Photoaging or Photodamage refers to skin damage caused from UV light exposure – sunlight and tanning booths.  Both UV rays (UVA & UVB) are now considered responsible for the damaging effects caused to skin and tissue. 

Most of us know about the connection between sun exposure and skin cancer, but many don't know just how much of an effect the sun can have on prematurely aging our skin.

For example, the cumulative effect of sun exposure can lead to changes in the skin texture such as a rough feel and appearance.  This textural change is also associated with fine lines and wrinkles.

Facial redness is a result of superficial vascularity (blood vessels) that arise close to the surface of the skin as a result of sun damage.  Diffuse facial redness or visible spider veins are often first noticed in the fourth decade of life.

Read more about Celibre Medical's laser treatments for Los Angles sun spot removal http://www.celibre.com/sunspots.aspx. 

Schedule a FREE sun spot removal Los Angeles consultation at Celibre Medical, www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Laser treatments for Photodamage and photoaging by Celibre Medical Los Angeles, Orange County, Long Beach and Irvine, California. 

See more before and after pictures of laser treatments for Los Angeles sun spot removal at http://www.celibre.com/sunspotsba.aspx.  

Sun spots, liver spots, age spots, freckles, and solar lentigines all refer to brown discoloration found on the face, arms, hands, and chest.  This is a result of an increase in melanocytes – cells that hold color or pigment…a direct result of sun damage.

Besides the above obvious signs and symptoms, most patients notice an overall sallowness of their skin.  The skin does not look fresh or vibrant, there is an increase in skin laxity.  Usually, over the counter products do little to provide improvement.

Class IV medical/cosmetic lasers offer many benefits in treating all of these conditions as well as reversing the signs of photodamage and premature aging of the skin.  Although laser treatments are proven effective, preventative measures are invaluable.  When protecting the face with sunscreen, don’t forget the hands and chest.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

Almost all consumers realize the importance of wearing sunscreen to protect from the damaging UV rays that can lead to skin cancer and photoaging (the skin's aging process related to sun exposure).  We all know how bad skin cancer is, but photoaging results in a roughened skin texture, discoloration, skin laxity, and the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

The FDA requires sunscreen manufacturers to develop easy to understand ratings and labeling of their sunscreen products.  For example, SPF will now refer to “sunburn protection factor” vs. the traditional “sun protection factor.”  Also, the FDA has mandated that sunscreen products with a SPF rating of higher than 50 cannot be proven to be any more effective than SPF 50.

Los Angeles age spot removal (and other sun damage treatments) with lasers at www.celibre.com/sunspots.aspx. 

Schedule a free age spot removal Los Angeles consultation at www.celibre.com/contactlist.aspx.

Sun damage (Seborrheic Keratosis) before and after laser treatment pictures. 

Celibre Medical Long Beach, Los Angeles, Irvine, Anaheim and Orange County, California. 

Los Angeles sun spots and sun damage before and after photos by Celibre Medical at www.celibre.com/sunspotsba.aspx.  

Scientists are finding ways to provide better protection against UVA and UVB rays by using the correct ingredients in sunscreen.  Unfortunately, even with the most powerful sunscreen product, lack of consumer education or compliance can make them completely ineffective.

Here are some tips for proper sunscreen use:

1. There is no such thing as “water proof sunscreen.”  The correct term and concept is “water resistant sunscreen.” 
2. Sunscreen should always be used liberally and generously.
3. Re-application of sunscreen is recommended every 2 hours while outside for extended periods of time.  Some manufacturers suggest re-applying the sunscreen again after the 1^st hour because the product has now absorbed into the skin.  By using a 2^nd layer 1 hour later,  we are providing sunscreen protection for the sunscreen!
4. Do not rely on cosmetics or moisturizers that claim to have ingredients that offer sun protection.  These products do not provide the level of protection needed with an actual sunscreen product.
5. Use of daily sunscreen is a good skin habit regardless of how much time is actually spent outdoors.  Consider how much UV exposure we have while driving in our cars.
6. When protecting your face, don’t forget the chest, arms, and hands.

Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C

Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer