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Writer's pictureDeirdre Palm Adams

Nourishing and Protecting Your Skin: Simple Steps to Prevent Sun Damage

Sun damage is a gradual process that can go unnoticed until it becomes a significant concern. While it may seem harmless at first, the effects of sun exposure accumulate over time, leading to visible signs of aging and skin damage. The good news is that there are simple yet effective steps you can take for nourishing and protecting your skin from the inside out. By understanding the impact of UV radiation and incorporating healthy habits, you can maintain a radiant complexion and safeguard your skin’s health.


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Understanding Sun Damage

When you're out enjoying a sunny day, you might not realize what’s happening deep within your skin. Sunshine is great in small doses, but too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be harmful. Over time, UV exposure can lead to uneven skin tone, texture issues, fine lines, and wrinkles. Researchers estimate that up to 90% of visible skin aging is due to sun exposure. What’s more, the damage is cumulative, meaning it adds up over your lifetime.


UVA vs. UVB Rays

There are two main types of UV rays to be aware of: UVA and UVB. UVA rays, known as “aging” rays, penetrate deep into the skin and are the primary cause of wrinkles and other signs of aging. UVB rays, or “burning” rays, are the ones that cause sunburn and damage the surface cells of your skin, leading to redness and pain.


Protecting Your Skin

To protect your skin from UV damage, try these tips:


  1. Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses can shield your skin.

  2. Limit Sun Exposure: Stay indoors or in the shade during the brightest parts of the day.

  3. Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen daily with at least SPF 15. Regular use can reduce skin aging by 24%.


Nutrition for Healthy Skin

In addition to external protection, nourishing your skin from the inside is crucial. Here’s how:

Collagen Peptides. Collagen is the foundation of a smooth, radiant complexion. Sun exposure breaks down collagen, leading to wrinkles. Collagen supplements, like Collagen Bone Broth, provide highly bioavailable collagen peptides and vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis.


Omega-3s and Vitamins

Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins (like vitamin C and beta carotene) help protect your skin from UV stress. They neutralize free radicals caused by UV radiation. Beta carotene, found in colorful vegetables, accumulates in the skin’s deeper layers, boosting its defense against UV rays.


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Fruits and Vegetables

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides skin-loving nutrients. Beta carotene not only supports skin health but also gives your skin a warm, sun-kissed glow without any of the damaging effects of a suntan. Organic Greens, packed with non-GMO, organic vegetables, offer a convenient way to increase your vegetable intake.


It's Never Too Late to be Nourishing and Protecting Your Skin

While the effects of sun damage add up over time, most of our lifetime exposure happens during adulthood. So, it’s never too late to start nourishing and protecting your skin. By combining good sun habits with a nutrient-rich diet, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing from the inside out.


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