Almost nothing makes a person look old like wrinkles. This is especially true with the skin surrounding the eyes. These lines are not simply an aesthetic concern, as the sunlight that produces wrinkles also raises the likelihood of skin cancer. To avoid these dangers, consider these preventative measures:
Sunscreen
While most know that sunscreen should be worn at the beach or other times of lengthy sun exposure, frequent episodes of minimal sun exposure can be just as damaging. Wear sunscreen daily regardless of the amount of expected sun exposure.
Large-Brimmed Hats
Another defense against periocular wrinkles is shade. Staying somewhere shady, like under a tree, can help prevent wrinkles, but shade is not always available. Large-brimmed hats provide shade for the face when it’s otherwise scarce.
Sunglasses
A vital component of any facial sun protection is a pair of UVA/UVB-blocking sunglasses. Specialists, like those at All About Eyes, can help you find the perfect style that fits your budget. Not only will sunglasses protect the eye area from sunburn and future wrinkles, it can protect the eye itself from potentially serious conditions.
Macular degeneration and cataracts are probably the most widely known conditions that occur with lengthy optical sun exposure. However, eyes can also develop cancer and become sunburned without proper protection.
Medication Information
One of the potentially serious side effects of some medications are skin-related. Many times the trouble results when a particular medication causes the skin to absorb too many UV rays. Not only can this lead to premature wrinkles, it can cause serious damage and/or death of skin cells. Always check to see if a medication indicates sun avoidance. If sun avoidance is impossible, use the above measures with due diligence.
Tanning
Despite all the studies and medical information describing the danger, many people still go to beaches or tanning beds to get a tan. It should be noted that there is no such thing as a “safe tan” regardless of the spiel employees at a tanning salon might spout. If tan skin is desired, the best idea is a skin colorant. Skin colorants often have sunscreen in them, and the exact hue of tan can be chosen, unlike sun exposure or tanning beds. For those desiring a tanned look, spray colorants are a safe alternative.
An Ounce of Prevention
Taking steps now to protect the eyes and adjacent skin is the best way to avoid wrinkles and other dangers before they begin. Though they may take years to develop, wrinkles will eventually appear without adequate protection.
