subject: Sun Damage & Age Spot Removal [print this page] Sun Damage & Age Spot Removal Sun Damage & Age Spot Removal
Sun damage, also known as age spots, is a natural consequence of too much time spent unprotected in the sun. Of course, the ideal way to avoid sun damage is to apply plenty of sunscreen prior to outdoor activities, but for many people, the damage has already been done. These unsightly brown spots can appear on any portion of your skin commonly exposed to the sun, making them highly visible and extremely embarrassing.
Causes of Sun Damage
UV rays from the sun can cause a number of skin issues such as wrinkles, freckles, and sun damage. The latter fall into a category called hyperpigmentation, a result of excessive amounts of melanin being released from the body. This melanin can cause spotting which, while not cancerous, can indicate an increased risk for skin cancer. What's more, these spots can lead to feeling unattractive and a desire to cover up areas that you may otherwise be proud of.
Treatments for Sun Damage
Fortunately, sun damage can be easily treated through a variety of methods. Depending on the location of any sun damage, your doctor may choose:
Skin creams or bleach
Microdermabrasion
Skin peels
Intense pulsed light treatments
Laser skin treatments
As an added benefit, many of these treatment options also remove wrinkles and other signs of aging, leaving you with a more youthful and attractive overall appearance.
Treatment for sun damage is based on location and severity, and each patient will have unique needs that should be addressed by your doctor. The recovery time from your procedure will depend greatly on which one is required, but all of these treatments offer a relatively short and painless period before regular activities can be resumed.
Benefits of Treating Sun Damage
The primary benefit of treating sun damaged skin is a renewed sense of self-confidence and restored beauty. Preliminary studies suggest that removing sun damage may also decrease your risk for certain types of cancer, as well. The evidence for this claim is still debated, but it is certain that removal of sun spots can have a tremendously positive effect on your emotional well-being.
