A little sunshine feels wonderful. It lifts your mood and helps your body make vitamin D. But spending too much time in the sun without protection can take a real toll on your skin over time.
Understanding how sun exposure affects your skin can help you make better choices for your health and appearance. And if sun damage has already left its mark, there are ways to restore your skin’s youthful look.
How the Sun Ages Your Skin
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun penetrate deep into your skin. Over time, this exposure breaks down two important proteins: collagen and elastin. Collagen gives your skin structure and firmness. Elastin allows your skin to bounce back after stretching.
When these proteins break down, your skin loses its ability to stay firm and smooth. This is why sun-damaged skin often shows wrinkles, fine lines, and a leathery texture earlier than protected skin would.
The effects of sun damage add up over the years. In fact, many of the visible signs we associate with aging actually come from sun exposure rather than the natural aging process.
Sunspots and Skin Health
You may have noticed flat, brown spots appearing on your face, hands, or chest. These sunspots (also called age spots or liver spots) develop from years of UV exposure. While most sunspots are harmless, some can develop into more serious skin conditions.
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that often appears on areas that get a lot of sun. It typically shows up as a flat spot that changes in size, shape, or color over time. Early detection makes treatment much more successful, so regular skin checks are important.
Protecting Your Skin
Prevention is always the best approach. Here are simple ways to protect your skin from further damage:
- Limit direct sun exposure during peak hours. The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan outdoor activities for earlier or later in the day when possible.
- Wear protective clothing. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses shield your face and delicate eye area from UV rays.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Apply it even on cloudy days. UV rays can still reach your skin through cloud cover.
- Check your skin regularly. Watch for any new spots or changes to existing ones. Talk to your doctor if something looks different.
Restoring Sun-Damaged Skin
If sun damage has already affected your skin’s appearance, you’re not alone. Many of our patients come to us with concerns about wrinkles, texture changes, and sun spots that make them look older than they feel.
Dr. Ghaderi offers several treatments that can address sun damage and help restore a more youthful appearance. Options like chemical peels and laser treatments can improve skin texture and reduce discoloration. For more significant signs of aging, procedures like a facelift or eyelid lift can refresh your look in a natural way.
During your consultation, Dr. Ghaderi will examine your skin and discuss which treatments might work best for your needs and goals. Every person’s skin is different, so he creates a personalized plan just for you.
Take the Next Step
Your skin tells a story, but it doesn’t have to reveal every chapter of sun exposure from your past. With the right care and treatment, you can protect your skin going forward and address existing damage.
Patients throughout the Chicago suburbs, including Oak Brook, Aurora, and Naperville, choose St. Charles Plastic Surgery for compassionate, expert care. Contact us to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you look and feel your best.
