Sun Damage Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in Dallas, TX
In a sunny city like Dallas, ultraviolet (UV) radiation can take a serious toll on your skin. Whether it’s a few minutes of unprotected time outdoors each day or years of sun exposure, the effects can accumulate and lead to visible and lasting skin damage, including fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, and even precancerous lesions.
At the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center, patients receive care from Dr. Ross Radusky, a board-certified dermatologist, and Shevonne Chude, a diplomate of the Society for Dermatology Physician Assistants. They offer comprehensive cosmetic and clinical treatment options for the effects of sun damage.
What is sun damage?
Sun damage is any damage or changes to the skin due to sun exposure. It can affect any body part frequently exposed to the sun, but the most common areas are the face, neck, hairline, lips, and ears.
What causes sun damage?
Sun damage is caused by exposure to UV radiation emitted by the sun. It can occur after many hours in the sun or small increments of unprotected time throughout your life. Tanning beds can also emit UV radiation and lead to sun damage.
What are the symptoms of sun damage?
Signs and symptoms of sun damage may include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blisters
- Peeling of the skin
- Tenderness
- Wrinkles
- Uneven pigmentation or changes in skin tone
- Melasma
- Age spots
- Actinic keratosis (small red, brown, or skin-colored scaly patches on the skin)
- Actinic cheilitis (scaly, dry, or cracked patches on the lips)
- Other unusual growths
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How is skin damage diagnosed?
If you believe you are suffering from sun damage, a thorough skin exam by an experienced dermatologist can help confirm a diagnosis.
Your provider will review your medical history and family history. They may also want to know more about how much time you spend in the sun and if you follow any skin care regimens to protect your skin.
If you display actinic keratosis of the skin or any unusual growths, your provider might recommend a biopsy to determine if the area is cancerous.
Can skin damage lead to complications if left untreated?
Left untreated, repeated unprotected sun exposure and sun damage can increase your risk of skin cancer. Untreated skin cancer, in turn, may spread to other areas of the body, making it more difficult to control.
How is sun damage treated?
If areas of your face or body have been affected by sun damage, there is a wide array of facial rejuvenation treatments available, including:
- Moisturizers
- Topical creams
- Chemical peels
- Cryosurgery
- Cryotherapy
- Laser resurfacing
- Dermabrasion
- Fillers
- BOTOX® Cosmetic
- Photodynamic therapy
Treatment will vary depending on the type of sun damage sustained. Your provider will determine the best solutions and recommendations for your needs.
Why Choose Dermatology Treatment and Research Center?
Patients choose the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center for sun damage care because of its blend of advanced technology, ongoing clinical research, and compassionate expertise. Led by Dr. Ross Radusky – a board-certified dermatologist trained at NYU and Memorial Sloan Kettering – the practice offers innovative solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Radusky has extensive experience treating aging skin, discoloration, and other sun-related concerns using procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and injectables. Alongside Shevonne Chude, a highly trained and patient-focused dermatology PA, the team delivers personalized, research-driven care in a supportive setting.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take for Sun Damage To Appear on the Skin?Sun damage shows up in different ways and on different timelines. A sunburn may appear within hours, but long-term damage – like fine lines, dark spots, and changes in skin texture – often takes years to develop. Cumulative UV exposure over time contributes to premature aging and increased skin cancer risk. Even short, daily exposure without protection can build up gradually. For some people, signs of sun damage may become visible in their late 20s or 30s, especially on areas that frequently see the sun, like the face, neck, arms, and hands. How Can I Tell if My Brown Spots Are From Sun Damage or Aging?Brown spots – also called sun spots or solar lentigines – usually appear on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun most often, like the face, shoulders, and hands. These spots tend to be flat, tan to dark brown, and varied in size. While aging contributes to these spots' development, they are primarily triggered by UV rays. If your brown spots appear more on sun-exposed areas and become noticeable after spending time outdoors, they are likely related to sun damage. A dermatologist can assess your skin and help determine the cause of pigmentation changes. Are Freckles a Sign of Sun Damage or Are They Genetic?Freckles can be both genetic and influenced by sun exposure. People with lighter skin tones and certain genetic traits are more likely to develop freckles. This is especially true if they have a family history of them. At the same time, UV rays trigger melanin production, which causes freckles to darken or appear after time in the sun. Can Sun Exposure Make Existing Skin Conditions Worse?Yes, sun exposure can aggravate many existing skin conditions, such as: Excessive sun can also intensify hyperpigmentation in conditions like melasma, making dark patches more noticeable. Additionally, some acne treatments or topical medications can increase photosensitivity, leading to irritation or burns with time in the sun. Shielding your skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting direct sunlight can help prevent these conditions from worsening. |
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you are experiencing symptoms of sun damage in Dallas that are interfering with your quality of life, a consultation with an experienced dermatologist may be the first step toward restoring your skin’s health and appearance.
At Dermatology Treatment and Research Center, our board-certified providers are clinical, cosmetic, and general dermatology experts. We are ready to provide high-quality care in a friendly and compassionate atmosphere. Call 972.661.2729 or fill out the form on this page to book an appointment.
