Sun damage is more than a sunburn.
It builds up over years and shows as spots, wrinkles, or redness. Knowing what to watch for and simple steps to protect your skin makes a big difference.
Early signs are easy to miss. Look for uneven tan lines, freckle-like brown spots, rough patches, or skin that reddens easily after sun exposure. If a mole changes shape, colour, or starts to bleed, see a doctor. Persistent redness, non-healing sores, or growing patches of thickened skin are warning signs too.
Why it happens is simple. UV rays from the sun break down collagen and damage DNA in skin cells. Tanning is the skin’s stress response, not harmless beauty. Over time this damage causes aging, loss of elasticity, and increases the risk of skin cancer.
Prevention is the most effective treatment. Use broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even when it’s cloudy. Apply a generous layer to face, neck, ears, and hands about 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or after swimming or heavy sweating. Wear a wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses. Seek shade between 10am and 4pm when the sun is strongest. Lightweight long sleeves and trousers with UPF fabric offer extra protection without feeling heavy.
After sun care helps repair and calm skin. For mild sunburn, cool compresses and plain moisturiser soothe discomfort. Drink water to replace fluids. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relief can help with severe redness or swelling. Avoid using harsh scrubs or retinoids on recently burned skin; wait until redness fully subsides.
For cosmetic sun damage like brown spots or fine lines, several options can help. Topical retinoids and vitamin C serums can improve texture and pigmentation over months. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments speed results but need a trained clinician and careful sun avoidance afterward. If a spot looks suspicious, your GP or dermatologist can remove and test it. Early detection is key for the best outcomes.
If you work outdoors or spend long weekends outside, make sun protection part of your routine. Pack a small sunscreen in your bag and set a phone reminder to reapply. Teach kids about sun safety early — sun damage in childhood raises lifetime risk.
How sunscreen works
Sunscreen absorbs or reflects UV rays to cut the amount that reaches skin cells. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV and turn it into heat; physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide reflect rays. Broad spectrum formulas protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning). SPF measures UVB protection; higher SPF gives better protection but no product blocks 100%.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a spot bleeds, won’t heal, or changes shape or colour. Regular checks help detect issues early and stay safe.
Actinic keratosis often sneaks up on sun-exposed skin without much warning. This comprehensive guide walks you through exactly how to examine your own skin and catch early signs before they turn into something more serious. Learn how to spot the warning signs, understand the risks, and take action early to protect your health. With easy self-examination steps, clear images in words, and helpful prevention tips specifically for high-UV regions like Australia, you’ll feel confident about your next skin check. Knowledge here can genuinely stop skin cancer in its tracks.
