Revive Sun-Damaged Skin with These Doctor-Recommended Tips

Sun damage can show up on your skin in a number of ways, ranging from premature lines and wrinkles to dark spots, redness and a dull, uneven skin texture. Fortunately, there are several nonsurgical skin treatments that can address these specific sun-related skin concerns. See Dr. West’s recommendations for the best treatments for sun-damaged skin, depending on your individual concerns. 

Treat Dark Spots and Redness with Lasers

Laser treatments can address a variety of skin issues related to sun damage, including dark spots, redness and uneven skin tone and texture. IPL (intense pulsed light) therapies like Lumecca® are best-known for reducing vascular lesions like visible veins and redness, as well as other pigmentation concerns. IPL treatments are gentle on the skin and can be suitable for nearly all skin types and tones. 

Other laser treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing can target deeper layers of skin and therefore address a wider range of skin concerns, including dark spots, redness, scarring, enlarged pores, wrinkles and more. If you are considering laser treatments, Dr. West can help you decide which type could be best for you during your consultation. 

Boost Collagen with Microneedling

Many common signs of sun damage and aging, including fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity, are related to the breakdown of collagen within the skin. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, works by creating tiny “micro channels” within your skin using very fine needles. This process stimulates your skin’s natural cell renewal and collagen production processes in order to heal those micro injuries. The result is a natural boost of collagen and fewer visible lines, wrinkles and loose skin. 

Some microneedling devices like Morpheus8 combine this collagen induction technology with radiofrequency energy to enhance skin-tightening results.

Tighten Loose Skin and Wrinkles with Radiofrequency Devices

Like radiofrequency microneedling devices like Morpheus8, radiofrequency skin tightening devices like FaceTite™ can effectively tighten skin in the jaw and neck areas. The safe and gentle radiofrequency energy emitted by the FaceTite device is converted to thermal energy (heat), which works to stimulate collagen production within the targeted tissue. This process can gradually tighten and sculpt your skin without surgery or extensive downtime. 

Achieve Full-Face Rejuvenation with Chemical Peels

Because chemical peels can address a number of signs of sun damage, they can be excellent options if you are looking for a full-face glow-up. Chemical peels are highly customizable based on your skin type and specific needs. They work by causing the outermost layer of your skin to desquamate, or gently peel away, gradually revealing the fresh new layer of skin underneath. 

Dr. West will assess your skin and recommend a customized peel that will best suit your skin’s unique needs. 

Prevent and Protect

While treatments can help to repair sun damage, prevention is key to maintaining healthy skin. Sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting your skin from further sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher daily, even on cloudy days and during winter.

Additionally, you can incorporate antioxidant ingredients into your daily skincare regimen for added UV protection. Dr. West can recommend the best medical-grade skincare products based on your skin type. 

Ready to take the next step toward getting a refreshed and brighter complexion? Call our Ann Arbor office at 734-971-0262 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.