Sunlight is one of the major causes of symptoms related to aging skin. According to the National Institutes of Health, sun damage over time causes wrinkles, liver spots and dry skin. Continued sun exposure over the years causes skin to become thin and bruise easily. The ultraviolet rays of the sun can cause damage to the skin that leads to skin cancer, moles and other skin discolorations as well. Following a benign diagnosis, skin can be rejuvenated with a variety of cosmetic procedures.
Potential
While most people consider skin rejuvenation procedures to repair sun damage on the face, other areas of the body have the potential to develop damage from continued ultraviolet exposure. The neck, ears and upper back are common areas that end up with skin damage but often are overlooked. According to Fullerton Dermatology, sun-damaged hands can age a person as much as wrinkles and liver spots on the face.
Considerations
Most cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance and can be very expensive. According to the Mayo Clinic, most cosmetic surgeons require patients to consider their motivation before receiving a procedure. Patients should have realistic expectations of the surgery because skin damage from the sun may not be completely eradicated with the techniques. Plastic surgeons typically consider the attitude and psychological propensities of patients to determine why they want to undergo the surgery.
Types
The most common type of skin rejuvenation is performed with lasers. According to the Knightsbridge Laser Clinic, laser skin rejuvenation is painless and can alleviate the appearance of sun-damaged skin in an average of three sessions. Other types of procedures that can correct the damage done by the sun include chemical peels, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion, chemical peels, Botox and facial fillers.
Warning
Side effects are present with any kind of surgery. According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects from skin rejuvenation procedures include the normal risks associated with surgery such as an adverse reaction to anesthesia, infection and blood clots. In addition to not completely eradicating the problems, surgery also can cause additional problems such as scars and pigment changes. Numbness may continue for an extended period of time and significant bleeding can lead to additional surgeries.
Prevention/Solution
Sun damage can be avoided, negating the need for skin rejuvenation procedures. According to Fullerton Dermatology, children and adults should wear sunscreen every day that provides at least a 30 SPF, or sun factor protection factor. Multiple applications should be used during the day, especially when sweating or swimming. Wearing a hat protects skin from exposure and staying out of the mid-day sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. helps to lower the risk of developing sun damage.
