Excessive sun exposure can cause skin damage and premature aging in a process called photoaging. According to the University of Virginia Health System, photoaging can lead to wrinkles, discoloration, and rough, dry skin. Severe sun-damaged facial skin can make you look years--or even decades--older than you really are. Fortunately, there are several treatment options for reducing the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
OTC Topical Medications
Over-the-counter products, such as those containing alpha hydroxy acids or vitamin C, may help smooth rough skin caused by overexposure to the sun. The products work by gradually burning away the topmost layer of the skin, which allows new, healthy skin to grow in its place.
Unfortunately, these products generally require regular use over a period of months to improve the skin's appearance and texture.
Prescription Medications
Prescription topical medications typically work more quickly than over-the-counter products. Tretinoin cream can smooth skin after only a few weeks of use, and consistent use over a period of years may dramatically reduce wrinkles and discoloration, according to the University of Virginia. Tazarotene, a retinoid, may reverse sun damage in some cases.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels help treat severe sun damage by removing the top layer of skin from the face. Peels vary in strength, with some able to penetrate into the dermis layer to improve the appearance of deeper wrinkles. While chemical peels are effective at minimizing the appearance of age spots, fine lines and skin discoloration, they may cause significant side effects, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society.
Pain, redness, superficial scarring and pigmentary changes are possible side effects of chemical peels.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is increasingly used in place of dermabrasion to treat severely sun-damaged facial skin. Non-Ablative Laser Surgery and Pulse Dye laser procedures help treat sun damage by heating the skin to encourage the production of new collagen, according to the Skin Care Guide. This helps smooth the skin.
Laser treatments can also reduce redness caused by broken blood vessels and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Skin Fillers
Skin fillers, such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, can minimize wrinkles and improve the appearance of severely sun-damaged skin. Injection of these fillers directly into wrinkles helps decrease their depth, making them more even with surrounding skin.
Skin fillers work for as long as six months. Side effects, such as swelling and redness, are usually temporary and mild.
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