Thursday, November 27, 2008

Common Treatments for Mild Sun-Damaged Skin

As children, we embraced the glorious energy and delightful pleasures the rays of the sun had to offer us. Remember those times we used to spend on the beach with our families? We bathed in the salty seawater and frolicked in the sand until our skin turned red and raw from too much sun exposure. Back then, we were way too young to worry about sun damage, and even if we had to suffer from the stinging pain of our sun-burned skin, the thought of the seriousness of the condition did not cross our minds at all. To us, it seemed to a be a minor (and temporarily unsightly) inconvenience.

However, with the extensive studies done by scientists came the realization that prolonged and frequent sun exposure would be detrimental to our skin. None of us thought of the possibility of acquiring skin illnesses like skin cancer, which is caused by sun damage.

Generally, curing sun damage requires a lengthy treatment process. However, it can be reversed totally given that correct treatment is utilized. As always, prevention is far better than any cure. Protection from the sun is still our best bet in staving off skin related conditions borne of the damaging effects of the sun. But if the damage is already present, seeking treatment by consulting a dermatologist is our best option.

Luckily, there are now effective treatments available that could prevent skin conditions due to sun damage from getting worse. In the case of mild sun damage, treatments are already widely available. We could also ask our dermatologist for sun exposed skin care intended for alleviating our condition.
Here are some of the common treatments used for mild sun damage. Let us get to know a little about their properties.

  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Alpha Hydroxy Acids help us shed dead skin cells, which in turn would be replaced by new ones. Shedding off dead skin cells promotes improved moisture levels and a more improved skin tone.

  • Soybeans

Soybeans are proven to be both mild yet effective enough to alleviate or even treat a number of skin conditions. Aside from its soothing properties, these are known to help provide moisture to the skin. Also, it slows down the resurfacing of hair growth.

  • Vitamins C and E

Vitamins C and E are antioxidants. Although they are popular for their ability to ease damage due to the sun, they can only deal with mild cases. However, when they are applied to the skin directly, they are known to help in diminishing skin discoloration as well as the appearance of fine line and wrinkles.

  • Retinol

Capable of promoting and keeping our skin healthy, Retinol is a pure form of Vitamin A. It helps in promoting a more effective production of skin cells and Keratinocytes—cells that combine Keratin, a kind of protein that comprises the skin, hair, and nails. Retinol is also popular in promoting softer skin as well as a marked reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.


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: Maricel Modesto is a writer and editor who writes for various health and lifestyle magazines.

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