Since 90% of skin aging related damage is attributed to the Sun. It is vital to have and follow consistent rules when dealing with the Sun's rays.

It is essential for a person at any age, but in particular, for younger people when less thought is given to the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays.

1. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A “HEALTHY TAN”

A tan is a sign of skin injury. The notion of a base tan or "healthy" tan created without sunscreen is a misnomer.

When tanning, your skin produces melanin to protect itself against further UV ray-induced skin & DNA damage.

2. SUNSCREEN IS AN EVERY DAY THING.

Most skin damage comes from the Sun. However, it occurs when you aren't expecting it.

It's on cloudy days when driving or walking to work, or during cold months when you let your guard down.

Consistently apply sunscreen all year round!

3. FOLLOW THE TWO-HOUR RULE.

You can't just avoid the Sun. And staying active in the Sun can improve your mood & Vitamin D levels.

If you do go outdoors, commit to reapplying sunscreen every two hours. If you are active, sweating or in water, be sure to reapply more frequently.

Lastly, the Sun is most powerful between 10 am and 4 pm.

4. GET A YEARLY FULL-BODY SCAN.

It might be costly - but if you can afford it, do it! Some clinics may even offer the service for free.

Lesions that are caught early are easier to treat. While there, also ask the doctor to assess any new or changing dark spots.

5. ANTIOXIDANTS.

Antioxidants combat free radicals that damage healthy cells. Many things, including UV rays, cause free radicals.

Some antioxidants can be applied directly to your skin or ingested from your diet for better effect.

Don't forget that optimizing your nutrition for cell turnover helps combat skin-related damage and improve skin appearance.