How to reverse last summer's sun damage

As we bid farewell to summer, many of us are left with unwanted souvenirs from our days in the sun. Sun damage manifests as pigmentation irregularities, fine lines and uneven skin tone, and these skin problems can leave us feeling less than confident in our skin.

Fortunately, advancements in medical aesthetics offer effective solutions to help reverse the signs of sun damage.

Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments have emerged as popular choices for rejuvenating and restoring the skin's natural radiance. In this guide, we'll explore the Genesis, Fotona, and IPL laser treatments, offering insights into their benefits and considerations for those considering these procedures.

Laser and IPL treatments

Laser and IPL treatments work by targeting specific pigments or structures in the skin. They stimulate collagen production and promote skin renewal. These non-invasive procedures address a range of concerns, including sun damage, age spots, freckles, fine lines, and vascular issues such as rosacea or broken capillaries.

Here’s an overview of the best laser treatment options to reverse sun damage:

Genesis laser

Genesis laser treatment utilises non-ablative laser technology to gently heat the deeper layers of the skin, promoting collagen production and improving overall skin texture. This procedure is ideal for individuals looking to reduce fine lines, minimise pores, improve skin elasticity, and achieve a more youthful appearance without downtime.

Fotona laser

Fotona laser treatment offers a comprehensive solution for sun-damaged skin, targeting both surface pigmentation and deeper skin concerns. This laser system combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths to address a wide range of skin conditions, including sun spots, wrinkles, and uneven texture, with minimal discomfort and downtime.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

IPL treatment harnesses broad-spectrum light energy to target pigment irregularities and vascular lesions, effectively diminishing sun spots, redness, and visible blood vessels. This non-invasive procedure is highly customisable, allowing for precise adjustment of parameters to address specific skin concerns. IPL is suitable for treating various areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and hands.

Considerations and precautions before your treatment

Laser and IPL treatments offer significant benefits for sun-damaged skin. However, it's essential to approach these procedures with caution and realistic expectations. Before undergoing any laser treatment, a thorough consultation with a qualified dermal therapist is crucial.

If you're seeking to reverse last summer's sun damage and restore your skin's youthful glow, laser and IPL treatments offer safe, effective solutions tailored to your unique needs.

Whether you choose Genesis, Fotona, or IPL, consulting with a qualified skincare professional will ensure personalised care and optimal results.

Learn about maintaining your skin health in your FREE skin consult with our dermal clinicians.

References:
Kim J, Lee J, Choi H. Intense Pulsed Light Attenuates UV-Induced Hyperimmune Response and Pigmentation in Human Skin Cells. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(6):3173. Published 2021 Mar 20. doi:10.3390/ijms22063173

Milante RR, Doria-Ruiz MJ, Beloso MB, Espinoza-Thaebtharm A. Split-face comparison of grid fractional radiofrequency vs 1064-nm Nd-YAG laser treatment of periorbital rhytides among Filipino patients. Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14031. doi:10.1111/dth.14031

Burmann TG, Duarte FB, Akaishi PMS. Fox eyes lift-A new protocol for eyebrow elevation with laser Fotona. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23(2):450-456. doi:10.1111/jocd.16014

Sales AFS, Pandolfo IL, de Almeida Cruz M, et al. Intense Pulsed Light on skin rejuvenation: a systematic review. Arch Dermatol Res. 2022;314(9):823-838. doi:10.1007/s00403-021-02283-2