Experts are warning that those who’ve spent more time outdoors during COVID lockdown and social distancing could face consequences in terms of sun damage and premature ageing.
The last few months have seen seismic changes in the lifestyle of many Brits. Many more have taken to going outdoors for a daily walk, run or bike ride. Others have spent increased amounts of time in the garden, on the patio or enjoying the balcony.
It can be hard to imagine that popping outside for a few minutes is as risky as sunbathing in the Mediterranean, but many of us had repeated and prolonged exposure to the sun; and it all adds up.
Added to which, during the lockdown period, UV levels were frequently at levels that can damage the skin. Especially for those that went without protection, thinking it was early in the year or wouldn’t be long and/or stayed out for extended periods (and yes when it’s lovely it is tempting just to stay there!).
Now that clinics are open again, skin treatment experts are seeing clients whose skin looks tired and old after the recent months. While stress can also be a factor, the sun is likely to be responsible for much of the damage, as research has shown that up to 90% of premature skin ageing is due to the sun. UV damage can cause a host of visible problems, including:
- Lines and wrinkles
- Pigmentation problems – sunspots, age spots general patchiness and uneven skin tone
- Dry texture and need for more moisture
- Loss of youthful fullness
- Sagging and loose skin
Preventing Sun Damage
Even if you’ve been spending time in the sun without protection, it’s never too late to start taking action to reduce the risk of UVA exposure:
- Avoid spending too long in the sun, especially avoid the peak hours 11-3pm.
- Seek shade when outside
- Wear a sunscreen all day every day of the year to protect from ageing UVA damage. Choose a good sunscreen SPF 50 or 30 as a minimum and reapply frequently
- Also cover up with clothing – wear a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, long sleeves and trousers
- If you want a healthy glow, reach for the self-tan lotion!
Repairing Sun Damage
Sun damaged skin not only looks older, it also provides a less protective barrier for keeping moisture in and keeping harmful substances out. A lifetime of sun exposure means thinner skin that is more prone to injury and damage.
The good news is that even after sun damage has occurred, there are professional treatments for treating sun damage.
Mulberry House Clinic based in Hardingstone near Northampton offer advanced technology treatments that work to boost collagen from within. Due to ongoing coronavirus restrictions, some of these are currently available, but we are taking enquiries.
- Tixel thermal fractional rejuvenation uses the heat energy instead of lasers or injections to achieve remarkable results in a number of key areas:
- Improving pigmentation problems
- Boosting collagen production to create firmer, fuller skin
- Promoting fresher and smoother looking skin with fewer visible lines
- ResurFX is a non-ablative photo-fractional skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatment delivered using the innovative and versatile M22 multi-platform system
- Laser energy works in the lower dermis layers to stimulate collagen growth and healing
- Does not damage the outer layer of the skin, so downtime and recovery are much faster than other equivalent treatments
- Collagen stimulation makes the skin appear more youthful, tighter and with a more even complexion
- IPL Skin Rejuvenation uses intense pulsed light to stimulate the skin’s rejuvenation processes. This treatment can also improve specific conditions such as:
- Vascular lesions – thread veins, spider veins, telangiectasia, broken capillaries
- Pigmented lesions – sun spots, brown spots, ageing spots, freckles
- Patchy pigmentation including hyperpigmentation, melasma
Other options include:
- BOTOX® wrinkle relaxing injections to tackle fine lines and wrinkles
- Dermal fillers to replenish lost volume and even create a subtle non-surgical face lift
- Laser Treatments to tackle pigmentation and promote healing and renewal
- Dermaroller Therapy to stimulate skin cell activity
- LED treatment to promote healing and renewal
- Retinols – watch our video for more information and see Prescription Skincare
Coming Soon – Decolletage Treatment
The decolletage, or upper chest area, is one of the areas that is often exposed to the sun. Traditionally the delicate skin here can be quite difficult to treat with few options.
Mulberry House Clinic will shortly be offering Ultherapy – the only treatment FDA in America to lift skin on the neck.
Expert Advice
Every person’s skin is different, so it is best to get professional advice on which treatment is likely to be of most benefit, depending on the issues of concern. A consultation with Dr John Tanqueray at Mulberry House Clinic includes a full assessment of the skin and discussion of the patient’s concerns before recommending the most appropriate treatments.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with over 15 years experience. Dr John Tanqueray is a former GP who can assess and diagnose skin conditions from a medical perspective before suggesting the most appropriate treatments.
Private Consultation
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients. This includes a full skin and facial assessment together with a 2-way discussion about the desired results so that the most appropriate treatment plan can be recommended. Find out more about first consultation.
Contact Us
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
