UVA
UVA, which is short for ultraviolet type A, is one of the most harmful forms of UV rays given off by the sun. Coupled with UVB rays, these two are responsible for millions of cases of sun damaged skin and skin cancer. However, A type rays are not the same as UVB rays and it is important to know the difference.
UVA rays are responsible for causing the signs of premature aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. This is possible due to the fact that they have long-wave solar rays, which allow them to penetrate into the skin where they do their damage. Unlike UVB rays, which cause sunburn (eventually leading to an increase in the odds of developing skin cancer) A type rays work to cause what is known as photoaging. Common signs of photoaging include extreme leathering, sagging, and wrinkling of the skin. Chances are you've seen men and women with skin that appears tough, coarse, creased with deep wrinkles, and are also very tanned. This is a prime example of someone suffering from sun damage due to too much exposure to these rays.
Medical experts now believe that while UVA isn't responsible for skin cancer, the damage it does to the skin can enhance the effects as well as the development of skin cancer caused by UVB ray exposure. In order to protect yourself and your family from the damaging effects of these rays, it is vital that you wear sunscreen or sun block each time you plan on being out in the sun for a certain period of time. Make sure you stay protected as well by making sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours. Only by practicing good sun care habits and using the right products can you avoid the negative effects A type rays can have on your skin.
For those already suffering from UVA damage, there are a few options for treating sun damaged skin. The signs of photoaging can be corrected or minimized by treatments such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser resurfacing. All of these procedures work to remove the outermost layers of the skin in order to promote the production of new, healthy skin cells. The laser resurfacing penetrates to the deeper skin layers to correct the damaged cells and tissue, allowing for fresher and more youthful skin cells to appear. It is important to find a licensed and professional doctor to perform the procedure you are interested in. Be sure to get referrals and always ask for before and after photos.
