Why skin ages: intrinsic vs extrinsic factors
Skin aging is not just about getting older; it results from two intertwined processes. Intrinsic aging is the natural, gradual decline of skin cells and collagen over time. Extrinsic aging is driven by external factors, with sun exposure at the top of the list. In Canada, where seasons vary wildly, this daily battle plays out on almost every face.
Dermatologists emphasize that a large portion of visible aging comes from the sun. The sun sends two main rays to Earth: UVA and UVB. UVA rays travel deep into the dermis, weakening collagen and elastin fibers that keep skin taut. UVB rays primarily affect the surface, causing sunburn and DNA damage. Over years, the combination of both forms of radiation shows up as wrinkles, age spots, and changes in texture.
According to estimates cited by the Canadian Dermatology Association, about 90% of visible aging on sun-exposed skin is attributable to sun exposure. That’s why daily sun protection isn’t a vanity habit—it’s a health habit that can affect how your skin ages over decades.
Two striking images have circulated in recent years: protected skin versus sun-exposed skin. They remind us that what you see on the surface is often the tip of the iceberg. The best protection today also supports long-term skin health and reduces cancer risk.
UVA vs UVB: how each ray ages skin (and why it matters)
UVB rays are the main culprits behind sunburn and DNA damage that can drive skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate more deeply, accelerating photoaging by breaking down collagen and elastin in the dermis. Because both types reach the skin during everyday exposure, dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum sunscreens that guard against both UVA and UVB, applied consistently year-round.
Beyond cosmetics, this photodamage translates into more than lines and pigment spots. Repeated exposure increases the risk of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Protecting your skin is a preventive health measure with long-term payoff.
A real-world look at our skin age
Inspired by a well-known investigative report, my colleague and I decided to have our skin analyzed by a medico-esthetic clinic. A machine maps wrinkles, pore texture, and pigmentation to estimate our skin age against our real age. The goal isn’t vanity—it’s health: to quantify how much damage exposure has wrought and how protection might change the picture.
The contrast between unprotected sun-exposed areas and protected skin is often dramatic. The session highlights not only cosmetic differences but also the underlying risk: continued UV exposure accelerates aging and raises cancer risk. The data we’ll share next will help translate science into everyday choices.
Practical steps to protect skin every day
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher is a must, rain or shine. Apply generously to the face, neck, ears, and any exposed areas, and reapply every two hours when outdoors or after sweating or swimming. Pair sunscreen with protective clothing: wide-brim hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours (roughly 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Remember that reflective surfaces like snow or water can increase UV exposure even on overcast days.
Be mindful of vitamin D. While some sun is beneficial, most people can meet their needs through diet and supplements without prolonged sun exposure. If you’re unsure about your vitamin D level, talk to a clinician about a personalized plan.
Why this matters for health, not just looks
Sun exposure is a major driver of skin cancers, and protecting skin now can reduce risk later. The aim is to preserve skin health and function over time, rather than chasing the illusion of a perpetually sun-kissed complexion.
What we’ll learn next
My colleague and I will soon share the results of our skin-age analysis. The numbers may surprise us, but they’ll serve as a clear reminder: the best way to keep your skin healthy and younger-looking in the long run is to protect it every day.
