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Why is Sun Damage so Bad for our Long Term Health?

April 4, 2025

We always hear that we need to protect our skin from the sun, but have you ever looked into why? Here is a simple overview of why sunburns are dangerous for your long-term health. Sunburns cause damage to your skin cells and increase the risk of developing serious skin conditions, including skin cancer. Here’s why:

  1. DNA Damage: Sunburns occur when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun for too long. UV rays penetrate the skin and can damage the DNA in your skin cells. This damage can lead to mutations that disrupt normal cell function. Over time, this DNA damage can accumulate and potentially lead to the development of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, which is the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
  2. Immune System Suppression: UV radiation also suppresses your immune system in the affected area. This means your body’s ability to detect and repair damaged cells is compromised. As a result, abnormal cells are more likely to survive and proliferate, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer.
  3. Premature Aging (Photoaging): Sunburns can accelerate the aging process of the skin, causing wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and loss of skin elasticity. UV rays break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, which are responsible for keeping it firm and smooth. Over time, repeated sunburns can result in significant premature aging of the skin.
  4. Increased Risk of Skin Cancer: A history of sunburns, especially severe ones, is a major risk factor for developing skin cancer. Each time your skin burns, the risk increases. The more sunburns you have over your lifetime, the greater your chances of developing skin cancer. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma are all linked to UV exposure.
  5. Delayed Effects: The effects of sunburn can take years to show up. Even if you don’t see immediate consequences, the long-term damage to your skin accumulates over time. Repeated or severe sunburns in childhood and adolescence significantly raise the risk of skin cancer later in life.

At Elevation Med Spa, we understand the importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. We work every day to educate our clients on how to properly protect your skin from sun damage. A few examples of how you can protect your skin are by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure can help reduce these risks and keep your skin healthy in the long run.