I love the sun!  Living in Colorado, and being able to see it shine for more than 300 days a year, is fabulous!  However, the majority of our skin problems, including so-called laugh lines, crow’s feet, and wrinkles, are due to what is called "photo aging" or damage caused by exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays produced by the sun.  

Compare the condition of the skin on your face to the condition of the skin on any other part of your body that is usually covered by clothing.  Can you see a striking difference?

The skin that has barely seen the daylight will look decades younger.  Damage from UV light is cumulative and can take years before becoming noticeable.

Generally, by the time we are in our mid- thirties, the long term effects of UV exposure start to become visible in the form of fine lines, wrinkles, and noticeable changes in skin tone and color.

This happens to everyone.  Don’t assume because you are not a regular sun bather or don’t spend a lot of time at the pool, that you are safe.  Most of us get a heavy dose of UV rays just by going about our daily business.

The average person receives about 18 hours a week in sun damage going from home to car to work.

UVA rays are the longest rays and penetrate the deepest breaking down the cross fibers of elastin and collagen.  UVB rays are short rays that hit the surface of the skin and cause burning.  VC rays are ultraviolet rays that do not reach the earth.

Over a lifetime, this kind of brief but chronic exposure can leave its mark.  Some people say the chemicals are worse for your skin than the sun exposure.  You have to decide for yourself. The moral of the story is to use a good sunscreen you would find in a health food store.  It covers the full spectrum and contains high quality ingredients.  You can also go to:  Aubrey Organics for a great suncreen as well.