Staying in the sun for too long can do a number on your skin.

While the idea of soaking up the sunshine with a drink in one hand and a nice tan to boot sounds amazing, prolonged exposure to sunlight can do some serious damage to your skin. 

According to 2013 research, UV exposure from the sun alone is responsible for around 80% of visible signs of aging from wrinkles and fine lines to hyperpigmentation, uneven skin texture and sagging skin. 

In addition, "precancerous lesions or actinic keratosis and cancerous skin lesions may also be a long-term effect of sun damage," says Dr. Hope Mitchell, board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Mitchell Dermatology. 

Meanwhile, in the short-term, too much sun exposure can cause mild to severe sunburns. "They may appear as tender or painful, red, swollen areas on your skin, at times with blisters and fever," explains Dr. Mitchell. "Multiple sunburns may increase the risk of melanoma—a potentially deadly form of skin cancer," she adds. 

Over time, ultraviolet radiation from the sun damages the DNA of your skin cells and accelerates the breakdown of collagen, elastic fibers and the supporting structures of your skin which leads to dark spots, wrinkles and other signs of photoaging, says Dr. Lily Talakoub, a board-certified dermatologist and fellow of the American Board of Dermatology. 

Moreover, "sun exposure forces your skin’s DNA to repair and regrow. With time that regrowth can turn into overgrowth also known as overproliferation of cells which leads to skin cancers," explains Dr. Orit Markowitz, board-certified dermatologist and founder of OptiSkin. 

The UVA rays, which have a longer wavelength, are responsible for most of the photodamage as they can penetrate more deeply into your skin, even through the windows and cloud cover. While the UVB rays have a shorter wavelength but higher energy. According to the American Cancer Society, they are the main culprit behind sunburns and can cause direct damage to the DNA in your skin cells. 

"Because photodamage happens in the deepest layers of the skin—the dermis—it can take years before the damage surfaces and becomes visible," notes a Yale School of Medicine report. 

"Studies have shown that while the skin’s DNA has the memory of exposure and continues to break down, it can also decelerate the breakdown process over time when sun exposure decreases," says Dr. Markowitz.

"The earlier you address sun damage, the more likely you may be able to reverse some of the possible consequences," says Dr. Mitchell. 

However, cellular DNA damage resulting from prolonged exposure to sunlight and skin cancer aren't exactly reversible, adds the skin specialist.  

Bottom line: While superficial repair is possible with the help of certain treatments and topicals, DNA damage can't be undone. 

The first and foremost step to reversing photodamage is to stop it in its tracks by using sun protection. "Sunscreen along with sun protective clothing are the best defense," says Dr. Markowitz. 

"To be effective, you must use sun protection every day—even when it’s overcast or cold outside," states the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). 

Here are a few other ways to treat some of the reversible signs of photoaging, according to derms:

And just to reiterate, don't skimp on sunscreen. "If you don’t wear sunscreen with SPF 50 or more daily, nothing will help," says Dr. Talakoub. 

"Sun protection must be intentional and part of your daily routine," Dr. Mitchell agrees. "When going outdoors, apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before exposure and reapply every one to two hours," adds the dermatologist. 

Sunscreens that have mineral physical blockers work the quickest and last the longest. However, the best sunscreen is the brand you enjoy applying and reapply often," says Dr. Markowitz. 

That being said, here are some derm-approved skincare picks to help you stay protected in the sun:

ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50 ($70)

ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50

"This mineral sunscreen contains DNA Repairsomes (reparative enzymes) that have been clinically proven to repair sun damage," says Dr. Mitchell. The lightweight sunscreen not only offers broad-spectrum protection but also supports collagen in the skin and improves skin texture thanks to skin-rejuvenating antioxidants and peptides.  

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 ($39)

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Dr. Markowitz recommends this oil-free sunscreen as a top layer for those who like to add a bit of tint to their complexion. Its non-greasy, fragrance-free formula makes it ideal for both acne-prone and sensitive skin types. 

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 ($45)

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50

For advanced protection, Dr. Mitchell suggests this non-greasy mineral sunscreen that protects your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays as well as blue light, infrared radiation and pollution. The water-resistant sunscreen is available in four different shades that are ideal for a wide range of skin tones—making it easy to blend with your skin for natural coverage.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 ($35.99)

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

This non-comedogenic sunscreen contains UV light filters along with antioxidants to fight free radical damage caused by sun exposure. "It's a great option for people with skin of color or darker skin tones," says Dr. Mitchell.

Dr. Talakoub recommends this mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum coverage without weighing on your skin or clogging your pores. Plus, it's infused with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and caffeine to soothe and calm stressed-out skin.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen SPF 50 ($45.75)

Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen SPF 50

If you prefer powder sunscreen, Dr. Mitchell recommends this dry mineral sunscreen that's free from chemicals. Its non-greasy formula makes it ideal to apply over makeup for on-the-go shine-free touch-ups.   

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 ($20-$34)

Dr. Mitchell recommends this oil-free sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection. Its clear, featherlight and fragrance-free formula makes it suitable for all skin types.