Assessing the impacts of lifetime sun exposure on skin damage and skin aging using a non-invasive method

BackgroundUltraviolet radiation exposure during an individuals' lifetime is a known risk factor for the development of skin cancer. However, less evidence is available on assessing the relationship between lifetime sun exposure and skin damage and skin aging.ObjectivesThis study aims to assess the relationship between lifetime sun exposure and skin damage and skin aging using a non-invasive measure of exposure.MethodsWe recruited 180 participants (73 males, 107 females) aged 18–83 years. Digital imaging of skin hyperpigmentation (skin damage) and skin wrinkling (skin aging) on the facial region was measured. Lifetime sun exposure (presented as hours) was calculated from the participants' age multiplied by the estimated annual time outdoors for each year of life. We analyzed the effects of lifetime sun exposure on skin damage and skin aging. We adjust for the influence of age, sex, occupation, history of skin cancer, eye color, hair color, and skin color.ResultsThere were non-linear relationships between lifetime sun exposure and skin damage and skin aging. Younger participant's skin is much more sensitive to sun exposure than those who were over 50 years of age. As such, there were negative interactions between lifetime sun exposure and age. Age had linear effects on skin damage and skin aging.ConclusionThe data presented showed that self reported lifetime sun exposure was positively associated with skin damage and skin aging, in particular, the younger people. Future health promotion for sun exposure needs to pay attention to this group for skin cancer prevention messaging.

► This is the first study finding the non-linear relationship between lifetime sun exposure and skin damage and skin aging.
► This study finds there is negative interaction between lifetime sun exposure and age for skin damage and aging.
► This study suggests that future health promotion for sun exposure needs to pay attention to youth group for skin cancer prevention messaging.