
While sunshine is key to our well-being, providing us with vitamin D and boosting our mood, sun exposure without protection can cause serious harm to our skin and lead to burning, premature ageing and even certain skin cancers.
However, using sunscreen and other protective measures doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the sun. You can still absorb vitamin D and still tan safely while keeping your skin healthy.
Signs of Sun Damage
Sun damage doesn’t just show up as a sunburn. Over time, repeated exposure to UV rays can cause:
- Redness and broken capillaries
- Uneven skin tone, including freckles, white patches and sunspots
- Skin lesions, which are pre-cancerous changes that develop with age due to past sun exposure
What Are Skin Lesions?
Skin lesions are areas of damaged skin that appear as rough patches, raised bumps or flaky red spots. Some common sun-related lesions include:
- Acne rosacea, which causes persistent redness and flare ups
- Skin keratoses, rough or scaly patches
Skin lesions really are very common and I always advise my clients to seek professional advice from their doctor / dermatologist because if left untreated, these skin changes can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
In the vast majority of cases, once their non-malignant status is confirmed, lesions can be successfully removed using professional, aesthetic laser treatments.
Sun Protection helps to prevent Premature Ageing
Beyond health risks, sun exposure also accelerates the aging process. Unprotected skin develops wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging much earlier than protected skin.
How to Protect Your Skin
To keep your skin healthy and youthful, follow these simple sun protection tips:
✔ Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days
✔ Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating
✔ Seek shade during peak sun hours (11 AM – 3 PM)
✔ Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses
✔ Stay hydrated to keep your skin nourished
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the sun while keeping your skin safe and beautiful for years to come.





