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How To Get Rid Of Sun Damage

Written by WD Staff, Skin Care Specialists on July 25, 2016 • 4 Comments

sun damage treatments

The link between the sun and skin damage is extremely clear: continual exposure to both UVA and UVB rays results in numerous forms of skin damage as well as accelerated aging. Continual sun exposure wreaks havoc on the skin; resulting in pigmentation problems, wrinkle development, thickened skin, and skin cancer development.

The best defense against sun damage is to practice sound sun safety. Preventative measures like wearing a high quality sunscreen and staying out of the sun during peak hours are very important. But what happens if you’re too late? Is there a way to reverse sun damage?

Here’s more information on how sun damage happens along with some great treatments to get rid of sun damage.

How the sun damages our skin

When UV rays penetrate the skin, a form of radiation is transferred which interacts with melanin, a naturally produced substance of the skin. Melanin serves a shield, absorbing the UV rays to limit damage to your DNA. Tanning is the body’s natural response to the interaction between UV radiation and melanin. However, when the amount of UV exposure exceeds the protection provided by your body’s melanin level you get a sun burn.

Continual overexposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays produces various forms of skin damage and photo aging including:

 4 great treatments for skin damage

  1. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are topically applied formulas that revitalize the skin surface by creating an even and controlled shedding of the skin cells. Regularly undergoing chemical peels can help improve sun damage while leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. Learn more about superficial, medium depth, and deep peels.
  2. Laser Resurfacing: Laser treatments deliver targeted laser light to the skin to improve the appearance of sun damaged skin. Laser resurfacing can smooth fine lines and wrinkles, correct uneven pigmentation, and completely rejuvenate the skin. Today, there are many different kinds of laser treatments to address all different skin types and issues.
  3. Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion targets sun damage by removing the topmost layer of the skin; leaving behind newer skin that looks and feels more vibrant. Microdermabrasion also initiates the skin to grow new healthy cells which can lead to long-term improvements in both tone and texture.
  4. Skin Lightening Products: There are many great topical skin brightening products that can address pigmentation issues stemming from sun exposure. Lytera by SkinMedica is an at-home daily serum that is great for addressing minor pigmentation. For more moderate to severe cases, the Cosmelan Skin Lightening System is highly effective.

 

WD Staff

A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.

4 Responses to “How To Get Rid Of Sun Damage”

  1. Avatar Jim says:
    July 20, 2017 at 4:59 pm

    I have several areas on my face and neck that are darker than the rest of my face. Is this something you can fix?

    Thank you!

    Jim

    Reply
    • WD Staff WD Staff says:
      July 24, 2017 at 2:52 pm

      Hi Jim, Thanks for reading our post and submitting your question! There are a few treatments (from topical medications to laser-based treatments) that may address your specific issues. The best course of treatment will depend upon characteristics of your skin and previous health history.

      Please give us a call at 512.328.3376 to setup an appointment!

      Thanks,
      WD Staff

      Reply
  2. Avatar Susan says:
    October 1, 2020 at 5:34 pm

    What is the best treatment for sun damage on arms?

    Reply
    • WD Staff WD Staff says:
      October 5, 2020 at 4:02 am

      Hi Susan,

      Thanks for reading our post and submitting your great question. There’s some great laser treatments for sun damage on the arms. Depending on severity the ideal treatment may range from Intense Pulse Light to something for invasive like Fraxel resurfacing.

      As always, we recommend getting an in-person consultation to find out which treatment is required for your specific needs. If you are in Texas, please feel free to call us for a consultation.

      Thanks,
      WD Staff

      Reply

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