Sun Damage in the Miami Heat

Posted August 22, 2017 in Plastic Surgery

We all know the adage, “If you want to protect your skin, stay out of the sun.” But that’s a lot easier said than done, especially when the blue Miami sky and the beach are beckoning from outside the window all year long. Not many want to stay inside on a warm, sunny day when they could be enjoying the natural wonders of the outdoors. We crave that sun-kissed skin tone, and we revel in the rejuvenating benefits of vitamin D. However, while we may love the idea of spending hours sunbathing on the sand or running around the park, our skin does not. It’s no secret that the constant exposure can damage the appearance of our skin in the form of age spots, wrinkles, and other unwanted imperfections. Ultraviolet (UV) rays rapidly damage our natural collagen much in the way that aging does. That’s why sun-damaged skin often results with a disconnect between the age we look and the age we feel. And when skin creams, pricey lotions, and chemical peels aren’t going deep enough to get rid of those spots, discolorations, and wrinkles, it may be time to consider another way to restore your skin’s natural, youthful glow.

What Causes Age Spots and Wrinkles?

UV light is the leading cause of age spots, wrinkles, and differences in pigmentation. These rays increase the production of melanin, which overstimulates pigment cells and results in discoloration. UV rays penetrate deep into the skin to break down the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, thus damaging the connective tissues and visibly speeding the natural aging process. As skin ages, it loses its flexibility, leading to fine lines and wrinkles across the face, neck, and hands.

The CO₂ Laser

This brings us to a question: how does one combat the effects of sun damage? One way to do this is with CO₂ laser technology. The CO₂ laser reduces the appearance of age spots, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone and texture on your face, neck, and hands. It can even benefit those dealing with pesky acne scars and freckles. Whether you are looking to touch up a small area or rejuvenate your entire face, this non-surgical laser works by stimulating collagen production and removing damaged cells without harming healthy tissue. An additional laser will then remove the excess pigmentation, therefore improving a variety of skin imperfections and allowing your skin to make a fresh start.

So even if you have skin that has seen one too many hours of sunlight, skin that has been scarred by acne, or skin that’s lost its luster because of aging, it’s not too late to improve the look and feel of your skin.

If you’re looking to rejuvenate your damaged skin, Careaga Plastic Surgery offers the latest laser technology to perfectly suit your needs. For more information or to set up a consultation, call our Miami office at (305) 960-7511 or fill out our online contact form. Dr. Careaga is double certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, and he is interested in meeting with you today!