Sun Damage

Ultraviolet (UV) light isn’t comparable to the lights you use in your home: It can cause damage deep within your skin cells, which can lead to tangible issues like roughness, wrinkles, and spots. At Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists in Trumbull, Westport, and Derby, Connecticut, expert dermatologists use customizable procedures like chemical peels and laser therapy to minimize these damages and make your skin brighter and smoother. To find out how to manage and care for your sun-damaged skin, call Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.

What is sun damage?

Sun damage refers to the changes that ultraviolet (UV) light makes to your skin. Even if you don’t get skin cancer, harmful UV rays, either directly from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning booths, can alter your skin’s texture and cause damage even if you don’t get sunburn. 

You can go for years or even decades being completely unaware of your skin's sun damage. This is because it affects the dermis, a layer of skin beneath the surface. Eventually, when the damages come to the surface, you can see changes in how your skin looks. 

You can prevent or minimize sun damage by wearing sunscreen when you go outside and by avoiding tanning booths altogether. Fortunately, there are professional dermatological treatments available for sun damage that has already occurred. 

What does sun damage look like?

Signs of sun damage can appear as early as your late teens or early twenties and can include:

• Roughness
• Wrinkles
• Sun spots and freckles
• Spider veins
• Blotches and redness

Everyone is susceptible to sun damage, so you may see features like these appear on your skin to some degree. However, you’re at an increased risk for sun damage if you have fairer skin, especially if you burn or tan easily when you go outside. 

How can I minimize my sun damage?

If you already have sun damage, you might not like how it looks. If you’re concerned about skin tone and texture problems that come from UV damage, consider one of these treatments you can get at Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists:

Chemical peels

A chemical peel strips the surface layer of cells and their damages from your skin to boost cell regeneration. Various chemical peels can alleviate signs of sun damage, such as discoloration, dryness, and wrinkles.

Laser treatments

Laser therapy also helps stimulate skin cell regeneration. The energy of a laser light heats your skin cells to reduce inflammation and boost cellular repair. It can also minimize your need for any medications. 

To find out more about treatments available for sun-damaged skin, call Adult & Pediatric Dermatology Specialists or schedule a consultation online today.