Once sun damage becomes evident on the skin, it can be difficult to reverse using topical creams alone. There are, however, a variety of non-invasive treatments that are very effective at rejuvenating sun-damaged skin. At the Proage Institute of Regenerative Medicine, located in Sugar Land, TX and Brownsville, TX, we always recommend starting with the least invasive treatment possible that will create results with minimal downtime.
Healing Sun Damage at the Earliest Possible Stage
While it is never too late to begin taking care of your skin, treating sun damage before it becomes too severe is always a good idea. As your body’s production of collagen and elastin begins to slow down with age, it becomes increasingly difficult for the skin to bounce back. As soon as you begin to notice any of the following signs of sun damage, it is definitely time to seek treatment:
- Fine lines or deepening wrinkles
- Loose, crepey skin
- Sunspots
- Redness or discoloration
- Spider veins
At What Age is Treatment Usually Needed?
The age at which people begin to notice sun damage can vary dramatically. If you spent a great deal of time outdoors as a child or teenager, you might even begin to notice signs of damage as soon as your mid-20’s. If you have taken good care of your skin and used sunscreen on a regular basis, you might not notice any of the signs noted above until your late 30’s or even 40’s.
Much of the aging process comes down to genetics as well. Some people are more genetically predisposed to sun sensitivity (particularly natural blondes and redheads), and as such will likely notice skin damage sooner.
The Best Options for Treating Sun-Damaged Skin
If you are seeking treatment early on while your skin still has elasticity left, you will likely see very good results from non-invasive treatments that require little to no downtime. The following are some of the best treatments available today for reversing the effects of sun exposure.
Medical Peels
A professionally administered skin peel is an excellent way to safely remove the top layer of skin, revealing the fresher, healthier skin below. This exfoliating facial treatment can be adjusted to suit the level of skin damage you wish to address (for example, very damaged skin will benefit from a deeper peel).
A more intense peel will of course achieve more dramatic results, however, your provider will need to examine your skin beforehand to determine what type and concentration of peel will be suitable for you.
Botox and Xeomin
People with sun damage will begin to show deeper lines around their mouth and eyes at an earlier age. A good way to address this is through an injectable treatment that will temporarily immobilize the small muscle movements that contribute to these wrinkles. Botox and Xeomin, injected in just the right spots and at the appropriate intervals, will relax and smooth out the wrinkles that have been caused by sun exposure and other factors.
Dermal Fillers
The latest dermal fillers are designed to mimic your skin’s own collagen and hyaluronic acid content, creating a soft and natural look. Carefully placed filler can plump out even the deepest lines, instantly creating a more youthful appearance. These injectables can also be effective for filling out the loose and crepey skin that a lifetime of sun exposure can cause.
Laser Treatments
Skin lasering is truly a miracle technology that can address a wide range of dermal problems, from scar removal to vein reduction. Lasers can also be used to resurface the skin, as an alternative to a chemical peel. For sun damage, a laser works primarily by removing the top layer of skin. At the same time, the deeper layer of skin is being heated, which promotes collagen production.
What Results to Expect
Depending on the treatment you choose, you may notice results right away or after a few days. If you are choosing a filler, then the results will be evident immediately. In the case of Botox or Xeomin, it might take a couple of weeks for the wrinkles to smooth out, but once they have, it is easy to maintain the results through regular follow-up visits.
If you are having a peel or laser treatment, the full results should be evident within the first week following treatment. Your provider will give you some at-home care tips to pamper your skin and keep it glowing.
How to Maintain Results
The number one way to take care of your skin following treatment, and to minimize future sun damage, is to avoid the sun. If you must be in the sun for an extended period, it is important to use a high-quality sunscreen that includes broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Wearing a hat is also a great way to add an extra layer of protection between your face and the sun.
If you are ready to take care of the signs of sun damage that may be popping up on your face, neck, or hands, contact us today at the Proage Institute of Regenerative Medicine. We have offices in Sugar Land, TX and Brownsville, TX, and would be pleased to set up a consultation at either location.
