the effect of ultraviolet rays.

Finally, the World Health Organization specifies that the best protection against the sun is not to expose yourself directly. Especially during the most intense hours. In addition, beyond sun protection, it is best to wear protective clothing, hats and glasses, etc.