.png)
Whether you grew up hearing “a tan looks healthy”, got burnt at the beach a few too many times, or even indulged in the odd tanning-bed moment as I sadly did when younger – unfortunately, we all have varying degrees of damage to our skin, thanks to the sun. Our harsh climate isn’t just a minor inconvenience - it’s a major contributor to skin damage and premature aging and chances are the Australian sun has left its mark on your skin.
But don’t panic! There’s plenty you can do to protect your skin and address existing damage.
Sun Damage and Premature Aging: What You Need to Know
Let’s get one thing straight, when it comes to the sun there’s more at play than just a little red skin: sun damage is more than skin-deep. Did you know that up to 80% of visible skin ageing is directly linked to sun exposure, leaving genetics to account for a mere 10%. The culprit? Collagen, the substance that keeps our skin plump and youthful, starts to break down way before you start to notice any pinkness or obvious effects from being exposed to the sun’s rays.
Understanding the difference between UVA and UVB rays is key to protecting your skin. While UVB rays are infamous for causing sunburn (especially during the hotter months like summer), But what we often overlook is that UVA rays - in fact UVA rays are the silent saboteurs responsible for accelerating aging and the main offenders when it comes to accelerated skin ageing.
These rays don’t change in intensity based on the weather and unlike UVB, UVA rays are consistent year-round (they’re just as strong on cloudy days, FYI) and can penetrate deep into the dermis, damaging collagen and elastin fibres. The result? Wrinkles, sagging and pigmentation.
This means SLIP, SLOP, SLAP isn’t just for sunny days - you need to be diligent you’re your sun protection daily, no matter the season or weather, all year round. Yes, even in winter. Think of it as the most important step in your skincare routine.
SPF: The Real Deal
Think sunscreen is a magical shield? Think again. It’s a common misconception that many of us have, thinking that slathering on sunscreen with a higher SPF will block out all sun exposure. Not quite! SPF doesn’t block UV rays entirely; instead, it essentially works by extending your skin’s natural burn time, so while you may feel “protected,” that doesn’t mean you’re entirely shielded. For the extra harsh Australian conditions, experts recommend SPF 30+ at the bare minimum, with 50+ being the gold standard.
And no, the SPF in your makeup or daily moisturiser isn’t enough. You absolutely need a dedicated sunscreen as part of your daily skincare routine (ideally the last step), even on cloudy or overcast days and during winter, the sun’s rays can still damage your skin. Think of it like this: the UV rays don’t take a holiday - neither should your skincare.
Prevention Is the Best Cure
While protective measures are vital, limiting sun exposure remains your best line of defence. Avoid peak UV hours (usually late morning to mid-afternoon), seek shade and wear protective clothing. Remember, a sun-kissed glow today will likely lead to wrinkles, spots, and other concerns tomorrow. Is it really worth it?
Treating Existing Sun Damage
So, you’ve been diligent with sunscreen - but what about damage that’s already done? Whether it’s dark spots, uneven skin tone, or just that sun-kissed look that’s overstayed its welcome, there’s good news: you don’t have to just live with it.
Modern skincare and treatments offer plenty of solutions to tackle sunspots, discolouration and pigmentation.
See a Skin Therapist
There’s a whole range of treatments available to help reverse sun damage, especially if you're dealing with photo-ageing. A professional assessment can help identify the best treatment options for you and a skin therapist can recommend a plan based on your individual skin needs.
One popular choice is hydrodermabrasion, which exfoliates the skin, sloughing off the top layer of skin to reveal a fresher, brighter complexion. Microdermabrasion machines are also particularly effective for mild sun damage, with results often visible after the first session.
Treat Sun Damage With IPL Therapy
For deeper damage, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy can work wonders. This advanced treatment uses pulses of light to target melanin in the dermis, breaking up pigmentation and age spots, smoothing out uneven skin texture caused by UV damage. IPL machines don’t just work on surface-level pigmentation, they also reach the deeper layers to address underlying unevenness. Treatments also stimulate collagen production, leaving your skin looking brighter, more even and youthful-looking.
Freckles, sunspots and even age spots are no match for a series of IPL sessions, which are spaced a few weeks apart for maximum results.
LED light therapy
LED light therapy machines can effectively target pigmentation caused by sun damage, particularly through the use of green and red LED wavelengths. Green light penetrates the skin to regulate melanocyte activity, reducing excessive melanin production that leads to sunspots and uneven skin tone. This process gradually lightens hyperpigmentation, creating a more balanced complexion.
Red light complements this by stimulating cellular repair and collagen production, enhancing the skin's overall health and accelerating the fading of discoloration. Together, these wavelengths not only help diminish dark spots but also improve skin texture and resilience, offering a gentle, non-invasive solution for sun-damaged skin.
Upgrade Your Skincare Routine
In addition to treatments, there are several powerhouse ingredients you can incorporate into your skincare routine to help revise sun damage. Combat sun damage at home with powerhouse ingredients like:
Niacinamide: Reduces redness and improves skin barrier function.
Vitamin C: Brightens skin and fights free radical damage.
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Gently exfoliate and improve skin texture.
Be cautious with products designed to lighten pigmentation, as they can increase sun sensitivity. Always pair active ingredients with daily SPF to avoid exacerbating damage. A
consultation with a skin therapist can help tailor a routine that complements your professional treatments.
The Bottom Line
We all love a bit of sunshine - after all, a little Vitamin D is good for the soul. Australia’s intense sun might make for enviable beach days, but it also means taking extra precautions to protect your skin. With our especially intense sun, it’s essential to remember that the more we expose ourselves to UV rays, the more we risk premature ageing and long-term skin damage. Preventative care, from daily sunscreen to limiting exposure, is the best way to keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
For existing damage, modern skincare and professional treatments offer effective solutions. Whether it’s microdermabrasion, IPL, or a tailored product regimen, there’s hope for reversing the signs of sun exposure.
So, enjoy the sunshine responsibly, and remember: your future self will thank you for prioritising your skin today.
This article is in partnership with salon suppliers, The Global Beauty Group. To learn more about IPL machines, LED light therapy equipment or Microdermabrasion machines or to find a treatment provider in your area, visit their website.
Thank you for reading this article! Be sure to check us out on...
Comments