Is there a treatment for sun damage, sun spots & loose skin for the body?

Question

I did a lot of damage to my skin in my teens 20s and 30s with the tanning bed and sun. In my mid 30s I started using sunscreen. In my late 40s early 50s I have had 5 surgeries to remove skin cancer and now my skin is prematurely aging around my arms and knees especially. With loose skin and sunspots, I'm wondering if there is any treatment that can be done on the body to get rid of spots & tighten skin??!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. I like using the erbium laser for treatment of sun damaged skin. It’s very useful in turning back the clock 5-7 years. Downtime is approximately 10-14 days. Make sure to see an experienced physician for your evaluation and treatment. 
Good luck,

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It’s great that you’ve been proactive in using sunscreen and addressing skin cancer. There are several treatments available that can help improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, sun spots, and loose skin on the body:

Laser Treatments: Procedures such as fractional laser resurfacing and intense pulsed light (IPL) can help reduce sun spots and improve skin texture. These treatments work by targeting pigment and stimulating collagen production.

Chemical Peels: Medium to deep chemical peels can exfoliate the damaged outer layers of skin, reducing sun spots and promoting the growth of new, healthier skin.

Microneedling with Radiofrequency: This combination treatment can be effective for tightening loose skin and improving skin texture by stimulating collagen and elastin production.

Topical Treatments: Prescription-strength topical treatments containing retinoids, hydroquinone, and other lightening agents can help reduce the appearance of sun spots over time.

Ultrasound and Radiofrequency Skin Tightening: Non-invasive treatments like Ultherapy or Thermage use ultrasound or radiofrequency energy to heat deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and tightening the skin.

Body Contouring Procedures: For more significant skin laxity, procedures like body lifts or minimally invasive treatments like laser-assisted liposuction may be considered.

It’s important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for your specific concerns and skin type. They can provide a personalized approach to help you achieve the best possible results.

Warm regards,

Guilherme Szerman, MD · Answer

Hydroquinone creams for nighttime use are the most effective in dermatology. However, it should be used with caution as the skin may become sensitive.

Is there a treatment for sun damage, sun spots & loose skin for the body?

Answers (4)

Answer: Hydroquinone creams

Answer: Hydroquinone creams

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Is there a treatment for sun damage, sun spots & loose skin for the body?

Answers (4)

Answer: Hydroquinone creams

Answer: Hydroquinone creams

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.