Excessive sun exposure accelerates the natural aging process of the skin, causing skin to appear discolored, saggy, wrinkled and dry, according to the Mayo Clinic. Because sun damage accumulates over time, proper skin care, beginning at an early age, is essential for healthy, young looking skin later in life. Improving the appearance of skin already damaged by the sun is difficult and typically involves a combination of home care and professional treatment.
Step 1
Apply sunscreen to all areas of your body exposed to the sun, every day of every month. Apply sunscreen in the morning before putting on foundation, or use cosmetics with built-in protection. Sunscreen will help prevent additional sun damage while allowing your skin to heal from previous exposure. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Step 2
Use creams containing retinoids, or vitamin A, to repair sun-damaged skin. Retinoids help stimulate collagen and keratin production and increase the rate of cell turnover. These effects can improve the texture and strength of your skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society. Creams containing vitamin A are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths.
Step 3
Exercise regularly and drink at least 64 ounces of water a day. Exercise will improve circulation to your skin, and adequate water intake will keep your skin hydrated and minimize sagging and wrinkles.
Step 4
Eat a balanced diet high in vitamins C and E and other antioxidants. Sunlight damages the collagen matrix of the skin, resulting in a loss of support, wrinkles and sagging. Antioxidants help heal the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fade skin discoloration, according to Vanderbilt University.
Step 5
Moisturize before bed each night and again when you wake in the morning. Using moisturizer can improve the texture of your skin and help sun-damaged skin appear younger and healthier.
Step 6
Exfoliate your skin using a scrub or exfoliant pad every time you shower. Regular exfoliation removes the top layer of dead skin cells from your face and body to improve skin tone, reduce flakiness and minimize fine lines.
Step 7
Ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for dermabrasion, laser treatment or a chemical peel. These procedures remove the top layer of skin to allow new, healthier skin to take its place. While these procedures typically cause some side effects and require a recovery period of days to weeks, they are effective in most cases at reducing wrinkles and discoloration, improving skin texture and creating a more youthful appearance.
Step 8
If you smoke, stop immediately. The New Zealand Dermatological Society notes that smoking tobacco products increases wrinkles, especially around your mouth and eyes, and delays healing from previous sun-related skin damage. Smoking also might increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen, SPF 15 or higher
- Retinoid cream
- Moisturizer
- Exfoliant pad or scrub
