Vegan Friendly

Skincare that’s as kind to your skin as it is to the planet

Cruelty Free

Ethically crafted skincare, never tested on animals

Paraben Free

Pure skincare, free from parabens for a healthier glow

Vegetal Ingredients

Vegetal formulas crafted by our scientific manager

chevron_left chevron_right
How To Repair Sun Damage: The Anti‑Ageing Protocol Dermatologists Recommend

How To Repair Sun Damage: The Anti‑Ageing Protocol Dermatologists Recommend

Sun damage isn’t just about sunburn it’s a major factor in premature skin ageing, or photoageing. In Australia, this is especially relevant: according to the most recent research, many Australians don’t realise just how deeply UV exposure affects the way our skin ages. A national YouGov survey, commissioned by iNova Pharmaceuticals and supported by the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Dermatologists (ASCD), found that six out of ten Australians are unaware that sun exposure is the biggest contributor to visible facial ageing, even though it may account for up to 80% of what makes skin appear older. (PR Newswire)

This lack of awareness is concerning, particularly when paired with how many Australians are actually getting sunburnt or skimping on protection. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, collected between November 2023 and February 2024, revealed that just 38.1% of Australians aged 15 and over used SPF 30 or higher sunscreen on most days during that period. (Australian Bureau of Statistics) Even more startling, one in 14 people (6.9%) reported being sunburnt in the week before the survey, with young people far more likely to burn than older age groups. (Australian Bureau of Statistics)

On top of that, only around 53.9% of Australians used three or more sun protection strategies (like sunscreen, shade, a hat) when exposed to peak UV. These figures clearly show a gap not just in behaviour, but in understanding that makes repairing sun damage a critical goal for many.

Why Sun Damage Ages Us More Than We Think

Sun exposure does more than cause tanning or occasional burns it affects the very structure of our skin. Ultraviolet (UV) rays break down collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that give our skin its firmness and elasticity. Over time, this leads to sagging, fine lines, and deeper wrinkles.

Moreover, UV exposure stimulates pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) to produce more melanin, often resulting in age spots, dark patches, and uneven skin tone. Chronic sun exposure also creates oxidative stress in the skin, producing free radicals that damage cellular structures. This damage accumulates, and even the skin’s protective barrier becomes weakened, leading to dryness, sensitivity, and a rough, less resilient texture.

A further dimension of this problem is how fast ageing may manifest in Australians. Research published in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology compared facial ageing in Australian women versus women in the U.S, UK, and Canada. The study found that Australian women reported more severe facial lines and volume loss (such as in the tear troughs and nasolabial folds) up to 20 years earlier than their U.S. counterparts suggesting that environmental factors, notably high UV exposure, may play a large role. (PubMed).

Dermatologist-Backed Protocol to Repair Photoageing

Dermatologists strongly advocate for a multi-step, consistent approach when repairing sun damage. While prevention remains the foundation, effective repair includes antioxidants, renewal actives, exfoliation, and barrier rebuilding.

1. Prioritise Sun Protection

Before any anti-ageing treatment can truly take effect, it’s vital to stop further UV damage. Dermatologists emphasize daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA + UVB), reapplication when outdoors, and combining sunscreen with physical protection such as wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak UV hours. These measures aren’t just about cancer prevention they’re about preserving collagen, preventing pigmentation, and reducing oxidative stress. In fact, reports suggest only around half of Australians regularly use three or more protection measures during peak UV, highlighting how much opportunity there is for behavioural change.

2. Start with Gentle Cleansing

Sun-damaged skin often has a compromised barrier, so it’s important to use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Over-cleansing or using harsh soaps can worsen dryness and irritation, undermining repair efforts. A mild cleansing routine helps maintain skin integrity and allows active ingredients to penetrate more effectively.

3. Use Antioxidants Every Day

To counteract the free radicals generated by UV exposure, antioxidants are essential. Vitamin C is a gold standard it not only neutralises damaging oxidants but also supports collagen production and helps fade pigmentation. Other beneficial ingredients include niacinamide, Vitamin E, and peptides. Your Karin Herzog anti-ageing line pairs beautifully with this approach. Their E&R Pro Booster serum, for example, delivers oxygen to skin cells, helping to fuel regeneration and support the antioxidant-driven repair process.

4. Boost Renewal with Vitamin A / Retinoids

Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) remain one of the most effective anti‑ageing compounds. They accelerate cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and help fade age spots. Because retinoids can irritate, dermatologists recommend easing in gradually: start with a lower strength a few times per week and increase as your skin adapts, ideally applying only at night due to the increased photosensitivity. Karin Herzog offers Vita-A-Kombi Oxygen Creams (1% and 2%), which combine active oxygen with retinoid-like activity. This dual-action formula supports skin renewal, promoting deeper regeneration and helping reverse the structural damage caused by UV exposure.

5. Be Consistent, Patient, and Gentle

It’s important to set realistic expectations. Repairing sun damage takes time and perseverance. During the first few weeks, you might experience mild dryness or sensitivity, especially when introducing retinoids or acids. That’s normal. Focus on hydration, using your oxygen-powered creams to support the barrier and soothe. Within two to three months, you may notice smoother texture, improved tone, and better hydration. Six months or more of consistent care and sun protection can yield firmer skin, less visible pigmentation, and an overall more youthful glow. The key is to stay consistent and, crucially, maintain sun safety so your progress isn’t undone.

Why Karin Herzog’s Anti‑Ageing Collection Is Ideal for Repairing Sun-Damaged Skin

What makes the Karin Herzog collection so well-suited for photoageing is its foundation in active oxygen technology. This stabilised oxygen boosts cellular respiration, which helps fuel skin repair from the inside out. Rather than just “treating” visible signs, these products support your skin at a deeper, more fundamental level. The collection’s inclusion of vitamin A (retinol), peptides, AHAs, and hyaluronic acid aligns perfectly with what dermatologists recommend for reversing sun damage. Whether you’re using the Vita-A-Kombi creams, the AHA Face cream, or the Oxygen Hyalu Lift, you’re benefiting from formulations designed to rebuild, hydrate, and renew all while being gentle enough for sensitive, already stressed skin.

What to Expect and Common Concerns

When people begin a photoageing repair protocol, they often worry about irritation, especially when introducing acids or retinoids. It’s very common to feel some tightness or dryness in the first week or two this is where the oxygen-powered moisturisers from Karin Herzog come into their own. Their stabilised oxygen supports regeneration and can help soothe the skin as it adapts. For those with particularly sensitive skin, it’s smart to start slowly: use AHA just two nights per week, and begin with the 1% Oxygen Cream every third night. As tolerance builds, you can increase frequency. Always do a patch test when introducing a new active.

If pigmentation or volume loss is more advanced, topical products might not fully correct everything. Dermatologists may recommend combining your at-home regimen with in-clinic treatments like peels or IPL to accelerate and deepen results. But even in these cases, having a robust daily routine with Karin Herzog products helps maintain and enhance the outcomes of such treatments.

The Bigger Picture: Why Repair Matters

Given how common sun exposure is in Australia and how many people underestimate its role in ageing a repair protocol isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s almost essential for long-term skin health, confidence, and appearance. The Re.Think Skin report also uncovered a psychological burden: 62% of Australians say facial ageing affects their confidence, and 57% feel anxiety about how they look. (mma.prnewswire.com)

Repairing skin isn’t just about looking younger. It’s about restoring resilience, rebuilding lost volume, and protecting your future skin health. With the right routine one that’s evidence-based and built around oxygen-powered anti-ageing formulas like those from Karin Herzog these are very achievable goals.

Sun damage is a powerful ageing factor, but it’s not irreversible. By combining prevention, scientifically backed actives, and consistency, it’s possible to significantly repair photoageing. The Karin Herzog Anti‑Ageing Collection offers a uniquely effective toolkit for this work: oxygen-infused formulas that energise skin regeneration, carefully formulated actives like retinoids and AHAs, and deeply hydrating support to rebuild the skin barrier.

 Shop Anti-Ageing Collection

E&R Pro Booster 15ml - Karin Herzog

E&R Pro Booster 15ml

Regular price $199.00 AUD
Regular price $0.00 AUD Sale price $199.00 AUD
Unit price  per 
View product
Vita-A-Kombi with AHA 50ml - Karin Herzog #

Vita-A-Kombi with AHA 50ml

Regular price $129.00 AUD
Regular price $0.00 AUD Sale price $129.00 AUD
Unit price  per 
View product

Sold out

AHA Exfoliation Face Cream (50ml) - Karin Herzog

AHA Exfoliation Face Cream (50ml)

Regular price $99.00 AUD
Regular price $0.00 AUD Sale price $99.00 AUD
Unit price  per 
View product
Oxygen Hyalu Lift 30ml - Karin Herzog

Oxygen Hyalu Lift 30ml

Regular price $195.00 AUD
Regular price $0.00 AUD Sale price $195.00 AUD
Unit price  per 
View product
Karin Herzog Vita-A Anti-Ageing Cream with oxygen formula.

Vita-A-Kombi Anti Ageing Cream 1% Oxygen (50ml)

Regular price $129.00 AUD
Regular price Sale price $129.00 AUD
Unit price  per 
View product

by Johnna Mae Yodico – November 26, 2025