Are Past Summers Showing Up on Your Skin? Here’s How We Can Help
If you’re noticing that past summers are showing up on your skin, don’t worry. There are dermatological solutions out there to solve a host of issues resulting from sun damaged skin. From laser treatments to chemical peels, here’s how our solutions can help your skin look brighter, younger, and more even in tone.
How Summer Weather Impacts Skin
Sun Damaged Skin
The sun’s UVA and UVB rays can wreak all kinds of havoc on the skin, from sunburns to premature aging to skin cancers. First and foremost, if you’ve noticed any new moles or any changes in size, shape, color, or border of existing moles, you should get a skin cancer screening with a dermatologist immediately. While these changes don’t necessarily indicate the presence of skin cancer, they could be early warning signs, so it’s important to get checked as soon as possible.
But sun damaged skin isn’t limited to skin cancer. In fact, some of the most troubling skin conditions that dermatology patients want to treat are things like dark spots, wrinkles, and skin discoloration from sun exposure. Fortunately, there are treatment options that can help reduce the appearance of these skin issues or remove them altogether.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel treatment can be performed on its own or as part of a facial treatment. This chemical exfoliant uses a special solution to slough off the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing fresh skin beneath. While results are typically visible within a few days post-treatment, over time and with multiple treatments, wrinkles and dark spots become much less noticeable and may disappear altogether.
From the Jessners Peel to the VI Peel to the TCA Peel, there are plenty of chemical peel options for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation issues, and scarring. Talk to your dermatologist about which chemical peel is right for your skin type and specific concerns.
Laser Treatment
There are several types of lasers that can treat pigmented spots or other types of skin discoloration from sun exposure. The VBeam Perfecta Laser uses the Pulse Dye Laser (PDL) technology to safely target melanin pigmented skin areas. The laser provides a youthful, healthy, and even-toned complexion, with results visible immediately following treatment. Keep in mind, however, that improvement and healing time varies on your specific skin issues.
The elōs Plus is another laser treatment that employs a combination of light or laser energy along with radiofrequency (RF) energy in order to deliver maximum results. This laser is particularly helpful for reducing the appearance of dark spots and freckles, and is extremely customizable.
Preventative Measures
Remember that the best route is always prevention. Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 50 when out in the sun and avoid being directly in the sunlight during peak hours, from 12-4 pm. Spend time in the shade when possible and cover exposed skin by wearing sun shirts and wide-brimmed hats. And always avoid artificial light sources like tanning beds and booths. This is especially important for those with fair skin and blue or green eyes.
Contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates
If you’re in Baton Rouge or the surrounding areas and want to get a laser or peel treatment or receive a skin cancer screening, contact Louisiana Dermatology Associates today for an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists.