This wonderful season of summer invokes images of beaches picnics camping and pools.  Nearly all of our favorite summer activities include enjoying the warm weather and the brilliant sunshine. However summer's coveted golden rays not only inflict more direct ultraviolet rays our way but they target a much greater surface area as more of our skin is exposed during this season. This unfortunately results in damaged skin cells that are in dire need of nourishment and repair. 

The outermost layer of skin the epidermis is composed of keratinocytes in various levels of maturity containing different amounts of melanin. These cells create the largest physical barrier to protect the body from outside assaults. Often referred to as the body's largest organ this layer of the skin possesses a multitude of functions. The melanin specifically protects the deeper layers of skin from penetrating ultraviolet photons scavenges free radicals that may damage DNA and contains antimicrobial activity 

Damage to keratinocytes from excessive sunlight exposure initially elicits an inflammatory response classically known as sunburn. Further exposure induces apoptosis of keratinocytes followed by a fervent rebuilding of cells to form a more protective barrier. However this latter response leads to the characteristic skin thickening seen in individuals frequently exposed to sunlight. Exposure to UV radiation also encourages free radical production and oxidative damage to cells and their DNA accentuating the DNA damage induced directly by UV photons

Nutrition Support 

Various nutrients have been found to be helpful in repairing keratinocytes and preventing further damage to skin that has been already marred from sunlight. Plant polyphenols have an extraordinary array of benefits for sun-damaged skin including anti-inflammatory immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties.  In one study that followed standard photocarcinogenesis protocolsoral administration of green tea polyphenols resulted in significant protection from skin tumorigenesis and an inhibition of UV radiation-induced cutaneous edema erythema and bi-fold skin thickness. Additionally green tea polyphenols were able to significantly reduce free radical production and damage. Clearly plant polyphenols such as those found in green tea extract olive fruit extract grape seed extract and resveratrol are highly beneficial for sun-damaged skin.

Individual micronutrients may also play an important role in overall skin health. Vitamin A known to be a powerful antioxidant is a naturally occurring constituent of the epidermis and is involved in cell differentiation and turnover. Overexposure to sunlight will quickly deplete the keratinocytes of vitamin A leaving them more prone to oxidative damage from UV radiation.³  Vitamin C also plays a contributory role in reducing initial inflammation from UV radiation and is significantly involved in the healing process. This vitamin aids in the synthesis maturation secretion and degradation of collagen the structural protein found in deep skin layers. Collagen is damaged by frequent or excessive exposure to sunlight and results in signs of early aging including wrinkles fine lines and loss of elasticity. Vitamin C will help to rebuild collagen and prevent the aging effects associated with sun-damaged skin.

When it comes to sun exposure it appears that moderation is the key with the best way to protect the skin from excessive UV radiation is by limiting your exposure to the sun.  Yet there are ample reasons that drive everyone to get outside and enjoy some of those rays. While no nutrient will completely turn back the clock on the effects sunlight has on skin health these nutrients mentioned here do offer some much needed skin protection.

For a further look at skin health please listen to our Clinical Rounds from February 9 2011 The Clear Skin Diet with Valori Treloar MD.