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Sun Damage
Understanding the Effects of Sun Exposure on Your Skin
Australia’s high levels of ultraviolet radiation mean that many people experience the effects of cumulative sun exposure over time.
Sun damage can affect the skin at a cellular and structural level, contributing to visible changes as well as increasing the risk of precancerous and cancerous skin lesions.
Pathogenesis
01
DNA Damage
UV radiation can damage the DNA within skin cells, contributing to premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.
02
Collagen & Elastin Breakdown
UV exposure promotes the breakdown of collagen and elastin, contributing to wrinkles, reduced firmness and loss of skin elasticity.
03
Pigment Dysregulation
UV exposure can stimulate melanin production and contribute to uneven pigmentation, dark spots and changes in skin tone.
04
Oxidative Stress
UV radiation generates reactive oxygen species that can damage skin cells and contribute to photoageing and other signs of sun damage.
05
Inflammation
UV exposure can trigger inflammatory responses in the skin, contributing to redness, cellular damage and the processes involved in photoageing.
06
Skin Immune Suppression
UV radiation can suppress immune responses within the skin, reducing some of its natural protective functions.
Over time, these changes can contribute to both photoageing and the development of sun-related skin conditions.
Types of Sun Damage
- Photoageing
- Solar lentigines
- Actinic keratoses
- Diffuse pigmentation
- Telangiectasia
- Solar elastosis
Grading
- Severity of photoageing
- Number and distribution of actinic keratoses
- Pigmentation changes
- Vascular changes
- Changes in skin texture and elasticity
- Individual skin cancer risk
Contributing Factors
The severity of sun damage can be influenced by:
- Cumulative UV exposure
- History of sunburn
- Fair or sun-sensitive skin
- High UV exposure
- Inadequate sun protection
- Certain photosensitising medications
Prevention
Preventing further UV damage remains an important part of long-term skin health. This includes:
- Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Protective clothing
- Seeking shade
- Reapplication of sunscreen when required
- Hats and sunglasses
- Avoiding deliberate tanning
- Regular skin checks where appropriate