While we’re well aware of the dangers associated with too much sun, how many of us actually know what happens to our skin when it burns?
The reddening, swelling and pain of sunburn are actually the symptoms of a reaction to the sun’s UV rays.
The intense energy of UV radiation damages molecules on the skin’s surface, and sparks the synthesis of proteins such as prostaglandins and cytokines.
In turn, these proteins cause the blood vessels to dilate and inflammatory cells to gather at the affected area – this is when you feel the burn!
It usually takes 4-6 hours for these proteins to kick in after the initial UV over-exposure, hence why sunburn can appear long after you’ve been sitting out.
The effects of sun damage
Though the odd patch of sunburn is treatable, the real danger lies in prolonged or regular over-exposure to UV radiation. In these cases skin cells become so damaged that the body can no longer repair them, and they irreversibly mutate into potentially cancerous cells.
The other, less serious, but sadly more effective sunbathing deterrent is the very real ageing effect of UV radiation.
Astoundingly, sun damage accounts for 90% of premature skin ageing. Though scientists aren’t completely certain of how this process works, some think that it is due to UV rays’ ability to break down collagen.
Collagen naturally depletes with age, and is the substance responsible for maintaining skin strength, firmness and elasticity. The less collagen, the more loose, lined and lacklustre skin appears.
How to care for sunburned skin
If you have caught the rays a little too much, we have some tried and trusted skin soothers that we always reach for.
Century Flower™ mist - kept in the fridge for even more relief – will instantly soothe your skin, while supporting your skin barrier back to health.
Next, try The Anthemis™, our calming face cream for even the most sensitive skin. Chamomile is bursting with Chamazulene, a powerful natural anti-inflammatory that cools the skin and reduces swelling. And wonder ingredient Rosehip accelerates the skin’s natural healing process, while improving its firmness, elasticity and suppleness.
Talking of which, we’re never without our little bottle of Rosehip Bioregenerate™ face oil either. It’s the perfect antidote to sore, sunburned skin. Drop it into your aftersun or apply neat to reap the benefits of this highly regenerative powerhouse.
Meanwhile if it’s more long term sun damage that you want to undo – such as sun spots or hyperpigmentation – there’s plenty of ingredients that can help. Our go-to is Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant which not only protects against damage but helps brighten an uneven skin tone.
Our Fade Forward™ Dark Spot Serum blends Vitamin C with Marine Algae, a genius active which tackles the root cause of discolouration in the skin. Used daily, it’s proven to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation in just four weeks.
How to protect against sun damage
Prevention is always better than cure. So our best advice for protecting the skin is to stay out of the sun during the peak hours of 11-3pm, or if you’re out and about to cover up.
A wide-brimmed hat is your best friend – and daily sunscreen is essential. We recommend a mineral broad spectrum SPF as it’s better tolerated by sensitive skin, and provides a physical shield against the sun’s rays. Just make sure you apply plenty, and reapply regularly.
And remember, there’s no such thing as a safe tan – unless it’s a fake one. That’s why we choose our 100% natural tanning drops to get our skin looking sunkissed. These hydrating drops are easy to use, non-irritating, and look as good as the real thing – without the damage.
Shop our mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin and natural tanning drops here
