Sun Damage

What Is Sun Damage?

Sun damage—also called photoaging—refers to the cumulative effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin over time. It can show up as fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, uneven skin tone, rough texture, broken blood vessels, and loss of firmness. In more serious cases, sun damage increases the risk of precancerous lesions and skin cancer.

Sun damage develops gradually and often becomes noticeable years after the exposure occurred—but the good news is that much of it can be prevented, treated, and improved.

Why Sun Damage Happens

Sun damage occurs when UV rays penetrate the skin and disrupt normal skin structure and function.

1. UV Radiation Breakdown of Collagen

UV exposure damages collagen and elastin, the fibers that keep skin firm and elastic. Over time, this leads to wrinkles, sagging, and thinning skin.

2. Pigment Overproduction

UV light stimulates pigment-producing cells, causing dark spots, freckles, and uneven tone.

3. DNA Damage

Repeated sun exposure damages skin cell DNA. While the body repairs some damage, cumulative exposure can lead to precancerous changes and skin cancer.

4. Chronic Inflammation

Sun exposure creates low-grade inflammation that accelerates aging and weakens the skin barrier.

5. Environmental & Lifestyle Factors

Outdoor exposure, tanning beds, inconsistent sunscreen use, and living in sunny climates all increase cumulative damage.

How Sun Damage Is Treated

Treatment focuses on repairing existing damage and preventing future injury.

Medical-Grade Skincare

Retinoids to stimulate collagen and improve texture
Antioxidants (such as vitamin C) to neutralize free radicals
Pigment-correcting agents to fade sun spots
Barrier-repair moisturizers to strengthen skin

In-Office Treatments

Chemical peels to refresh skin and improve tone
Laser and light-based treatments to target pigment, redness, and texture
Microneedling and RF microneedling to stimulate collagen remodeling
Cryotherapy or topical treatments for precancerous lesions when needed

Skin Cancer Screening & Prevention

Routine full-body skin exams
Early treatment of actinic keratoses (precancerous spots)
Education on self-skin checks

Lifestyle & Functional Medicine Support

Sun protection is a daily habit—not just a beach-day concern.

Daily Sun Protection

Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher) every day
Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
Protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses

Nutrition for Skin Repair

Diets rich in antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress
Adequate protein supports collagen repair
Hydration supports skin barrier health

Inflammation & Skin Health

Chronic inflammation accelerates sun damage
Stress management and sleep support skin repair

What to Expect

Improvement occurs gradually over weeks to months
Preventative care is just as important as corrective treatment
Consistency leads to the best long-term results

Our Approach

We take a prevent, repair, and protect strategy—combining advanced dermatologic treatments, medical-grade skincare, and lifestyle education. Our goal is healthier, stronger skin that looks better now and stays protected for the future.

Healthy skin starts with smart sun care—every day.