Conditions
Sun Damage
Renew and Protect Your Skin
The effects of sun exposure build up over time, often becoming more apparent with age. Whether you are dealing with sun spots, hyperpigmentation, or other signs of aging caused by sun exposure, Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C. offers solutions that can restore the health and appearance of your skin. Our individualized care and advanced dermatological treatments can help you achieve a bright, refreshed complexion while providing effective protection against further sun damage. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with sun-damaged skin and keep your skin healthy and radiant.
What Is Sun Damage?
Sun damage, also known as photoaging, refers to the cumulative effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin. Over time, UV exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to visible signs such as wrinkles, fine lines, and skin laxity. Pigmented lesions, often called sun spots or solar lentigines, are common indicators of long-term sun exposure. Other changes may include freckles, rough or leathery texture, spider veins, and uneven pigmentation. Beyond cosmetic concerns, chronic sun exposure increases the risk of precancerous lesions and skin cancers, making evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist essential for both health and appearance.
How Is Sun Damage Treated?
Effective sun damage treatment begins with a thorough dermatologic evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. This evaluation determines whether changes are primarily cosmetic or if they include precancerous or cancerous lesions requiring medical care. For precancerous growths such as actinic keratoses, treatments may include topical chemotherapy or cryosurgery, both of which are proven methods for reducing the risk of progression to skin cancer.
When the concern is cosmetic, treatments are selected based on the specific signs of photoaging. Chemical peels can exfoliate sun-damaged skin and reduce uneven pigmentation, while fractional laser therapy stimulates collagen renewal, improving wrinkles and texture. Vascular lasers such as Vbeam are particularly effective for targeting redness and visible blood vessels related to chronic UV exposure. These in-office procedures are often supported with medical-grade skincare, including retinoids and antioxidant formulations, to promote repair and protect against future UV damage.
Why Choose Cosmedica for Sun Damage Treatment?
Patients searching for sun damage treatment in Washington, D.C. choose Cosmedica Dermatology for physician-led, evidence-based care. Under the direction of Dr. Sara Hogan, a board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologist, every patient receives a comprehensive skin evaluation to distinguish photoaging from precancerous or cancerous lesions that may require medical therapy or biopsy. With expertise in fractional laser resurfacing, vascular laser treatments such as Vbeam, and chemical peels, Dr. Hogan combines advanced procedures with medical-grade skincare to address both the visible and underlying effects of UV damage.
Because sun damage varies widely—from pigmentation and fine lines to actinic keratoses or vascular changes—the best outcomes come from an individualized plan that integrates medical treatment when needed and cosmetic therapies when appropriate. This approach not only improves appearance but also safeguards long-term skin health, ensuring patients achieve clearer, healthier, and more resilient skin.
Concerned about the effects of sun damage on your skin? Schedule a consultation at Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., for a comprehensive evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist.
“Dr. Hogan is everything you’d want in a dermatologist: knowledgeable, attentive, and compassionate.”
M.M., Google Review