Repairing sun-damaged skin is essential not only for cosmetic reasons but also for reducing the risk of developing future skin cancers. At Kingsway Dermatology and Aesthetics (KDAA), we offer consultation and a comprehensive range of professional skincare products and advanced laser and energy-based treatments designed to repair sun damage and lower the risk of skin cancer.
Sun Protection and Sun Avoidance
- Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Use SPF 50+ daily and reapply every two hours, especially during outdoor activities.
- Protective Clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves to minimise UV exposure.
- Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during peak UV hours (10 AM–4 PM).
- Tanning Beds: Avoid using tanning beds entirely, as they increase the risk of skin damage and cancer.
Incorporating Nicotinamide and Antioxidants
Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3):
- Enhances DNA repair in skin cells.
- Reduces the incidence of actinic keratoses and non-melanoma skin cancers.
- Available as oral supplements and topical formulations.
Vitamin C:
- Neutralises free radicals caused by UV radiation.
- Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Promotes collagen production, improving texture and pigmentation.
Additional Antioxidants: Combine Vitamin C with Vitamin E and ferulic acid for enhanced protection and repair.
Prescription Creams for Precancerous Lesions
- Topical Retinoids (e.g., Tretinoin):
- Promote cell turnover and repair damaged skin.
- Reduce sunspots, fine lines, and precancerous cells.
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) Cream: Destroys abnormal skin cells, effectively treating visible and subclinical lesions.
- Imiquimod Cream: Stimulates the immune system to target and clear precancerous and cancerous cells.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and Laser-Assisted PDT
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT):
- Uses a photosensitising agent (e.g., ALA) to target abnormal cells.
- Activated by specific light wavelengths to destroy precancerous lesions.
- Treats visible lesions and subclinical damage, reducing future skin cancer risk.
- Enhances penetration and targeting of the photosensitising agent.
- Effective for thicker lesions or extensive sun damage.
- Provides cosmetic benefits like improved texture and reduced pigmentation.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Used to activate the photosensitising agent, offering additional benefits such as reduced discomfort and enhanced photo rejuvenation.
Laser-Assisted PDT:
Photo-Rejuvenation with Laser Treatments
Non-Ablative Fractionated Lasers (LUTRONIC ULTRA 1927, CANDELA NORDLYS 1550 and 1940)
- Stimulate collagen production and skin renewal.
- Treat fine lines, pigmentation, and subclinical precancerous cells.
- Ideal for mild to moderate sun damage.
Ablative Lasers (ACCLARO ULTRACLEAR, ALMA HYBRID):
- Remove damaged outer skin layers, promoting new, healthy skin growth.
- Effective for severe sun damage, with significant improvements in texture and tone.
- Can treat precancerous and cancerous lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas, such as the lips (e.g., laser vermilionectomy)
Reducing and repairing sun-damaged skin requires a comprehensive approach, including
- Strict sun protection practices.
- Incorporation of antioxidants like nicotinamide and Vitamin C.
- Use of prescription creams targeting precancerous lesions.
- Advanced treatments like PDT and laser therapies for both prevention and rejuvenation.
These treatments not only enhance the appearance of sun-damaged skin but also reduce the risk of future skin cancers, ensuring long-term skin health and protection. Reach out to KDAA for an appointment with one of our dermatology trained practitioners to answer any questions you have.
