Every summer, we read stories in the media about the importance of applying sunscreen every day. If you're one of the many people who enjoys a nice tan during the warmer seasons, then this advice can be easy to ignore - after all, how bad can it be to skip the lotion one or two days a week? You may change your tune, however, after learning about a new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, which suggests that regular applications of sunscreen can make a big difference in the appearance of your skin.

Avoid that leathery look
Researchers gathered a group of individuals younger than 55 and asked them to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to their head, neck, arms and hands every morning after bathing, after spending more than a few hours in direct sunlight, or after perspiring heavily. Another group was asked to apply sunscreen "at their discretion." To act as a control group, some participants were given placebo pills or daily B-carotene supplements daily. Researchers took impressions of the back of the participants' hands at the initiation of the study and again 4.5 years later. These impressions were able to show microscopic changes in the skin, including signs of aging. 

According to the Wall Street Journal, the participants who used sunscreen on a daily basis showed 24 percent less skin aging compared to individuals who were allowed to apply lotion at their own discretion.

"This is great fodder for us to encourage people to use sunscreen," dermatologist Jeffrey Dover told the news source. "I will quote this paper every day."

Years in the sun
This study may prompt young people to protect their skin from the sun, but what about those of us who have already begun to show signs of aging? While it's still a good idea to apply sunscreen to prevent further wrinkles from appearing, it may be wise to book an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss anti-aging options. Photorejuvination is one procedure that can eliminate sun spots and other signs of aging on the skin, including on the hands where they're often most evident. For deep wrinkles on the face, dermal fillers or a facelift may be better options.