5 Things You Need to Know About UV Light And Wrinkles

1. Tan Now, Pay Later

Stay away from the sun if you want younger looking skin. The sun emits ultraviolet radiation (UV) that breaks down collagen and elastin fibers that lie in the dermis. Lose this connective skin tissue and you lose strength and elasticity, gaining wrinkles. Keep covered when in the sun or use sunblock if you do not want to age before your time.

2. Skin Types and Risk Factors

Know your skin type to assess your risk. Dermatologists identify skin types using a system known as the Fitzpatrick Classification Scale. Skin types range from Type I, fair skin that never tans, to Type VI, black skin that never burns. Each skin type is structurally different and reacts differently to sun exposure. Visit the Dermatology Channel website to find your skin classification. Type I and Type II skin types are most susceptible to the photoaging effects of the UV light. Photoaging damage include wrinkles, leathery skin, moles and skin cancer. Even if you have Type VI skin, you still experience the photoaging effects of the sun.

3. Indoor Threats

Be concerned about reports of ozone depletion. The ozone layer in our atmosphere is what protects us against large amount of the sun's UV radiation. But, the sun is not the only source of UV light. Lights used in tanning salons emit more than five times the amount of UVA light than the sun. UVA light penetrates more deeply into the skin and causes long term damage. Its companion, UVB light, causes sunburns. UVA is the reason for your suntan. Avoid tanning beds if you want to prevent wrinkles. UV light is also used to destroy bacteria, treat certain medical conditions and used for business and research applications. Protection for your skin is necessary if you work in or near UV light sources.

4. Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen

Use sunscreen to protect your skin from UV light and to prevent wrinkles. Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15, no matter what your skin type. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going into the sun. It takes 20 minutes for sunscreen to absorb into your skin and become effective. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.

5. Read Sunscreen Labels

Look for more information on how much UVA and UVB protection your sunscreen provides. The Federal Food and Drug Administration proposed new labeling requirements for all sunscreen products in 2007. Implementation of the new rules have been delayed though some sunscreen manufacturers have voluntarily begun providing more detailed information about the levels of protection their products offer. Take a good look at your sunscreen's label and choose products that offer significant UVA and UVB protection if you are serious about stopping wrinkles.