Reverse the Rays: Cosmetic Treatments That Target Sun Damage

In honor of Melanoma Awareness Month

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and while our number one message is always prevention first, it’s also a good time to talk about how sun damage can show up on your skin—and what you can do about it.

Years of UV exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, rough texture, fine lines, and a dull, uneven skin tone. The good news? There are safe and effective cosmetic treatments available to help reverse visible signs of sun damage—and restore your glow.

Here are a few patient-favorite options:

Chemical Peels

These exfoliating treatments remove damaged outer layers of skin, helping improve texture, tone, and pigmentation. Peels can fade sunspots, soften fine lines, reveal a brighter, more even complexion and can also help boost collagen production.  A lesser-known fact: chemical peels can remediate precancerous skin lesions (actinic keratosis).

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacials

Think of this as a light-based eraser for freckles, sunspots, and redness. IPL targets pigmented and vascular areas which can be caused by UV exposure—breaking them up so your body can naturally clear them away. The result? Smoother, clearer, more even skin.

Laser Resurfacing

For deeper sun damage, fractional laser treatments can dramatically improve skin tone, texture, and wrinkles. These treatments work by removing the outermost layers of the skin, stimulating new collagen production.

Microneedling with PRP

Also known as the “vampire facial,” this treatment uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin—stimulating collagen and elastin. When combined with PRP (platelet-rich plasma), it can help improve sun damage, fine lines, and skin texture with minimal downtime.

Medical-Grade Skincare

Pairing in-office treatments with the right skincare can make a big difference. Look for products with ingredients like vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals that can damage skin cells, or retinol, which increases skin cell turnover.

A Friendly Reminder:

No matter what treatments you choose, SPF is non-negotiable. Daily sunscreen use is the most effective way to prevent new damage—and to protect the results of your skincare and cosmetic investments.  Because these treatments temporarily disrupt your skin barrier,  they also temporarily increase sun sensitivity.

Celebrate Melanoma Awareness Month by giving your skin the care it deserves. Whether you’re looking to restore a more radiant complexion or reduce signs of damage, our team can help you choose the treatment that’s right for your skin type and goals.