One of the biggest factors that can lead to an aged appearance is sun damage. It can be difficult to avoid harmful UV rays, especially during the warm summer months, but it is critical to take care. Purchasing skincare products can be difficult if you do not know what to look for. Some products claim to protect your skin entirely, while some say they can reverse sun damage. But can our skin actually recover from such damage? Unfortunately, it all depends on who you ask.
What Your Sun Damage Can Look Like
Trends continue to push tanned skin as “hotter” than pale skin, but this continued exposure to UV rays can be harmful. This damage can manifest as a variety of things. Our skin responds to repeated sun exposure by producing a tanning pigment. The start of sun damage can begin with simple sun freckles. Additional damage can start to produce harmful enzymes in your skin that will break down the elastic fibers and collagen, producing wrinkles in your skin tissue. Individuals with sun damage may also start to notice the veins in their face become more noticeable as our blood vessels grow with continued UV exposure. If you begin to notice dry skin and fine lines start to appear after continued sun exposure, it might be time to seek help.
Can Sun Damage Actually Be Reversed?
As mentioned, the belief that sun damage can be reversed all depends on where you go for help. Dermatologists are torn between those who think available treatments can reverse sun damage and those who think once the damage is done you have it for life. The more positive outlook is that dermatology treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels are able to remove the top layer of your skin, and with it the visible sun damage you have received. Another commonly used option is laser treatment, which is able to reduce the appearance of sunspots along the neck, chest, and hands.
Dermatologists who do not believe sun damage can be reversed agree that our body does not produce enough photolyases, an enzyme that is able to repair damaged DNA. They believe once your body has received sun damage it can last for life. Either way, it is critical to take care of your skin by applying sunscreen and other skincare products when going out under the sun. Sunscreen with DNA repairing photolyases is on the market and can be used as well.
Receive Skin Care Treatment Today
If you are looking to reduce the appearance of sun damage and other conditions, make sure to call us today. Our free consultation will go over treatments that may be available for you. Let the professionals at the St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center assist you. Learn more about dermatology!
