In our continuing efforts to maintain youthful skin, we cannot neglect what may be the one true beauty secret. Effective protection from the sun can prevent damage to the skin. Even without actual sunburn, exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun can cause wrinkles, age spots, skin cancer, and other generally weathering effects. By avoiding proper sun protection, you will impede or counteract any anti-aging treatments that you have invested time and money into trying to achieve beautiful skin.

Skin care tips for maintaining young skin in spite of the damaging effects of the environment can be as simple as remembering to look for skin care products such as face creams and cosmetics that already include a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. This can cut out a step in your morning routine by not having to apply a separate sunscreen. Look for a product that is paba-free, especially for sensitive skin, to avoid stinging. Sunscreen should be used every day, not just days when you expect to spend an extraordinary amount of time outside or only on sunny days. UV rays are still damaging coming in through many types of windows and may even be worsened by cloudy days. Also, keep in mind that water, sand, and snow will reflect sun rays and may burn parts of the skin that are not protected.

While sunscreen can help filter out the UV rays and allow you more time outside than without protection, it cannot completely prevent a sunburn if you spend an excessive amount of time in direct sunlight, if you are not extra cautious about re-applying, or is you have sensitive skin. Some women find that they burn more easily while on hormone replacement therapy, while taking hormone-altering birth control pills, or at various stages of the regular menstrual cycle. In the case of sunburn, soothing creams or all natural skin care such as aloe vera can be helpful in relieving discomfort. Drink a lot of water and watch for infection. Avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm when the rays are their strongest. Repeated sunburn or regular exposure to strong sun over many years breaks down the elastic tissues in the skin and makes it look prematurely old and wrinkled.

Remember that any exposure to sun or heat will worsen dry skin or psoriasis. Always gently clean the skin and moisturize it - many of the best skin care products will contain ingredients such as aloe vera or vitamin E that will cool and moisturize. Proper protection from the sun can provide years of youthful skin that far exceed your tan friends and neighbors.