Sun Damage | Victoria BC | Glow Luxe

What is Sun Damage?

Sun damage refers to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on the skin, resulting in premature aging, dark spots, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Prolonged UV exposure breaks down collagen, accelerates pigmentation, and damages skin cells, leading to uneven tone, texture changes, and conditions like actinic keratosis.

Sun damage is a common skin concern for many individuals who have spent time in the sun without proper UV protection. If you're a child of the 70's or 80's you probably know what we're talking about. The effects of prolonged sun exposure can be concerning, as it can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, age spots, and an uneven skin tone. 

What Does Sun Damage Look Like?

Sun damage results from unprotected UV exposure and can lead to visible changes in the skin, often referred to as photo-aging. Common signs include:

1. Wrinkles and Fine Lines

UV rays break down collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles and fine lines, especially on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands. Boosting collagen production is key to improving skin quality.

2. Age Spots and Hyperpigmentation

Also known as sun spots or liver spots, these dark, flat patches form on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, shoulders, and arms, giving skin an older appearance.

3. Uneven Skin Tone

Sun damage often leads to discoloration, including redness, blotchiness, or a ruddy complexion, contributing to an uneven and aged look.

Proper protection and targeted treatments can help repair and restore damaged skin.

How Can I Treat My Sun Damage?

Many effective treatments are available for repairing sun-damaged skin. While it's essential to protect your skin from further sun damage by using sunscreen daily and wearing protective clothing, here are some clinic-based treatments to consider:

1. Chemical Peels:

Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin to remove the damaged outer layer. This helps reduce the appearance of sunspots, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Different types of chemical peels are available, ranging from superficial to deep, depending on the severity of sun damage.

2. Laser Or IPL Therapy:

Light based treatments, such as the "Gold Standard" intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, can target specific skin concerns related to sun damage. These treatments can help stimulate collagen production, reduce pigmentation issues, and improve overall skin texture for a younger appearance. IPL can be found under a variety of brands names, so don't let a brand name confuse you.

3. LED Light Therapy:

LED based treatments can help target specific skin concerns related to collagen and elastin damage. These treatments can help stimulate collagen production, improve overall skin texture and soften lines and wrinkles for a younger appearance. Studies show LED light therapy can actually affect the chronological age of a persons skin.

4. Microdermabrasion:

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that uses a mildly abrasive wand or product (think GlowBright (exclusively at GlowLuxe), SilkPeel or Hydrafacial) to exfoliate the skin's surface. It can improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin by reducing fine lines, age spots, and mild scarring. While these can be helpful, we recommend limiting frequency except under certain circumstances in order to maintain a healthy skin barrier function. 

5. Topical Treatments:

Qualified skin experts can recommend topical treatments containing ingredients like Tranexamic Acid, Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Azelaic Acid, certain antioxidants, and hydroquinone (not our favourite) to address sun damage. These products can help fade sunspots, smooth wrinkles, and improve skin texture over time.

Can Sun Damage Be Repaired?

—yes, it can! Recognizing the signs of sun damage, including wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone, is the first step. Clinic-based treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and topical treatments offer effective solutions to repair and rejuvenate sun-damaged skin. Even so, prevention remains the best strategy, so always protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays with sunscreen and protective clothing.

Remember, when seeking treatments for sun-damaged skin, consult a qualified skincare professional to determine the most appropriate and effective options for your specific needs. By addressing sun damage promptly, you can achieve healthier, more radiant skin while reducing the risk of skin cancer in the long run.

Not sure about the next step? We offer a free consultation! Call us today at 250.590.5459