Posted: April 19, 2021
UV rays are powerful. Without them, there is no life. Without protection from them, however, they can be damaging to the skin. This makes daily use of a full-spectrum sunscreen very important. Even in the winter. Even when you aren’t spending much time outdoors. It is always a good idea to wear sunscreen.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Sunscreen reduces the risk of developing certain skin cancers by 40 to 50%. Even so, it is best to seek shade during peak sun hours (between 10 am and 4 pm) and to wear protective clothing like long sleeves and sunhats when going outside.
Sun Damaged Skin
Skin cancer is a huge concern with UV exposure, but not the only problem the sun can cause. Issues related to UV exposure include:
- Hyperpigmentation
- Sunspots
- Excessively dry skin
- Sunburn
- Actinic keratosis
- Fine lines and deep wrinkles
UV exposure can result in a loss of collagen, a protein necessary for smooth, full, and attractive skin. This can result in premature aging, skin laxity, and deep wrinkles. The sun can also burn, dry, and color the skin, sometimes resulting in lasting damage to tone and texture. Sunscreen and smart clothing can help reduce this impact. They may not be able to prevent it. That’s where cosmetic treatments come in.
Treating Sun Damage
Some of the most common cosmetic treatments for sun-damaged skin include:
In many cases, sun damage is topical, allowing it to be effectively treated through ablative treatments. Nonsurgical but still very effective, peels, laser treatments, and microdermabrasion help to reduce visible signs of sun damage, aging, and other skin imperfections, while also stimulating collagen, which can help produce longer-lasting results. The best way to learn which of these treatments is right for your needs is through a one-on-one consultation at the Indianapolis office of Dr. Joseph Fata.
Please call Renaissance Plastic Surgery at 317-575-9152 to schedule a consultation today. We welcome patients from Carmel, Noblesville, and all surrounding areas of Indiana.
