Sun Damaged Skin
How can the sun damage skin?
Sun-damaged skin refers to the skin changes and conditions that result from prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The sun emits UVA and UVB rays, both of which will damage the skin over time. Sun damage can manifest in various ways, including:
Sunburn: Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to excessive UV radiation, leading to redness, pain, and peeling.
Hyperpigmentation: Prolonged sun exposure can cause an overproduction of melanin, resulting in dark spots, freckles, or uneven skin tone.
Wrinkles and premature aging: UV rays can break down collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, leading to the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Actinic keratoses: These are rough, scaly patches that develop on sun-exposed areas and can potentially progress to skin cancer if left untreated.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer and minimise the effects of sun damaged skin, the following measures are recommended.
Caring for your skin
Sun protection: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to all exposed skin, including the face, neck, and hands. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses. Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can be just as damaging as natural sunlight. Avoid using tanning beds to reduce the risk of kin damage and skin cancer.
Regular skin checks: Perform self-examinations to check for any new or changing moles, lesions, or suspicious growths. Schedule regular professional skin examinations with a doctor who has fully trained In the use of a dermascope (skin microscope) to monitor and detect any signs of skin cancer.
From an aesthetic perspective, several treatment options can help improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin:
Treatment options for sun damaged skin
Topical treatments: Retinoids, antioxidants, and skin lightening agents can be used topically to address hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin texture due to excessive sun exposure. These products help promote cell turnover, reduce pigmentation, and improve overall skin health.
Dermal micro-needling: . Dermal Micro-needling is a minimally invasive non surgical procedure that utilizes a needling device to create thousands of fine, vertical channels (micro-injuries) in the skin. The micro- injuries trigger a cascade of wound healing activity that results in the generation of healthy new collagen. Essentially the old skin in replaced with new healthy skin which is plump, firm and hydrated. Dermal micro-needling can help reduce hyperpigmentation, improve skin texture, and minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Dermal injectables: Dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid can help restore lost volume and plump up areas affected by sun damage. Neurotoxin injections, such as Botox, can also be used to temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Prescription medicines: Prescription medications such as 5-Flurouracil (Efudix) will treat actinic keratoses (white rough lesions)
It's essential to consult with an experienced fully qualified cosmetic practitioner to determine the most suitable treatment options for addressing sun-damaged skin. They can assess your specific concerns, evaluate the extent of sun damage, and recommend a personalised treatment plan to suit your individual needs.
