A pretty common answer, especially from skin care professionals, would likely be sunscreen.

1 is always prevention.

What is sun damage, and what are the effects?

Hannah Frye

When these cells are damaged it leads to genetic defects and mutations.

Can you repair sun damage?

Overall, you could’t repair sun damage completely.

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As far as DNA damage resulting from sun exposure, the options are limited.

However, recent developments have shown promising results.

“This enzyme is activated by UV radiation and works to repair previously acquired UV-induced DNA damage.

It is not innate to humans but can be found commercially inISDIN Eryfotona Actinica.”

Here, a few prevention strategies and some post-sun tips.

How to care for skin pre- and post-sun:

Avoid it in the first place.

For many reasons, avoiding UV exposure completely is just unrealistic.

In fact, as Marcus says, it may be dangerous to your health, skin not included.

“Avoiding sun exposure altogether would cause modifications to lifestyle that might impact mental health,” she says.

However, you should take precautions when you’re headed to a sunny space.

Stop being lazy with SPF.

A single layer of SPF won’t suffice for those long days in the sun.

We knowthis seems excessive.

Apply and ingest antioxidants.

Topical antioxidants (thinkvitamin C, CoQ10, etc.)

can provide alayer of protection4against UV damage.

“Oral antioxidants may be somewhat helpful as well, especially astaxanthin,” Marcus says.

“Tan” responsibly.

In fact, it’s one of the more dangerous routes to take.

Instead, get your sun-kissed look from alternative tanning methods like self-tanner.

Not sure where to start?

Here’s a list of our favoriteclean self-tannersthat will help you replace sunbathing for good.

Hydrate your skin post-sun.

If you’re wearing enough sunscreen and reapplying frequently, your risk of burn is pretty minimal.

However, it still happens.

Instead, look for barrier-supporting ingredients likealoe vera, squalene,shea butter, etc.

Here, a list of our favoritefragrance-free body lotionsperfect for this purpose.

The takeaway.

So instead, focus on prevention and proper post-sun care.

If you want to learn more, check out our guide to all thingssun care.