Routine Care & Wellness

Sun damage and your skin

Sun exposure over many years has a cumulative effect. The skin has many stretchy fibers called elastin. Ultraviolet light breaks down these fibers over time, which results in a loss of elasticity, looser, saggy skin and wrinkles. Easy bruising, fragile skin (prone to easy scrapes), and slower healing may also accompany the elastin damage.

For the most part, if the damage is done there is not much you can do to reverse it. However, the skin has some resilience and it may self-repair in part. Be certain not to add insult to injury, protect yourself with sunblocks, clothing, hats, sunglasses and shade.