As children of the 80s, we have been around the sun a few times. For most of us, the trips around the sun were done without protection. Laying out by the pool with no barrier between our skin and the hot sun’s rays to get the best tan in school, to taking our children to the beach in our 20s and 30s (although we lathered sunscreen on our kids, there was no sunscreen on us!), to now traveling and forgetting to pack the sunscreen and hat.
No matter your age, if you spend enough time in the sun, you’re going to end up with sun damage to your skin. The damaging rays of the sun have taken a toll on many of us in our 40s and beyond. Laugh lines are increased, crow’s feet are deeper, and sun spots are more prevalent than 20 years ago.
What Causes Sun Damage
UV radiation is what damages the skin. Depending on where you live, the season and your skin type, your risk factors will vary from others. The UVB radiation is responsible for sunburns and direct DNA damage. The UVA is more constant through the day, unlike UVB which is higher from 10:00am -3:00pm. UVA is what is responsible for your tan but can also alter DNA and indirectly lead to certain skin cancers caused by forming free radicals.
Preventing Sun Damage
While there are some topical treatments that can help reduce the effects of sun damage, it’s important to also take other steps to protect your skin from the sun. Wearing sunscreen every day, avoiding peak hours of sunlight, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat are all excellent ways to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. But even if you take precautions, you may not be immune to the effects of decades of sun exposure.
Reversing Sun Damage
With the effects of sun damage to the skin accumulating over decades, it’s not too late to reverse some of the damage. At Triangle Eye Institute, we offer RF and Plasma Skin Resurfacing to reduce fine lines, sun spots and other effects of sun damaged skin. By using radiofrequency (RF) and plasma technology, our patients get the maximum benefits of skin resurfacing.
A Consult
A consultation will help Dr. Steven Yaplee understand your skin type, treatment and goals to maximize the results of your RF and Plasma Skin Resurfacing. In addition to creating a treatment plan, you will be given certain instructions before your appointment. This may include limited sun exposure for a few days leading up to the treatment.
The Procedure
The procedure is fairly simple. As you sit in the special chair, the laser is programed to target specific areas of your skin. There may be slight discomfort as the Opus system is removing dead skin and promoting collagen growth.
The Opus system is noninvasive and patients should expect a quick recover time. Unlike surgery, the recovery may feel slightly uncomfortable like a sunburn. Minimizing sun exposure during this time will help the recovery. A mild cleanser and moisturizer will help freshen the new skin too. You should be feeling back to normal in 2-3 days.
RF and Plasma Skin Resurfacing is a great option for those who don’t want a long recovery. With a few minutes of treatment, you can be well on your way to softer and blemish-free skin. Contact Triangle Eye Institute and schedule a consultation to see if RF and Plasma Skin resurfacing is for you. Dr. Steven Yaplee will explain all your options and guide you through the correct process to benefit you the most.
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