Did you know that 80%* of skin's aging is caused by UV rays? The sun can play a large role in cutaneous aging, with tanning increasing the risk of developing wrinkles.
*Effect of the sun on visible clinical signs of aging in Caucasian skin. F. Flament and al. Clinical, Cosmetic and investigational Dermatol. 2013).
Use daily suncare protection to avoid wrinkles
You might not see the immediate effects of over-exposure (sunburn and/or sensitivity) caused principally by UVB rays, but your skin can nevertheless suffer from long-term damage due to the more harmful UVA rays contained in sunshine, especially long-wave UVA. This is why you should never tan without having applied protection specifically designed to block UVA rays, as your exposure will be more intense, but the damage may not necessarily be visible. The consequences can be an inflammation of the cells within the epidermis, damage to the DNA, photo-aging (looking older than your years) and destruction of the skin's interior structure.
Know your skin type and sun exposure
Those with sensitive skin will probably already be aware of the need to used tailored suncare to avoid flare-ups. But protecting your skin also depends on the type of exposure you experience, even if this appears to be none at all: a cold and an overcast sky may lead us to underestimate the intensity of UV rays, of which up to 95% can penetrate through cloud cover. Even in winter your skin requires protection, as UVA rays are present all-year-round. Light surfaces such as snow, ice, sand, concrete and water also reflect UV and accentuate the effects of the sun.
To avoid premature aging and other skin damage, sun protection should be adapted depending on location, the season and the time of year. It is therefore important to use an especially high protection factor if the climate is hot, you are at a high altitude, or when there is considerable reflection from the landscape or surfaces around you.
Hydrate after exposure to soothe and repair your skin
When back indoors, or when the sun has set, ensure you don't leave skin dehydrated. Drink plenty of water, and apply an after-sun to the exposed areas of your body. The Ideal Soleil After-Sun can be used in or out of the shower and, thanks to a blend of Shea and vegetal oils, is perfect for hydrating dry and sensitive skin after a day in the sun. A quenching facial mask can also do a world of good to your complexion, prolonging your tan and maintaining hydration.
Bonus tips: Relax! By unwinding, our facial muscles relax, and wrinkles are smoothed. To avoid squinting in the sun, which can cause crows' feet to develop, don't forget your sunglasses.