During summer, most Australians learn from a young age to slip, slop, slap due to Australia’s high UV index, but what about after summer?

Unlike chronological ageing which is predisposed by genetics, photo ageing is dependent on excessive sun exposure and pre-existing pigment in the skin. Unfortunately, there is simply no such thing as a healthy tan! Although many Australians desire that golden summer glow, this increase in pigment is a sign of sun damage and not indicative of healthy skin! Long term UVR exposure leads to premature ageing of the skin and damage to skin structures. This can present as pigmented areas of skin, wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, dilated capillaries and overall, an uneven skin tone.  There are many skin treatments available for those concerned with ageing or sun damage, however, prevention is key!

PREVENTION AND SKINCARE

If we were to compare skin on an area of the body rarely exposed to the sun, we can visibly see a dramatic difference in colour and texture. This is especially evident as we naturally age.

Wearing sunscreen is always number 1. Many of us apply SPF during summer, going to the beach, walking and other outdoor activities on a hot day, however, wearing sun protection is not just for those summer months, a good quality sunscreen (SPF 50+) Is advised all year round for all skin types!

Not only is SPF important for prevention, but additionally using cosmeceutical skincare provides long term protection. A Retinol serum is a staple in most skincare routines, being one of the most studied anti-ageing ingredients! The “Mirra Skin” antibacterial retinol is a potent serum designed for those with fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damaged skin, providing long term results.  Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A and can have a vast range of benefits including promoting skin cell turnover, increasing collagen and elastin as well as brightening the skin. While prevention is key, many individuals have already experienced the effects of our harsh Australian sun… thankfully, there are treatments available.

PIGMENTATION AND ANTI-AGEING SKIN TREATMENTS

Evidently, there are many treatments available today for photoaged skin as the industry is ever growing with new and innovative technology.

Firstly, Chemical peels are a highly effective way to treat ageing and pigmentation. At Mirra Skin & Aesthetic Clinic, medical grade retinol peels are used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, dull and textured skin. Just like the at home ‘Mirra Skin Retinol Serum’, this peel works to increase collagen production to soften those fine lines while increasing skin cell turnover, leaving the skin luminous and soft!

IPL (Intense pulsed light) is also great for those concerned with age spots and freckles. Like lasers, IPL emits a light source, targeting that pigmentation and breaking it down to then be removed by the body’s very own lymphatic system.

Last but not least, Micro-needling devices are more popular than ever and for good reason! Skin needling works by essentially creating a micro wound in the skin via an electronic device containing a certain number of needles and an adjustable depth. This process helps to stimulate collagen production, break down pigmentation, reduce pore size and overall improve the texture and elasticity.

It is definitely evident that treatments for pigmentation and ageing are endless and taking care of the skin all year round is important. Although being out in the sun is desirable for many during summer, its important to consider the effects on the skin post summer. Conclusively, your skin plays a major role in protecting your body from many environmental factors, so make healthy skin an important part of your life.