Sun damage, also known as photodamage, refers to how the sun alters the look and feel of skin. Sun damage is a form of extrinsic aging, which is premature aging caused by the environment, including unprotected exposure to the sun. Extrinsic aging is cumulative, which means the effects worsen with repeated, unprotected exposure to the sun.

When you expose your skin to the sun, what you're really doing is exposing it to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, an invisible form of radiation. There are two types of UV rays-UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are the main cause of premature aging and skin cancer. UVB rays mainly impact the surface of the skin and are the primary cause of sunburns. They also contribute to skin cancer.

Whether you are walking to your car, driving to work or simply sitting near a window, you are exposed to harmful UV rays. This type of daily exposure is known as incidental UV exposure.

Incidental exposure occurs where you least expect it-in the shade, on cloudy days, even while indoors. It is estimated that the average person is exposed to more than 10 hours of indoor UV rays every week. Add that to more than seven hours of outdoor UV rays a week and without proper protection, your weekly UV-radiation exposure could total nearly 20 hours. That's like spending the weekend at the beach without wearing sunscreen!

The signs of sun damage are not always obvious. However, sun damage is cumulative and can worsen over time. That means the signs of sun damage will likely appear as you grow older. These signs include fine wrinkling, roughness, mottled hyperpigmentation (light, patchy discoloration, including brown spots), coarse wrinkling, yellowing and laxity (loose, thin skin that can result in a sunken appearance).

In addition to premature aging of the skin, sun damage also increases your risk of skin cancer. The three common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous of all skin cancers; however, it is almost always treatable when detected early.

Everyone is susceptible to the damaging effects of the sun. However, some people may be more at risk than others based on the following factors: Where you live, how you live, your genetics and your medications.

If you live closer to the equator, the sun is directly overhead and UV rays are stronger. If you live in mountainous regions, look out! Research suggests that there is approximately an 8% to 10% increase in UV intensity for each 1,000 feet of elevation.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, you may be more at risk than if you are an indoor person. Sun damage accumulates over time-the more you are exposed, the more damaged your skin becomes. Apply sun protection every time you venture, or adventure, out.

If you are fair skinned with light hair and freckles, you are at the highest risk of developing sun damage and skin cancer. And if you have a family history of skin cancer, take extra precautions and use daily sun protection.

Certain medications, such as antibiotics, cause heightened sensitivity to the sun, resulting in sun rashes and sunburns. Ask your doctor if any of your medications can cause photosensitivity.

Cosmetic procedures may increase your sensitivity to the sun. If you have undergone, or are considering a treatment such as microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing or a chemical peel, talk with your dermatologist about how to protect your skin.

Protect yourself against daily sun damage by applying sun protection with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher every morning. To ensure a future of healthy, beautiful skin, schedule regular appointments with your dermatologist. Your doctor can provide you with education and information about skincare and explain the numerous sun damage prevention and treatment options available to you.

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Source: "Preventing Sun Damage" from OrthoNeutrogena