International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology
ACTINIC DAMAGE – See also Telangiectasia
Actinic damage, also called sun damage, represents skin changes due to excessive sun exposure. Ultraviolet light A (UVA) interferes with DNA repair through the release of reactive oxygen, resulting in oxidation of both protein and lipids, whereas ultraviolet light B (UVB) causes DNA mutations.
Signs of sun damage include: |
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With more extensive sun exposure, there is the risk of developing skin cancer: |
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Skin cancer is completely curable when treated in the early stages. |
Photoaging may be defined as the damage from sunlight, as opposed to normal aging, where the skin loses its elasticity, becomes thinner, and develops fragility. The two processes may be indistinguishable. |
Some sunlight exposure is beneficial, but too much sun is not good. |
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Be reasonable under the sun should be the motto and use sun protection: |
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Lawrence Charles Parish, MD, MD (Hon)
Philadelphia, PA, USA
Marcia Ramos-e-Silva, MD, PhD
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil