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Sun Damage
Understanding the Effects of Sun Exposure on Your Skin
Australia’s high levels of ultraviolet radiation mean that many people experience the effects of cumulative sun exposure over time.
Sun damage can affect the skin at a cellular and structural level, contributing to visible changes as well as increasing the risk of precancerous and cancerous skin lesions.
Pathogenesis
Ultraviolet radiation can contribute to:
- DNA damage
- Collagen and elastin breakdown
- Pigment dysregulation
- Oxidative stress
- Inflammation
- Immune suppression within the skin
Over time, these changes can contribute to both photoageing and the development of sun-related skin conditions.
Types of Sun Damage
Sun damage can present in a number of ways, including:
- Photoageing
- Solar lentigines
- Actinic keratoses
- Diffuse pigmentation
- Telangiectasia
- Solar elastosis
Contributing Factors
The severity of sun damage can be influenced by:
- Cumulative UV exposure
- History of sunburn
- Fair or sun-sensitive skin
- High UV exposure
- Inadequate sun protection
- Certain photosensitising medications
Grading
Sun damage may be assessed according to:
- Severity of photoageing
- Number and distribution of actinic keratoses
- Pigmentation changes
- Vascular changes
- Changes in skin texture and elasticity
- Individual skin cancer risk
Treatment by Severity
Mild
Vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide, SPF
Moderate
Peels, IPL, fractional lasers, hydroquinone, microneedling.
Moderate–Severe
CO₂/erbium resurfacing, field therapy (5-FU, imiquimod, PDT), combination therapy.
Severe
Dermatology referral, biopsy, skin cancer management, long-term surveillance.
Prevention
Preventing further UV damage remains an important part of long-term skin health.This includes:
- Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Reapplication of sunscreen when required
- Protective clothing
- Hats and sunglasses
- Seeking shade
- Avoiding deliberate tanning
- Regular skin checks where appropriate