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Sun Damage

Spending time in the sun can lift our spirits, boost vitamin D levels, and encourage an active lifestyle, but prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays takes a serious toll on the skin.

Sun damage is the visible and cellular changes to the skin cause by prolonged exposure to the UV radiation from the sun. Sun damage prematurely ages the skin and increases your risk for skin cancer.

This cumulative damage interferes with the skin’s normal repair mechanisms, allowing abnormal cells to form. Over the years, even small amounts of daily sun exposure can lead to chronic changes in the skin’s appearance and increase the risk of precancerous and cancerous growths.

There are two main types of UV rays to be aware of:

  • UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are primarily responsible for photoaging—leading to fine lines, sagging, and pigmentation changes.
  • UVB rays affect the outer layer of the skin and are the main cause of sunburn and direct DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer.

Both types contribute to long-term skin damage and increase the likelihood of developing both cosmetic concerns and serious medical conditions.

  • Fine lines and deep wrinkles
  • Uneven skin tone or blotchy pigmentation
  • Enlarged pores and rough skin texture
  • Loss of skin elasticity and sagging
  • Thin, fragile skin that bruises easily
  • Visible red or purple blood vessels, especially on the cheeks and nose
  • Dark spots or solar lentigines (“sun spots”)
  • Dry, scaly patches that don’t go away (Actinic Keratoses (AKs)- precancerous lesions)

These skin changes are most common in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, upper chest, shoulders, and hands.

UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells. If the body is unable to repair this damage effectively, abnormal cells can begin to grow out of control, forming cancerous tumors. The three most common types of skin cancer are:

  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Often appears as a pearly bump, open sore, or reddish patch. It typically grows slowly and is rarely life-threatening but can cause significant local damage if untreated.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): May present as a firm bump, scaly patch, or wart-like growth. SCC can be more aggressive and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body.
  • Melanoma: The most dangerous type of skin cancer often appears as a new or changing, irregular mole. The majority of melanomas are caused by UV radiation from the sun. Sunburns that occur during childhood are an important risk factor for melanoma. Melanoma can spread quickly and become life-threatening if not detected early. Warning signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven coloring, diameter over 6mm, and evolving shape or size (the ABCDEs of melanoma).

Sun damage and its consequences can affect anyone, but some individuals are more vulnerable, especially those who:

  • Have fair skin, light eyes, and red or blond hair
  • Burn easily or tan poorly
  • Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
  • Spend significant time outdoors or live in sunny climates
  • Have used tanning beds
  • Have many moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles
  • Are over the age of 50
  • Take medications that increase sun sensitivity

Dr. Brian Hibler performs thorough skin examinations to assess both visible and underlying sun damage. During a skin check, any concerning spots, moles, or patches are evaluated closely. If a lesion appears abnormal, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine if treatment is necessary.

Routine skin exams are especially important for individuals with a history of sunburns, tanning bed use, or prior skin cancer. Early detection dramatically improves the likelihood of successful treatment.

Sun protection is the foundation of skin cancer prevention and maintaining youthful skin. Dr. Hibler recommends the following daily habits:

  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective clothing, and sunglasses
  • Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest
  • Avoid tanning beds entirely
  • Walk on the shaded side of the street and avoid intentional sun (e.g. tanning)

There are many effective topical and procedural options for treating sun damage. Topical treatment options include antioxidants, growth factors, and retinoids. A customized skincare routine with an emphasis on prevention and treatment of sun damage can be discussed at your office visit.

Procedural options for correcting signs of sun damage include chemical peels and lasers. Chemical peels work to exfoliate the outer layers of skin, allowing a fresh, brighter outer layer of skin cells to show. The depth of the peel can be superficial, medium, or deep, depending on the degree of sun damage and individual goals.

Lasers offer the most comprehensive photorejuvenation. Different laser devices can be combined to effectively target all signs of sun damage. Vascular lasers targeting hemoglobin can be used to remove any broken blood vessels and red spots. Pigment-specific lasers targeting melanin can be used to remove sun-spots and freckles. Lastly, resurfacing lasers (Fraxel, CO2) can be used to dramatically improve signs of sun damage by erasing lines and wrinkles, building collagen and elastin, improving complexion and tone, and removing precancerous growths (actinic keratoses). [LINK to vascular lasers, Pigment lasers, and resurfacing articles]

Sun damage may happen gradually, but the consequences can be lasting. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and expert care, many signs of photoaging can be reversed, and skin cancer can be detected and treated effectively. Dr. Brian Hibler, a board-certified and fellowship-trained medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Manhattan, combines medical precision with advanced cosmetic treatments to protect, repair, and rejuvenate sun-damaged skin. Whether you are looking to address visible sun damage or take proactive steps to prevent future issues, Dr. Hibler offers comprehensive, personalized care to help you achieve healthy and radiant skin.

At a Glance

Dr. Brian Hibler

  • Board-certified dermatologist
  • Fellowship-trained dermatologist
  • Ivy League educated at Cornell and Harvard Medical School
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