Has a summer full of beach days and pool parties left your skin looking dull or damaged? The warm sunshine may feel great, but its ultraviolet light can wreak havoc on your skin, causing wrinkles, dark spots, visible spider veins and a blotchy or ruddy complexion.
Although it is not possible to reverse all of the damage caused by the sun, experts like Charles S. Lee, MD, of Enhance® Medical Center offer several ways to reduce some of the signs of sun damage.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a safe and effective way to reverse certain types of sun damage, like wrinkling or sun spots, and reclaim a youthful glow. Glycolic acid or salicylic acid is applied to the skin, causing the top layer of damaged, wrinkled skin to peel off and reveal smooth, soft skin. There are different types of chemical peels, ranging from light to deep, depending on the specific skin-related concern and its severity. Stronger acids can be used for deeper lines and wrinkles.
A chemical peel is an in-office treatment. Though no downtime is necessary, the skin will start to visibly peel after treatment; the peeling can last up to five days, depending on the strength of the peel.
IPL Photofacials
Another option to target moderate sun damage, including sun spots, sun-induced freckles, facial redness and broken blood vessels, is an intense pulsed light (IPL) photofacial. Pulses of high-intensity light heat up the layers of tissue beneath the skin’s surface, breaking up unwanted melanin and shrinking broken blood vessels. The heat from the light also helps stimulate the production of fresh collagen for smoother, healthier skin.
A photofacial is non-invasive and does not require significant recovery downtime.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is a slightly more invasive procedure than a photofacial. It also uses light to reduce the appearance of numerous flaws in the skin, including wrinkles and other textural problems. Laser energy helps remove the outer skin layer and uncover smoother, softer and more youthful-looking skin.
Although laser skin resurfacing requires some downtime to recover, and can cause swelling, redness and mild discomfort, the treatment can help to reverse moderate to severe sun damage.
To discuss your treatment options with a well-trained, qualified team, please book an appointment at Enhance® Medical Center. You can call 310.271.5954 or send us an email today.
