Sun lesions refer to the damaged areas on the skin that result from continuous exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. The lesions are harmless in some cases, whereas others can cause severe skin disorders. Learning about the diagnosis, treatment, and management of sun lesions is important for healthy skin.
This guide is going to discuss what sun lesions are, how they can be removed, and how to avoid further occurrences of them.
What are sun lesions?
Sun lesions, solar lentigine, actinic keratosis, or sun spots are all terms for skin abnormalities caused by prolonged sun exposure. They generally appear on sun-exposed areas, such as:
- Face
- Neck
- Chest
- Arms
- Hands
- Scalp (especially bald people)
Common Types of Skin Lesions:
1. Actinic Keratosis (AK)
They are coarse scaly lesions that are pink, red, or brown. They are precancerous cells that may grow to be squamous cell carcinoma.
2. Solar Lentigines (Sun Spots)
These flat brown or black spots resemble big freckles. They are non-harmful yet they are indicative of sun damage.
3. Poikiloderma of Civatte
This is a reddish-brown stripe on the sides of the neck or chest with the presence of blood vessels.
How to get rid of Sun Lesions on the Skin
Several dermatological treatments and home-based therapies are available to help reduce or eliminate sun spots.
1. Topical Treatments
The superficial lesions are usually treated using creams or gels prescribed by the dermatologists.
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): cream used as topical chemotherapy against actinic keratosis.
- Imiquimod: Enhances the immune system to annihilate abnormal cells.
- Retinoids( Tretinoin): Accelerate the process of cell turnover and make pigmentation disappear.
- Hydroquinone: It is a skin-lightening agent used to treat sunspots.
Warning: All these products can lead to momentary redness, peeling, or irritation.
2. Treatment of small lesions by Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a low-temperature treatment that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze sun-damaged lesion skin. In this process, the mutation cells burst and peel which enables the regeneration of healthy skin. This is usually applied in the treatment of small and localized actinic keratoses and carries insignificant downtime. The procedure is fast and painless; the treatment is effective, and it is done at the office of a dermatologist.
3. Chemical Peels to Remove Sun-Damaged Skin
Acids such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid are used in chemical peels in order to provide an exfoliation of the topmost skin layers. This process enhances the tone of skin and makes the texture soft, as well as removes surface sun spots or solar lentigines. It also proves to be useful in the treatment of early lesions of the sun or in treating sun-damaged skin on the face, chest, or hands.
4. Sun Lesion and Pigmentation Laser Therapy
Laser treatments employing fractional lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) are particularly effective in eliminating pigmented and damaged skin cells caused by excessive sun exposure. It also reduces sunspots and fine wrinkles while promoting collagen renewal. This intervention effectively treats sun damage on the face and takes less time than topical treatment.
5. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) of Actinic Keratosis
Photodynamic Therapy applies a photosensitizing drug to an abnormal skin cell along with a special light source that destroys the cells. It is especially capable of remedying diffuse precancerous lesions such as actinic keratoses of the scalp or face. PDT is very effective cosmetically and is applicable in persons with numerous sun lesions.
6. Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion uses fine crystals with the effectiveness of exfoliating the surface layer of the skin whereas; dermabrasion involves the usage of rotating equipment that removes deeper layers of the skin. These treatments aid in getting rid of the dead skin cells, removal of discoloration, and enhancement of the skin tone. Dermabrasion is usually advisable in cases of deep or stubborn sun lesions and improves skin renewal.
7. Home and Natural Remedies
Some natural therapies have a chance of accelerating skin healing although not as effective as medical therapies:
- Aloe vera: Nurturing and healing the skin tension.
- Green tea extract: Has antioxidants that can help to curb inflammation.
- Vitamin C serums: Aids in giving a brighter skin and minimizes pigmentation.
Warning: Do not start treatment at home without consulting the dermatologist.
Post-Treatment and Healing Advice
After any procedure of treating sun lesions, the skin is delicate. Similar outcomes are guaranteed by taking proper care:
- Use mild soaps
- Put on healing ointments as instructed
- During healing, avoid direct sunlight
- Use a sunblock every day (SPF 30 or more)
Depending on the form of treatment, healing normally takes 1 to 4 weeks.
Prevention of Future Sun Lesions
To avoid developing new sun lesions, use the following skin protection habits:
- Avoid sunburn by applying sunscreen, particularly a broad-spectrum one, daily, even when inside or during the winter season.
- Apply sunscreen again between the time lapse of 2 hours, particularly outdoors.
- Use protective gear, broad-topped hats, and pairs of sunglasses.
- Remember not to go out to the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. the time that the sun is at its peak.
Avoid tanning beds.
When should you visit a dermatologist?
See a skin expert in case you observe:
- Any new lesions that enlarge or alter rapidly
- Bleeding Spots, itchy spots, and spots that do not heal
- A history of carcinoma or frequent sunburns
Sun lesions can become cancerous; therefore, early treatment should be done to avoid this.
Conclusion
Sun lesions are quite common, but it is possible to treat or eliminate them with the help of medical procedures and home remedies. Most of the lesions can be eliminated without complications with early intervention.
At LaserLite, the dermatologists provide excellent services on all types of sun lesions. Whether you experience sunspots or precancerous changes, individualized care, and evidence-based solutions are available to you. Contact us immediately to book your skin rejuvenation appointment.
