Photodamage Treatment In Gainesville, FL

Photodamage is characterized by the changes in the skin that occur following prolonged exposure to solar irradiation. The effects of exposing unprotected skin to natural sunlight include the potential development of melanoma and other types of skin cancer, as well as photoaging. Photoaging, defined as an alteration in the skin caused by sun exposure that resembles the effects of the natural aging process, is one of the most common results seen with photodamage. If you're seeking effective solutions to help reverse effects associated with epidermal photodamage, dermal photodamage, or color photodamage, then contact Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery. One of our dermatologists in Gainesville can help you achieve the healthy, beautiful skin you deserve; schedule a dermatologist appointment today.

What Is Photodamage?

Skin photodamage, also commonly referred to as solar damage and sun damage, refers to damage caused when ultraviolet (UV) light hits skin unprotected by sun-safe (UPF) clothing or sunscreen. This exposure can cause changes to the DNA at a cellular level, as photodamage affects the deepest layers of skin up through most surface levels of skin (epidermis). UV radiation is divided into three primary groups, UVA, UVB, and UVC (which is not generally a factor to humans).

  • Ultraviolet A (UVA) light is a form of solar radiation that damages skin at all levels. Within the skin's layers, collagen, elastin, and other natural proteins that provide youthful, taught, and elasticity to skin become damaged when exposed to UVA light. Additionally, UVA light affects epidermal cells and damages capillaries by thinning the walls of surface blood vessels, leading to bruising, bleeding, and a more prevalent appearance of blood vessels.
  • Ultraviolet B (UVB) light is another type of solar radiation which irradiates the outer layer of the skin. This type of solar radiation damages DNA more potently than UVA light and it can cause photoaging, in addition to the development of actinic keratoses, among other precancerous skin conditions.

Signs Of Photoaging

Normal, chronological aging is dictated by factors such as age and genetics, but photoaging occurs when UV light, either from the sun or tanning beds, causes permanent damage to the structure of the skin. In most adults, the difference between chronologically aged skin and photodamaged skin is significant. Chronically sun-exposed or photodamaged skin is characterized by a number of visible clinical features, including the following.

  • Moderate-To-Severe Wrinkling
  • Precancerous Skin Conditions
  • Changes In Skin Pigmentation
  • Age Spots, Liver Spots & Freckles
  • Loss Of Firm Skin Tone
  • Rough, Uneven Skin Texture
  • Broken Capillaries
  • Blotchiness & Redness

Is Photodamage Reversible?

Even with the help of a Gainesville dermatologist, reverse photoaging is not possible. Effective treatments, however, can help minimize the appearance and further development of common signs of epidermal photodamage. What's more, our dermatologists and skin care professionals can provide you with all the information you need regarding skin treatments, skin care, and precautionary tips to help you avoid developing additional photodamage and signs of premature aging.

Photoaging Treatment

With the use of the latest developments in photodamaged skin treatment technology, patients are able to achieve visible, lasting results that diminish the appearance of signs associated with skin photodamage and photoaging. The following dermatology treatments can help lessen the appearance of wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, reduced skin elasticity, reduced collagen, uneven texture, redness and blotchiness, wrinkles, and spider veins. Contact our dermatology office today to schedule an appointment and to learn more about our photoaging treatments.

  • Professional Dermal Exfoliation
  • Photodynamic Therapy
  • Skin Treatments

Photodamage Prevention Tips

Our Gainesville dermatologists know that it's always optimal to integrate effective sun-protection practices into your daily routine. The less your skin is unprotected while exposed to natural sunlight, the lower your risk of developing skin cancer and photodamage. Even for those who have developed photodamage, now is the perfect time to start protecting your skin. Photodamage of a minor degree is inevitable, but using the following tips can help you avoid developing modern-to-severe signs of photodamage and photoaging.

  • Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 35+
  • Sun-protective clothing (UPF-rated clothing)
  • Discontinue use of tanning beds and outdoor tanning
  • Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours
  • Use of sun-protective eyewear and wide-brimmed hats