Scientific researchers have looked at the question of whether or not skin sun damage can be reversed.
They have found that some compounds are effective when applied topically.
But, they recommend that the first step is to avoid overexposure.
We need some sunlight in order for the body to produce vitamin D and also because it makes us feel good.
Seasonal depression is believed to be caused by a lack of sunlight.
We might not be like plants that can thrive only in the sun.
But, it is obvious that our bodies are supposed to have sunlight.
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient.
Yet, it is not commonly found in foods.
If we were never supposed to be out in the sun, then our bodies would not need vitamin D.
It only takes a few minutes of sun exposure every day to get enough vitamin D.
Tanning is not necessary.
There is really no such thing as a healthy tan.
It is a natural defense mechanism developed to protect against damaging UV radiation.
It is exposure to UV that is one of the causes of skin aging.
When exposed to UV light, free radical molecules naturally present in the skin's layers multiply and become more active.
The body's natural defense against the free radical is the antioxidant.
When learning about whether or not skin sun damage can be reversed, researchers began looking at antioxidants.
It was known that they could neutralize damaging free radicals, which means they are useful for prevention.
But, it was unclear if the same antioxidants could reverse damages that had already occurred.
One of the first antioxidants identified as beneficial for this purpose was vitamin A.
The prescription wrinkle cream Retin-A is a synthetic form of the vitamin.
Even though the researchers knew that Retin-A could reduce wrinkling, they were still not sure if skin sun damage can be reversed using the cream.
It was difficult to evaluate the results, because Retin-A often causes redness, itching and irritation.
As it turns out, it is probably the synthetic nature of the cream that causes the irritation.
Creams containing extracts that are natural sources of vitamin A or beta-carotene do not cause the irritation.
But, even though other antioxidants are beneficial, the most effective one found to date is coenzyme Q10.
Several studies have now proven that skin sun damage can be reversed with creams containing coenzyme Q10.
The particles must be reduced in size.
Otherwise they will not penetrate.
So, you can't just buy a coenzyme Q10 capsule, pop it open and expect to see results.
It must be properly formulated for use on the skin.
Other compounds that have proven benefits include Shea butter and avocado oil.
Some of the better night creams contain both of those natural compounds.
Avocado oil is a natural source of vitamin A.
It also contains sterolins, which have been shown to reverse age spots.
So, skin sun damage can be reversed.
The best advice is to buy a night cream containing avocado, Shea butter and a nano-emulsion form of coenzyme Q10.
Use it every night and you should see results in no time.