Sun-Damaged Skin: How Dermatologists Restore a Healthier, Younger-Looking Appearance

Long-term sun exposure can cause lasting changes in the skin—wrinkles, spots, discoloration, and even precancerous lesions. The good news? Dermatologists offer safe, evidence-based treatments that can dramatically reduce visible sun damage and improve skin health.

At Advanced Dermatology Care, our providers specialize in personalized treatment plans for sun-damaged skin as part of our:
➡ Cosmetic Dermatology Services.

What Is Sun-Damaged Skin?

Every time the skin is exposed to UV radiation—whether from the sun or tanning beds—it causes microscopic DNA damage. Over time, this damage accumulates and appears as:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Age spots (sun spots)
  • Uneven or ruddy skin tone
  • Rough or dry texture
  • Loose or sagging skin

Sun damage, also known as photoaging, can happen gradually or appear rapidly in those who use tanning beds.

In more advanced cases, sun exposure can cause actinic keratoses (AKs)—precancerous, dry, scaly patches. Left untreated, some AKs can progress into squamous cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer.

If you notice rough or scaly spots, schedule a skin exam through our:
➡ General Dermatology Department.

How Dermatologists Treat Sun-Damaged Skin

Reducing signs of sun damage typically requires a combination of treatments. Dermatologists customize plans based on:

  • Severity of wrinkles
  • Pigmentation problems
  • Skin texture
  • Skin laxity
  • Skin type and health

Below are the treatments commonly used to improve skin affected by UV damage.

Treatments for Wrinkles

Sun exposure breaks down collagen faster than the body can rebuild it, leading to fine lines and deeper wrinkles.

Dermatologist-Recommended Options

  • Prescription retinoids
  • Medical-grade moisturizers
  • Injectable neurotoxins (Botox®)
  • Dermal fillers
  • Chemical Peels
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Laser resurfacing

These treatments help smooth the skin, increase collagen production, and soften wrinkles.

Treatments for Age Spots (Sun Spots)

Brown spots form when UV exposure causes overproduction of pigment.

Dermatologist-Recommended Options

  • Prescription retinoids
  • Intense pulsed light (IPL)
  • Laser resurfacing
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Chemical peels
  • Cryotherapy (freezing)

Many of these options are available through our:
➡ Cosmetic Dermatology Services.

Treatments for Loose or Sagging Skin

UV exposure weakens collagen and elastin, leading to skin laxity.

Treatment Options

  • Prescription retinoids
  • Dermal fillers
  • Ultrasound-based skin tightening
  • Non-invasive radiofrequency (RF)
     RF Microneedling for Skin Tightening.
  • Laser tightening
  • Topicals containing growth factors or peptides

Treatments for Blotchy or Red Complexion

A ruddy, uneven tone is a classic symptom of photoaging.

Dermatologist-Recommended Options

  • Topical retinoids
  • Microdermabrasion
  • IPL therapy
  • Laser treatments

Improving skin tone often requires treating underlying redness and pigmentation at the same time.

Why Sun Protection Is Essential

Even the most advanced treatments will not provide long-term results unless daily sun protection becomes part of your routine.

Without sun protection, you risk:

  • Developing new signs of aging
  • Worsening existing damage
  • Suffering complications from cosmetic treatments

Protect your skin by:

  • Using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
  • Reapplying every 2 hours outdoors
  • Avoiding tanning beds
  • Wearing hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing

Sun protection also helps prevent actinic keratoses and skin cancer.

Benefits of Seeing a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Choosing a trained medical professional is essential for safe, effective treatment of sun-damaged skin.

A board-certified dermatologist:

1. Has extensive medical training

Dermatologists complete four years of medical school plus 3–5 years of specialized dermatology training. They can accurately diagnose your skin type and determine which treatments are safest and most effective.

2. Performs procedures in a medical setting

This ensures sterile conditions and reduces risks.

3. Screens for skin cancer before treatment

Only dermatologists have the expertise to distinguish between benign age spots and early skin cancers. This is critical for safe and effective care.

Restore Healthier, More Radiant Skin

If you’re concerned about wrinkles, discoloration, or other signs of sun damage, our team can help you build a customized treatment plan.

Learn more or schedule a consultation:
➡ Cosmetic Dermatology Services
➡ New Patients
➡ General Dermatology