Is Skin More Susceptible to Sun Damage As We Age? Expert Advice + Smart Product Picks
As we age, our skin doesn’t just change in texture and elasticity, it becomes more vulnerable to environmental aggressors, particularly the sun. But why is mature skin more susceptible to sun damage, and what can we do to shield it?
“As we get older, our skin's natural barrier weakens, collagen production declines, and the skin becomes thinner,” explains Bruce Green, Chartered Chemist and Founder of SOS Serum Skincare. “Older skin has fewer melanocytes / cells that produce protective pigment thus increasing UV sensitivity. This means UV rays can penetrate more deeply and cause more significant damage, accelerating fine lines, pigmentation, and loss of firmness.”
While everyone should wear daily SPF, mature skin requires a more holistic defence. This includes not just broad-spectrum sunscreen, but also products that help support the skin’s structure and soothe inflammation.
Bruce recommends incorporating antioxidant-rich formulas and hydration boosters into your daily routine. “Hydrated skin is more resilient. Using products like the SOS H20 Day Cream SPF 30, packed with glycerin and hyaluronic acid, can help maintain moisture and improve barrier function, making the skin less reactive to sun exposure,” he advises.
Bruce adds that “There are a number of protective habits I always recommend, particularly as skin matures. First and foremost, double down on SPF. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF30 or higher and make it a daily ritual, even on cloudy days. If you’re spending time outdoors, be sure to reapply every two hours.
Topical antioxidants are another key tool in the fight against sun damage. Ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and green tea extract help to neutralise free radicals caused by UV exposure and support overall skin health.
It’s also essential to soothe sun-stressed skin. Products like the SOS SPF 50 Sun Cream and SOS Night Cream are formulated to calm and repair, using barrier-supporting and anti-inflammatory ingredients that work particularly well on more delicate, ageing skin.”
“I also recommend seeing a dermatologist annually for a skin cancer screening. And don’t underestimate the basics,” he says. “Wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat can go a long way in shielding areas like the eyes and forehead, where crow’s feet and pigmentation tend to appear first. Diet and supplements such as Omega 3 (fish oil), Polyphenols (Green Tea) and Lycopene (tomatoes) can help give additional UV protection.”
“Prevention is always better than cure. By combining sun protection, antioxidants and skin repair, you can significantly keep skin healthier and more youthful. Don’t wait for visible sun damage to appear, start protecting your skin early, and adapt your routine as it matures. That’s the real secret to long-lasting skin health.”