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As we approach the end of summer, you may be starting to notice the effects of the times you spent a little too much time soaking up the sun’s glorious rays. Even the most diligent sunscreen appliers find a few or more freckles or a more uneven skin tone than they had at the start of spring. If this sounds at all relatable and you’re noticing more brown spots forming on your face, you might be interested in learning more about the ways to reverse these signs of sun damage.

At Livingston Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX, Dr. Christopher K. Livingston has chosen top-of-the-line skin care treatments for preventative and restorative procedures. You can choose from various treatments designed to rejuvenate the skin and correct common skin problems, including sun damage. Here are some options we present to our patients for treating discoloration, wrinkles, and dullness caused by the sun.

What Is Sun Damage?

Excessive exposure to the sun can cause the skin to start to look older. These signs of aging can include wrinkles, coarse skin, freckling, skin discolorations, and leathery texture. The outer layer of the skin contained cells that have pigment melanin. Melanin protects the skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet rays are responsible for burning the skin and reducing its elasticity, leading to premature signs of aging.

Treatments to Reverse Sun Damaged Skin

To minimize the effects of photo-aging, several treatment options are available at Livingston Plastic Surgery including:

• Botox®

Botox® is well-known for its ability to smooth fine lines and wrinkles in the skin, including those that are caused by overexposure to the sun. Botox® contains a complex type of protein called botulinum toxin. When injected into specific muscles, it causes them to become immobile, preventing the forming of wrinkles and furrows.

• Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are another option to minimize irregular pigmentation like large brown spots and freckles. During a chemical peel, the top layer of skin is exfoliated by the chemical solution. By removing the top layer, the skin can regenerate, improving the skin’s appearance over time.

• Dermal Fillers

Similarly to Botox®, dermal fillers are another option if your skin has been effected by the sun in the way of wrinkles, lines, and volume loss. Dermal fillers contain a hyaluronic gel that is carefully and strategically injected into areas of the face where these skin concerns are the worst. The results are noticeable and long-lasting.

• Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing helps to reduce scars, wrinkles, and blemishes on the face. The procedure uses precise targeting to remove unwanted damage to the skin while also encouraging new collagen production.

Ask About Our Treatments to Help Revitalize Your Sun Damaged Skin

Prevention is the key to retaining a youthful appearance. Practicing safe sun exposure habits, such as using sunscreens correctly, staying out of the sun as much as possible, and wearing protective clothing are essential to keeping the skin healthy—especially after undergoing a treatment to correct damage caused by the sun. To learn more, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Livingston by calling (281) 501-1812 or contact us through our website portal.