Sun Damage / Photoaging

At Northern Sydney Dermatology & Laser (NSDL), we see many patients concerned about the effects of sun damage on their skin. In Australia, with its high levels of sun exposure, protecting your skin is more important than ever.

Sun damage, or photodamage, occurs when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation over time. This process leads to photoaging, where the signs of aging - like wrinkles, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity - are accelerated by sun exposure. In fact, it is estimated that up to 80% of visible skin aging is caused by sun exposure rather than the natural aging process.

How does sun exposure age your skin?

UV radiation, primarily UVA and UVB rays, causes changes at the molecular level in your skin. This includes:

• Collagen Breakdown: UV exposure damages the collagen in your skin, leading to the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Pigmentation Changes: You may notice sun spots (solar lentigines) or melasma, where patches of skin become darker due to increased melanin production.

• Loss of Elasticity: Over time, sun exposure causes the skin to lose its elasticity, leading to sagging and thinning.

• Vascular Changes: Chronic exposure can also lead to telangiectasias (visible broken blood vessels), particularly on the face.

Not only does UV exposure contribute to cosmetic concerns, but it also increases the risk of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Certain factors can increase your risk of sun damage:

• Fair Skin: People with lighter skin (Fitzpatrick skin types I-III) are more prone to sun damage and skin cancers.

• Outdoor Lifestyle: Those who spend a lot of time outdoors without adequate sun protection are at higher risk, particularly in areas with strong UV radiation like Australia.

• Age and Gender: The risk of photoaging increases with age, and men are often at higher risk due to more frequent outdoor exposure.

While we can’t stop the natural aging process, there are steps you can take to prevent and reduce photoaging:

1. Daily Sun Protection: Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days. Make this a daily habit.

2. Protective Clothing: Use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing to cover exposed skin.

3. Seek Shade: Avoid being in direct sunlight, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM, when UV levels are at their highest.

4. Regular Skin Checks: Early detection of skin damage and potential cancers is crucial. Schedule regular skin checks with your dermatologist, especially if you have a history of sunburn or prolonged sun exposure.

At NSDL, we offer various treatments to help reverse the signs of photoaging. These include:

• Laser and energy based device treatments to improve skin texture and reduce pigmentation

• Chemical peels to remove damaged outer layers of skin

• Topical treatments with antioxidants and retinoids to stimulate collagen production and repair damaged skin.

Before & After