People who live in sun-intense areas, such as Florida, Memphis, or Arizona, can show signs of photoaging in their 20s. In fact, some people who live in sun-intense areas develop actinic keratoses (AKs) and skin cancer in their 20s.
Dr Patel recommends comprehensive sun protection to prevent premature aging caused by the sun.
Comprehensive sun protection includes:
- Avoiding deliberate tanning, including use of indoor tanning devices.
- Staying out of the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest.
- Wearing protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves, when outdoors during the day.
- Applying sunscreen year round. Sunscreen should be broad spectrum (offers UVA and UVB protection) and have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before going outdoors to all skin that will be exposed. It should be reapplied after sweating or being in water.
Topical skin regimens to prevent and repair photoaging can be further discussed with you during your visit.
People who live in sun-intense areas, such as Florida, Memphis, or Arizona, can show signs of photoaging in their 20s.