Skin damage doesn't only occur on the beach on the days you forget sunblock. Granted, skin damage can be drastic and develop rapidly from over exposure to the sun (sunburn), but the majority of damage goes unnoticed as it is occurring. It happens daily in doses both large and small. Even on the walk to your car in the morning, you are exposed to damaging rays.



One area of great concern is the part of body that is always exposed: the face. Over time, sun exposure causes the face to age prematurely, evidenced by lines and discoloration.

Consistent exposure to the sun can cause photoaging, primarily on the face and neck. Ultra-violet (UV) radiation inhibits collagen production and destroys natural elastins. The skin is never given a chance to adequately heal or repair itself, thus as these vital resources become depleted, the skin loosens and wrinkles form, and/or the skin becomes discolored. The most deceptive part of this type of skin damage is its latent long-term effects. The damage is immeasurable day to day, and only over time becomes visible. It takes years of neglect for premature aging to manifest in the form of wrinkles and discoloration.

Studies show that wearing sunblock regularly can curtail the effects of photoaging. While this is certainly valuable advice, the most practical way to prevent photoaging (along with most other skin imperfections) is to begin a proactive and comprehensive skin care regimen involving anti-aging skin care products.

While admittedly the application of anti-aging skin care products cover a variety of imperfections, they all share a common ability. The basic function of anti-aging products is that they provide the skin with a way to repair itself, which counters the daily damage it receives. Comprehensive regimens of anti-aging products not only nullifies daily skin damage, but can allow the skin to regain some of its elasticity and actually look younger. In essence, quality anti-aging products can help reverse some of the damage that has already accrued.

Several anti-aging skin care products and their respective lines demonstrate the capability to help repair and prevent sun damage, as well as aid other skin imperfections. Cosmelan, Glominerals, SkinMedica, Neocutis, and Elta MD come highly recommended by dermatologists. One of these products is certain to meet your specific needs. For example, Elta MD's hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic sunblock formulas are safe for even the most sensitive skin. Or, Cosmelan offers a superior line of depigmentation treatments. On the whole, these types of products supply valuable vitamins and minerals and with regular application, offer prevention and foster the skin's ability to repair itself.

Many of these products are not available at your local department store or spa, but rather only through a dermatologist. Dr. Gregory Nikoladis, of Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in Austin, Texas, founded iDerma.com, making these best in class anti-aging products available online.

While everyone enjoys the warmth of the sun on their face, no one wishes to look older than they are?premature aging is a concern for all. Complete avoidance of sun exposure (and thus skin damage from UV radiation) is next to impossible. Thus, a comprehensive regimen of anti-aging products stands as the most practical line of defense, offering both prevention, and potential reversal of photoaging.