Sun Damage

Photoaging and sun damage are common terms to beauty editors and skin care professionals but, to the rest of us, they can be rather cryptic. What does sun damage and photoaging mean? Since ultraviolet light is responsible for 90% of skin changes, sun damage and photoaging encompass most of the visible signs of aging.

 


Visible Effects

Photoaging and sun damage result in discolouration, solar lesions such as actinic keratoses (pre-cancerous lesions), fine lines and wrinkles, rough and thick skin texture, dilated blood vessels commonly known as "spider veins" and a loss of firmness and elasticity, often referred to as sagging skin.

Underlying Causes

Repeated, long-term exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun has damaging effects on the skin due to oxidation, ionization, genetic changes to cellular components including DNA and weakened skin immunity. In addition to the visible effects listed here, the aforementioned causes for photoaging can also lead to skin cancer.


Solutions

The sun is our source of vitamin D which is essential to our growth, development and overall health however, too much of a good thing can do more harm. Limiting sun exposure and using daily sun protection with an SPF > 30 are vital to preventing sun damage. Where sun damage exists, there are a host of treatment options to improve and correct the negative effects of the sun. As a centre for aesthetic dermatology and facial cosmetic surgery, Cutis offers a variety of solutions for sun damage including Fraxel® re:store DUAL and Fraxel re:pair, Halo Pro, chemical peels, Clear + Brilliant® laser skin treatments, BBL Photorejuvenation, tightening BBL Skin Tyte and Thermage® CPT, neuromodulators, dermal fillers, Helium Plasma resurfacing, Cutis' minimally invasive Invisible Lift and face lift surgery to address photoaging. A consultation with a Cutis health care professional will establish a customized plan for your unique needs and lifestyle. We welcome you to contact us today.


DISCLAIMER: Individual outcomes, results and number of treatments recommended may vary based on individual patient needs, medical history, and circumstances. Cutis Cosmetic & Laser Centre cannot guarantee exact or permanent results or cures.