By what age does eighty percent of sun damage typically occur?

Eighty percent of sun damage often occurs by the age of 18 due to several factors related to childhood and adolescence. During these formative years, individuals tend to spend significant time outdoors, engaging in activities that expose their skin to UV radiation without adequate sun protection. The skin of young individuals is particularly susceptible to damage from the sun because it is thinner and more delicate than in adults.

Research has shown that early UV exposure, even at a young age, can lead to long-term effects, including skin aging, sunspots, and an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. By age 18, many people have already accumulated a substantial amount of UV exposure, making it a critical age threshold for sun damage. After this age, while additional sun exposure continues to contribute to skin damage, a majority of the initial harmful effects have already occurred.

Understanding this age factor is essential for estheticians and skin care professionals to educate clients about sun safety and the importance of using sunscreen consistently, starting from a young age.