Other Skin Conditions

Sun Damaged Skin

Overview

Name

Sun Damaged Skin

Type

Other Skin Conditions

Ultraviolet light (UV) can penetrate the skin and damage DNA and proteins. Genetic changes that result from UV exposure can potentially lead to the development of skin cancer. Genetic changes in the DNA of cells can also affect cell function. For instance, genetic changes in a melanocyte (pigment cell) may result in overproduction of pigment (a brown spot) or may even halt pigment production, causing a white spot. Genetic changes to squamous cells can result in the overproduction of keratin, resulting in the formation of a cutaneous horn or rough-feeling aggregates of keratin on the skin surface (see image 4).

 

Many of the characteristics that we typically associate with “aging” skin are the result of cumulative sun exposure. UV can damage and weaken the delicate cells of blood vessels in the dermis. When these fragile vessels rupture in elderly individuals, a purple bruise can be seen on the skin surface (known as purpura). When UV damages elastic fibers and other proteins in the dermis, the skin becomes thin and wrinkled.

 

All photographs and diagrams are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to be used for diagnosis. A dermatologist should be consulted for examination and diagnosis of skin lesions.

Images

The skin of the upper arm of this elderly woman, which was protected by her life-long use of a short-sleeved shirt, contrasts with the extensive sun damage of her lower, sun-exposed forearm. Note the presence of a large purple bruise (purpura).
The skin of the upper arm of this elderly woman, which was protected by her life-long use of a short-sleeved shirt, contrasts with the extensive sun damage of her lower, sun-exposed forearm. Note the presence of a large purple bruise (purpura).
Life-long sun exposure to the forearm resulting in wrinkling, pale areas (hypopigmentation), dark spots (hyperpigmentation), and dry scaly skin.
Life-long sun exposure to the forearm resulting in wrinkling, pale areas (hypopigmentation), dark spots (hyperpigmentation), and dry scaly skin.
Note the presence of numerous red, scaly actinic keratoses (precancers) resulting from chronic sun exposure. The large pale area is the result of previous treatment for either an advanced actinic keratosis or a squamous cell carcinoma.
Note the presence of numerous red, scaly actinic keratoses (precancers) resulting from chronic sun exposure. The large pale area is the result of previous treatment for either an advanced actinic keratosis or a squamous cell carcinoma.
Severe sun damage on the forearm as a result of chronic sun exposure. Note the prominent aggregates of keratin on the skin surface, which appear as yellow-white clumps. (Photo courtesy of a very kind Hawaii patient)
Severe sun damage on the forearm as a result of chronic sun exposure. Note the prominent aggregates of keratin on the skin surface, which appear as yellow-white clumps. (Photo courtesy of a very kind Hawaii patient)
These cross-hatched wrinkles are often seen on the front and back of the neck of individuals with chronic sun exposure.
These cross-hatched wrinkles are often seen on the front and back of the neck of individuals with chronic sun exposure.
UV penetration of epidermis and dermis. Use of sun block can lessen UV penetration and decrease the long-term risk for sun-damaged skin and skin cancer.
UV penetration of epidermis and dermis. Use of sun block can lessen UV penetration and decrease the long-term risk for sun-damaged skin and skin cancer.
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