Long days at the beach, soaking up the sun in the great outdoors or simply spending time in the tanning bed can give you that sun-kissed look you crave – but can also do some damage to your skin.

Skin cells are especially vulnerable to UV damage as we get older, and applying sunscreen isn’t always enough. Keeping skin healthy and reducing the amount of time in the sunshine are preventative measures that can protect your skin from damage for the long-term, but what do you do when the damage is done? 

Here are some simple ways to restore your skin when you’ve had too much fun in the sun:

Laser Skin Resurfacing for Sun Damaged Skin

Laser skin resurfacing treatments are an intensive skin rejuvenation procedure that can help minimize the appearance of scars and buff away the top layer of skin. Laser skin resurfacing technologies can help take years off your appearance, and are particularly effective for sun damaged skin that may not be healing properly.  Since the laser penetrates deep within the skin’s surface, skin cells are forced to ‘turnover’ and reproduce at a rapid rate. The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance and the elimination of sun damaged skin spots or patches of pigmented skin.

Microdermabrasion After Too Much Sun

You’ll need to wait out any sunburn or inflammation before pursuing microdermabrasion, but this exfoliating treatment can help buff away dead skin cells and give you that ‘inner glow.’ Microdermabrasion can help brighten up a dull complexion and also boosts collagen production deep within the skin’s layers.  You’ll see immediate results, and a noticeable difference in the texture and tone of your skin after a few days.

PhotoFacials after Sun Damage

PhotoFacials are a facial rejuvenation treatment that can erase sun spots, freckles and even out pigmented skin.  A series of photo light therapy treatments can help restore your skin to good health, and may also clear up blemishes or light acne.  If you’re suffering from frequent breakouts after sun damage, photofacials may be the best treatment for you.

Medical Facials to Restore the Skin

A facial treatment at the medspa is another way to restore the skin after sun damage, but you will need a series of treatments in order to see noticeable results. Chemical peels and moisturizing facials that infuse the skin with cell-repairing vitamins and minerals can clear up the complexion and stimulate the growth of fresh skin cells. Some facials can be combined with microdermabrasion or other skin resurfacing procedures for a more comprehensive treatment.  

Oxygen Facials to Revive the Skin

If your skin has dried out and feels ‘under nourished’ after too much sun exposure, an oxygen or hydrating  facial could be the best treatment for you. These facial treatments are designed to open up the pores for extended periods of time so that minerals and vitamins can settle deep into the pores. These types of facial treatments are typically longer than the average medical facial or relaxation treatment, and can help give your skin an extra boost after extensive damage. If you’re suffering from sun damaged skin that won’t heal on its own, an intensive facial rejuvenation treatment may help restore your skin back to good health. 

Learn more about microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing and other skin treatments in our information guides, or consult with a cosmetic surgeon in your area for a treatment plan that best suits your needs.