Prolonged sun exposure causes changes in skin cells that can lead to premature aging of the skin and sun damage. Reverse the signs with our various treatments, including laser therapy, chemical peels, skin needling, cosmeceuticals and more.
Understanding the Impact of Sun Damage
One of the most common skin conditions we are asked to treat is sun damage caused by excessive sun exposure.
The sun damages our skin in several ways: Ultraviolet radiation (or UV radiation) damages the DNA in your skin cells and the cells become unable to replace themselves normally. Instead, they replicate as abnormal precancerous or cancerous cells. UV exposure relates to both UVA and UVB rays. UVA is commonly associated with photoaging while UVB is associated with sunburn.
UV rays damage the collagen and elastin in our skin and also cause fine lines & wrinkles as well as lax & sagging skin. Abnormal discolouration, brown spots and patches, as well as scaly skin, small blood vessels and redness can also develop, leading to early skin ageing.
Common Signs of Sun Damage
Skin damage caused by excessive sun exposure can present itself in many different ways. Photoaging is premature aging of the skin caused by UVA and UVB rays. This can include pigmentation, such as brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles, broken capillaries and melasma where patches of brown pigment appear on the face.
Your skin is also at risk of developing lesions and growths that can turn into skin cancer, including melanomas and actinic keratosis which begin as scaly spots on the skin.
Preventing Sun Damage
The best way to prevent sunburn and sun damage to the skin is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a 30+ SPF rating whenever you go outside. You can also take extra measures, for sun protection, such as sit in the shade where possible and wear protective clothing, including hats, sunglasses and long sleeves.
Sun Damage Treatments Available
At Me Clinic, we offer numerous treatments for sun damaged skin. With over 35 years’ experience in skin, facial rejuvenation and cosmetic medicine, our treatments and treatment plans can effectively deal with any skin condition and problem you may have, while also slowing down and reversing the skin’s ageing process.
Some of out treatment options include:
Laser Treatments for Sun Damage
Laser is a popular method for treating the effects of sun damage to the skin. CO2 laser can effectively treat lines and wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, cheek and forehead while also treating sun spots, age spots, sunburn and more. Other laser options include Erbium Laser, Fraxel Laser, Aura Laser, Laser Genesis and YAG Laser which can be used to treat red marks on the skin. YAG laser light is also effective in treating melasma as it is absorbed by melanin in the skin and penetrates deep to correct hyperpigmentation.
Chemical Peels and Sun Damage
Chemical peels involve applying a special solution to the skin to remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new cells. These peels are effective in firming the skin, smoothing skin texture, reducing wrinkles and correcting pigmentation.
Benefits of Sun Damage Treatments
With the right treatment, it is possible to reduce the impact of harmful UV rays to the skin. From laser to peels, our sun damage treatments can help to:
- Remove growths and lesions
- Fade hyperpigmentation, scarring and redness
- Improve skin texture and tone
- Smooth lines and wrinkles
- Increase elastin for firmer skin
- Treat broken capillaries
- Minimise large pores and more
Post-Treatment Care for Sun Damage
If you have been sunburned, you can apply cold compresses to the area or bathe in cool water to relieve the pain. Drink plenty of water to ensure you are not dehydrated. Avoid petroleum-based products on sunburned skin as they can trap in heat.
Managing Sun Damage Long Term
You can avoid the effects of sun damage long-term by always using a 30+ SPF sunscreen on exposed skin areas when outside. Cosmeceuticals are medical-grade skincare products that can be purchased from our dermal aesthetician and worked into your routine for rejuvenated skin. These include products packed with ingredients like retinoids, vitamin d and antioxidants including vitamin c.
