All those relaxing days spent lounging in the sun as teenagers can really wreak havoc on your skin later in life. Sun damage shows up in the form of wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. In addition to avoiding future sun damage by using sun block and being mindful of how much time you spend in the sun, there are things you can do to help turn back the clock and erase sun damage. Here are four great options:
Vitamin C Serums
One of the more affordable options that works best for mild sun damage is vitamin C serum, which can easily be purchased over the counter or online. Vitamin C is thought to help undo sun damage by helping to increase collagen production while also offering gentle exfoliation.You may not see dramatic results with this option, but it is a gentle beginning step that will brighten your complexion and undo some signs of sun damage over time.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing at clinics like Bijou Medispa utilizes modern laser technology in order to provide dramatic skin-improving results. Targeted lasers peel away surface layers of skin, revealing healthy new skin. Laser skin resurfacing tends to work much more quickly than other sun damage options.
It's important to follow your dermatologist or esthetician's after care instructions as laser skin resurfacing can leave your skin temporarily tender and delicate.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel involves your dermatologist applying layers of chemical solution that has been specifically designed to safely remove the surface layer of your skin, revealing the undamaged skin below. Depending on the amount of sun damage, most skin care experts recommend a series of chemical peels in order to truly reduce sun damage, as a single chemical peel is not usually powerful enough and the peels are designed to work cumulatively over the course of several treatments.
Retinol Creams
Retinol creams can be purchased in lower strengths over the counter, or in higher concentrations with a prescription. Retinol creams can be a very effective way to reduce sun damage, as they help surface skin cells turn over more rapidly in order to be replaced by healthier, newer, less damaged skin cells. Retinol has been shown in scientific studies to reduce sun spots, wrinkles, and even acne. Retinol can be very effective but it does take time and dedication to see true results.
Remember to combine these sun damage solutions with sun protection and your skin will be good to go!
