Unexpected Places That Expose You To Sun Damage

An actinic keratotic is a thin, thickened, flaky growth that develops on the epidermis. It’s the third most common skin disorder caused by sun damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It’s most often caused by too much exposure to UV rays from the sun during many years. That’s why you see age spots, wrinkles and dry patches on our faces and arms as we age. It may be more difficult to prevent in younger people because the UV rays are stronger when we’re younger.

If you think you might have sun damage, see a dermatologist immediately. The sooner you begin treating sun damage, the better your chances of keeping your skin healthy. A dermatologist can examine your skin closely and help you decide on an effective treatment plan.

The usual first step for a dermatologist is to examine your skin closely. They will look for any signs of sun damage such as redness, tenderness, cracks or fine lines, and the like. They’ll also examine it under a magnifying lamp to make sure there’s no other similar problem. If there are, they can prescribe a variety of topical skin protection products.

Different kinds of sun damage require different treatment options. For minor damage caused by overexposure, a good moisturizer with SPF will work. Other options include using self-tanning lotions or creams. In more serious cases, doctors can recommend medications, such as oral antibiotics, or surgical excision of the damaged areas.

Another sign may include uneven pigmentation. If you spot uneven tones, you could have photo damage caused by too much sun exposure or by too much time in the sun without properly protecting yourself. In either case, the best option is to wear a wide-brimmed hat and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors during the day. You should also invest in a good sun block whenever you’re going out, especially if you frequently go to the beach.

Infographic Source: https://www.globaltintusa.com/blog/2021/03/30/unexpected-places-that-expose-you-to-sun-damage-infographics/