Years of sun exposure can leave visible changes in the skin, including wrinkles, sun spots, freckles, uneven pigmentation, and other signs of premature aging. The dermatology team at Northstar Dermatology evaluates and treats sun-damaged skin for patients throughout Fort Worth with recommendations based on the type and extent of damage present.
If you are concerned about changes caused by years of Texas sun exposure, schedule an evaluation with a Fort Worth sun damage dermatologist.
Sunlight contains different forms of radiation, including ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays.
UVB rays primarily affect the outer layers of the skin and are a major cause of sunburn. UVA rays penetrate more deeply and contribute to long-term changes in skin structure, pigmentation, and aging.
For Fort Worth patients, sun exposure can accumulate through everyday activities such as commuting, yard work, outdoor sports, recreation, and time spent outside during long North Texas summers.
Visible skin changes that develop over time may be caused or worsened by repeated sun exposure.
Aging naturally causes fine lines and wrinkles, but cumulative sun exposure can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and other supportive structures in the skin, contributing to premature aging.
Sun spots, sometimes called age spots, may develop after years of UV exposure. They often appear as flat areas of increased pigmentation on frequently exposed areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.
Freckles are small areas of increased pigmentation that often become more noticeable after sun exposure, particularly in people with lighter skin tones.
Long-term UV exposure also increases the risk of skin cancer. Patients who notice new, changing, or non-healing spots may benefit from a skin cancer screening or evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist.
Northstar Dermatology also provides evaluation of moles and other changes that may develop on sun-exposed skin.
Treatment for sun-damaged skin depends on the type of change present, its severity, and your medical history.
Some concerns may be primarily cosmetic, while others may require closer medical evaluation. Your dermatologist can determine whether pigmentation, texture changes, or suspicious lesions should be monitored, treated, biopsied, or referred for additional care.
Sun protection is also an important part of preventing further damage. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting prolonged exposure during intense sunlight can help reduce additional UV-related changes.
Patients with other skin concerns related to sun exposure can also explore Northstar Dermatology’s medical dermatology services.
