How To Address Photoaging Effectively

While patients often seek aesthetics procedures for a variety of skin concerns, photoaging is one of the most common. In fact, photorejuvenation was one of the top five non-surgical procedures performed in 2019. A thorough understanding of photoaging and how it can damage the skin has enabled experts to develop cutting-edge technology to treat the condition and provide a fresher, more youthful appearance to patients. Here’s a closer look at what photoaging is, how it affects the skin, and why photorejuvenation can be an effective tool to combat it.

Photoaging: Another Name for Skin Damage

Photoaging refers to the skin damage caused by exposure to UVA and UVB rays. These rays are produced by the sun, tanning beds, and sun lamps. They often cause premature aging, darkening and thickening of the outer layer of skin, and has been linked to skin cancer. While the skin does alter naturally as we age, exposure to the sun or tanning beds can accelerate these kinds of changes. 

Our skin has three layers: the outer layer, or epidermis; the middle layer, or dermis; and the inner layer, or subcutaneous tissue. It is the dermis that most influences the appearance of skin because it contains proteins—such as elastin and collagen—and other fibers that affect the overall elasticity and strength of the skin. UV radiation can damage these fibers and subsequently result in photoaging.

Photoaging can cause the following:

• Age spots/dark spots: Exposure to UV light can increase the production of melanin, the pigment that colors the skin. Age spots are the result of high concentrations or clumps of melanin.
• Broken blood vessels: Ultraviolet light can also damage and weaken the walls of superficial blood vessels, which then may become visible through the skin.
• Loose skin: Collagen and elastin connect and support the skin, but UV light can harm both, causing the skin to sag.
• Leathery texture: Damage to collagen could increase the production of abnormal elastin, which is turn produces enzymes that may further degrade collagen as it is rebuilt. Continual exposure to UV rays can cause this destructive cycle, which might result in leathery-looking skin.
• Wrinkles: Because UV rays can break down collagen and elastin, it may cause premature aging and the development of fine lines.

What Is Photorejuvenation? 

Photorejuvenation, sometimes called a photofacial, involves the use of IPL, or intense pulsed light, to penetrate deep into the skin. This process triggers the blood vessels and collagen under the epidermis to tighten, which can reduce redness and wrinkles. Results often appear gradually after multiple treatment sessions.

Venus Concept’s Venus Versa™ utilizes IPL with SmartPulse™ technology to provide reliable photorejevenation treatment for patients. The Venus Versa™ uses broad-spectrum light pulses which are filtered and delivered into the skin, reducing the look of vascular lesions, age spots and wrinkles. The cutting-edge technology of the Venus Versa™ includes IPL applicators with SmartPulse™ for consistent, precise pulses of light, and a cooling system that monitors temperature to ensure patient comfort and safety.

Another advantage of the Venus Versa™ is its versatility; it can be used for hair removal, skin resurfacing, and wrinkle reduction treatments.

Fall: A Prime Time for Photorejuvenation

After a summer spent in the sun, many patients may want to correct some of the damage done to their skin. This makes fall a prime time to offer photorejuvenation treatments. Let patients know that the procedures are quick, comfortable, and can produce noticeable results with no downtime.

Venus Versa™ is only one of the many devices that Venus Concept offers. In addition to our state-of-the-art medical aesthetic devices, we have a unique business model that includes our Practice Enhancement Management (PEM) program, simple equipment upgrades, marketing support, consulting services, and ongoing education to help your business thrive. We work with you to help determine which devices fits the needs of your practice. To learn more, reach out to one of our experts today.