Sunscreen really does prevent photo-damage to skin. Dermatologists have long maintained that exposure to ultraviolet light speeds skin aging and wrinkling.
Now a study from Australia confirms that conscientious sunscreen use counteracts the aging effects of sunshine. More than 900 Aussies participated in the study. Half were instructed to slather on the sunscreen every day. The other half were told to continue their usual sunscreen habits.
After four and a half years skin damage on the back of the hands was assessed by researchers who did not know which group the participants belonged in. The daily sunscreen users had smoother, more resilient and less wrinkled skin on their hands and presumably on their faces as well. The sunscreen used in the study offered a broad spectrum of protection from both UVA and UVB radiation.
[Annals of Internal Medicine, June 3, 2013]
There is more information on protecting skin from sun safely in our Guide to Skin Care and Treatment.
