Can Laser Resurfacing Help Sun-Damaged Skin?
Living in Australia means our skin is exposed to significant UV radiation throughout our lives.
Over time, cumulative sun exposure can contribute to changes including uneven pigmentation, fine lines, rough texture and loss of skin quality.
If you're noticing these changes, you may be wondering whether laser resurfacing can help sun-damaged skin.
What is sun damage?
Photodamage refers to changes in the skin caused by cumulative exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
It can contribute to:
Fine lines
Wrinkles
Uneven pigmentation
Rough texture
Loss of elasticity
Uneven skin tone
Not all pigmentation is the same, however, and a clinical assessment is important before treating any pigmented lesion.
How does CO₂ laser address photodamage?
Fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing can improve several visible signs associated with photoageing.
Controlled laser treatment creates microscopic areas of treatment within the skin, stimulating a wound-healing and remodelling response.
This can contribute to improvements in skin texture and the appearance of certain photoageing changes.
Can CO₂ laser remove sun damage?
It's better to think in terms of improving the appearance of sun-damaged skin rather than completely removing all evidence of sun exposure.
Laser resurfacing can improve the appearance of certain signs of photodamage.
It does not erase your lifetime UV exposure, and it doesn't prevent future sun damage.
What about pigmentation?
Pigmentation requires careful assessment.
Some forms of sun-related pigmentation may respond to laser or other treatments.
However, not every brown mark should be treated cosmetically without appropriate assessment.
If a pigmented lesion is new, changing, bleeding, itching or otherwise concerning, it should be assessed medically rather than simply treated as cosmetic pigmentation.
Can CO₂ laser improve sun-related wrinkles?
Yes, fractional CO₂ laser can be considered for fine lines and wrinkles associated with photodamage.
By stimulating collagen remodelling and improving skin texture, resurfacing can contribute to a smoother-looking complexion.
Can sun damage come back after treatment?
Yes.
Laser resurfacing doesn't make your skin immune to UV radiation.
Without ongoing sun protection, new photodamage can develop.
That means sunscreen and sensible sun protection remain an important part of any long-term skin health plan.
Is CoolPeel suitable for sun-damaged skin?
CoolPeel may be considered when the goal is lighter resurfacing and improvement in superficial skin quality.
More established textural changes may require a different treatment intensity.
Your practitioner will determine what approach is appropriate.
What about DOT Therapy?
DOT Therapy provides a more intensive fractional CO₂ resurfacing option and may be considered for more pronounced textural concerns.
Treatment settings can be customised depending on the area being treated and the degree of resurfacing appropriate for your skin.
Treating sun-damaged skin in Sydney
If you're considering laser treatment for sun damage in Sydney, a consultation can help determine whether CO₂ laser resurfacing is appropriate.
At Mode Aesthetics, we consider the overall condition of your skin, pigmentation and treatment goals before recommending a treatment plan.
