Shining a new light on sun-damaged skin
Have you noticed some dry, scaly or crusty patches on your skin, that may even bleed sometimes?1,2 You might have seen a new age spot, a pimple or just irritated skin on the sun-exposed areas like your face, ears, scalp, the back of your hand, forearm or your legs. 1-3 If so, you’re not alone! And while you may think it’s just a harmless mark, it might not be. 3 Today, sun-damaged skin is so common it affects about 6 in 10 Canadians over forty. 1
Should I be concerned if I have sun-damaged skin?
While the patches are not usually serious, there is a chance that it could become skin cancer down the road if left untreated. 2 That’s why it’s important to check your skin regularly and see your doctor if you notice any damage like this on your skin.
Who’s at risk for sun-damaged skin?
While everyone is at risk for sun damage, some are more at risk than others. If you’re fair-skinned or, light-haired, freckle and burn, you face the greatest risk from sun damage. It’s also a concern for anyone over 40 who’s had long-term sun exposure.2 more
Sun damage is cumulative so don’t underestimate its effect on your skin if you’ve done a lot of outdoor activities like golf, tennis, hiking, swimming, boating, or just tanning in general. Outdoor workers in agriculture, construction, gardeners, police officers, physical education teachers, ski instructors, lifeguards and fisherman all have a greater risk of sun damage too. 2, 4 If you have a history of sun exposure, make sure you share any changes in your skin with your doctor as soon as you see them. less
Long-term effects of skin damage
If left untreated, sun-damaged skin can develop into skin cancer. The latest medical research stresses that people with sun-damaged skin have a more than six times risk of developing skin cancer. 5 more
Early intervention for sun-damaged skin is recommended in Canada, as it’s virtually impossible to know if it will develop into skin cancer. 2 less
Your hat is your best defence
The best protection for sun-damaged skin is prevention. Protect your skin from sun damage at all times! Wear a wide brim hat, sunglasses and protective clothing. Use sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days. more
Limit time in the sun, especially from 10:00am – 2:00pm. Also, tanning beds or other indoor tanning devices should always be avoided as the damage from them could be stronger than the sun’s rays! 2 less
The power of light
According to The Canadian Cancer Society, Light Therapy (also know as photodynamic therapy) uses photosensitive cream that is applied to the damaged area of the skin. After several hours, the sun-damaged cells are exposed to a low-intensity red light or regular daylight when outside. 6 The treatment is all done in just one visit.
Cosmetic benefits of Light Therapy
The Canadian Cancer Society notes that with light therapy there’s a better chance that your skin will look good. 6 If you’re concerned about treating sun damage without scarring, talk to your doctor about light therapy and the cosmetic benefits of this non-invasive method that doesn’t involve surgery.
Is Light Therapy safe?
Side effects can happen with any type of treatment for sun-damaged skin. The Canadian Cancer Society says everyone’s experience with light therapy is different. Some may have side effects, others may have none at all. Most side effects go away when the light treatment is over.6
Take the sun damage quiz to see if you are at risk
References:
- Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation. Actinic Keratoses (AK). Available at: https://www.canadianskincancerfoundation.com/skin-cancer/actinic-keratosis-ak/
- Canadian Dermatology Association. Actinic Keratoses. Available at: https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/skin/actinic-keratoses/
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Actinic keratosis: Overview. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/actinic-keratosis-overview
- John SM et al. Consensus Report: Recognizing non-melanoma skin cancer, including actinic keratosis, as an occupational disease - A Call to Action. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016;3:38-45. Available at: doi: 10.1111/jdv.13608.
- Reinehr CPH, Bakos RM. Actinic keratoses: review of clinical, dermoscopic, and therapeutic aspects. An Bras Dermatol:2019;94(6):637-657. doi:10.1016/j.abd.2019.10.004
- Canadian Cancer Society. Photodynamic therapy for non-melanoma skin cancer. Available at: https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/skin-non-melanoma/treatment/photodynamic-therapy
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