Discover the science behind “sunscreen vs. no sunscreen” in preventing wrinkles. Learn how daily SPF use might slow aging, protect collagen, and improve skin texture. Find tips on choosing the best sunscreen for youthful skin.
Obviously protecting your skin is No. 1 when it comes toSPF, but is your daily sunscreen application preventing wrinkles too?
“Research has shown that consistentsunscreenuse does have anti-aging effects on the skin,” saysDr. Jeannette Graf, board certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. “While aging and wrinkles are a natural and inevitable part of life, wearing sunscreen regularly can slow down that process.”
So, for superficial skin concerns, how exactly does sunscreen help slow down the aging clock? Here’s what science and Graf have to say about sunscreen’s anti-aging effects.
How does sunscreen prevent wrinkles and aging?
Sunscreeneither creates a layer on the skin that physically blocks or has chemicals that absorb harmful UV rays (mostly UVA and UVB). This helps preventsunburn,skin cancer, and the breakdown ofcollagen(which leads to wrinkles).
Basically, without SPF, your skin tries to protect itself from the sun’s harsh rays by producing thick, splotchy pigment (hello,fried skinandsunspots). So, even though your skinmeanswell, chances are you won’t love the results and your skin is being damaged.
Photo damaged skinischaracterized by:
“Photoaging is not completely avoidable, but if the right steps are taken, it can be avoided as much as possible,” Graf says.
Graf also notes that “chronic sun exposure significantly increases the rate of wrinkling.” And according to2019 research, about 80 percent of facial aging is caused by sun exposure. Genes, medical, and lifestyle factors also play a role.
So, before you reach for theretinolorpeptide serum, take it from Graf: “Sunscreen is the bestanti-agingtool out there!”
Prove it: Sunscreen vs. no sunscreen aging
Now you understand a bit aboutsunscreenscience, here are some receipts to prove it’s worth applying every day.
Graf notes that in addition to preventing skin cancer, “the use ofsunscreenis beneficial for sagging, wrinkles, redness,textured skin, and skin damage.”
The research agrees: A2016 studyfound that peeps who used a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 daily for 1 year showed improvements in skin clarity and texture. (Pro tip: A higher SPF is even better.)
A 4-year studyalso reported folks who weretoldto apply sunscreen regularly were 24 percent less likely to show increased signs of aging compared to people who didn’t receive any instructions. (See derms, wearelistening!)
These photos of identical twins show how repeated sun exposure without SPF can lead to more damage over time.
Screening for sunscreens: How to choose the best SPF
Most of us know that we shouldn’t be taking SPF tips fromGwyneth. But with all the options out there, what sunscreens are the best for preventing aging and wrinkles?
Here’s what Graf and the AAD recommend in a sunscreen:
Broad-spectrum.Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both harmful UVA and UVB rays.
SPF 30+.Graf recommends wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 for optimal protection. However, theAADand many dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30. What’s the diff? SPF 50 filters out about98 percentof UVB rays, while SPF 30 filters out 96.7 percent.
Mineral sunscreens.“While chemical sunscreens work to absorb the UV [rays], mineral sunscreens block the sun’s UV rays from hitting the skin,” says Graf. Bonus: mineral-based sunscreens block the shortandlong UVA rays responsible for aging, while some chemical sunscreens don’t. Graf recommendsmineral sunscreenswith zinc oxide, which can be applied to thesensitiveeye area without causing burning.
Avoid potentially harmful chemical ingredients.Oxybenzone and octinoaxate are just two of a long list ofchemical sunscreeningredientsharming aquatic lifelike coral reefs. TheFDAhas also found these chemicals in human blood samples and is re-evaluating a number of chemical sunscreen ingredients due to blood absorption concerns. Though these chemicals might not be harmful when absorbed into the skin, the reality is we just don’t know.
Sunblock over SPF makeup.“Although there are makeups which contain SPF, they are not as protective as an actual sunblock,” Graf says. This is partly because themoisturizercontent can dilute that precious SPF. So even if your makeup contains UV protection, you may want to double-up with a sunscreen. (Plus, you should be reapplying SPF throughout the day.)
Also, make sure your sunscreen of choice is legit. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), about75 percentof 1,800 tested sunscreens in 2021 didn’t provide adequate sun protection or had ingredients that could be linked to harmful effects. you’re able to look up your sunscreen in theEWG databaseto learn more about its ingredients and potential safety concerns.
Apply sunscreen like a pro
When it comes to SPF application, Graf says to:
Need help choosing an actual sunscreen?Here are some of our favemineral,face,sensitive skin, and overallbest sunscreenpicks.
Other tips to prevent premature wrinkles
In addition to slathering on the SPF, following sun-safe tips, in general, can help you prevent cancer and wrinkles caused by photo-aging:
When to see a dermatologist about wrinkles and sun damage
Wearing sunscreen is the move for skin cancer and photoaging prevention, but you may also want to consult a derm when:
A dermatologist can also help you understand how to care for and if there are any ways to heal damaged skin.
Bottom line
Experts agree: Wearing sunscreen can absolutely prevent signs of premature aging, including wrinkles.
“Taking care of your skin is not only important for anti-aging purposes but also to prevent skin cancer,” Graf reminds us. “Make sure you are applying sunscreen daily and reapply throughout the day.”
