Photodamaged Skin

October 24, 2013

Let’s talk about Photodamage. No, this isn’t damage from taking too many selfies, it is essentially damage to your skin from UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays from the sun or tanning booth.

Approximately 80% of photo damage occurs by the time you are 18, whether you were a sun-worshiper or just played outdoor sports. Many parents are learning today that sunscreen on their child is essential, even day care providers require parents to bring or ask for permission to apply sunscreen to children in their care.

Hindsight is 20/20 and while you can’t literally turn back the clock and have a ‘re-do’ you can implement skin care into your everyday routine coupled with periodic professional skin care treatments to heal and restore your skin.

Part of your everyday routine should ALWAYS include a sunscreen with physical and chemical UV blockers, even during the gloomiest winter day. Skin brighteners, like SkinMedica’s Lytera or a product that contains hydroquinone along with a topical Vitamin A cream are products to use at home consistently to reduce brown spots, even skin tone and improve texture. Give your skin a fighting chance at repairing sun damage with professional skin treatments, like chemical peels performed by a professional that can use stronger formulations for more dramatic results.

We invite you for a consultation with clinical esthetician, Joan Mahon, at Ness Plastic Surgery Medical Spa in Minneapolis for a skin assessment, goal review and comprehensive treatment plan. Remember, skin care shouldn’t stop during the summer or winter months. Your skin care plan can include modifications and treatments so that you achieve the results all year long.