Irvine CA area specialist discusses common causes of skin problems requiring professional care, treatment

The Los Angeles metro gets anywhere from around 260 to more than 290 days of sun annually. It’s probably at least partly-sunny right now! This pleasant climate is one of many draws to the area, but even the sun has its dark side.

Dermatologists see the effects of exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun and tanning every day. The good news is these unwanted effects are largely preventable with ongoing skin care.

Photoaging

No matter what the marketing behind the miracle creams say, you can’t really turn back the clock. Age-related changes such as decreased production of collagen and elastin and less subcutaneous fat ultimately lead to wrinkling and loose skin.

UV rays can speed up age-related changes. For this reason, younger people with a history of sun-worshipping and sunburns can age prematurely. In the patients that Arta Dermatology sees, normal age-related changes may be made worse by exposing the skin to UV light without proper protection.

Visible signs of photoaging include:

• Fine lines around the eyes and mouth
• Horizontal lines on the forehead
• Spots or patches that are darker than surrounding skin
• Uneven tone
• Broken blood vessels, especially on the cheeks and nose
• Red, scaly patches
• Loss of lip volume

Ironically, dermatologists can use light-based therapies to improve the appearance of, or even eliminate, these signs of aging, but the best wrinkle or dark spot is the one that never develops in the first place!

Dr. Farshidi can recommend lifestyle and behavioral modifications to prevent further damage. She can also recommend products to reverse existing damage. The No. 1 product in your skin care collection should be a broad-spectrum UVA-UVB sunscreen. Wear this sun protection daily, even on the rare days the sun doesn’t shine in Southern California.

Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Melanoma is responsible for 75 percent of all skin cancer-related deaths. It is also the 5th most common cancer among Caucasians in California. Since sunburns are among the risk factors for these cancers, it is largely preventable. It is also highly treatable if caught early.

The signs of photoaging listed above can also be red flags for skin cancers. Squamous cell cancers can start as pre-cancerous scaly red or flesh-colored patches. Brown age or liver spots and moles can actually be melanomas or develop into this deadly form of skin cancer.

Aside from exercising daily sun protection and avoidance as recommended, it is crucial to perform regular skin checks and schedule ongoing professional checks at the Arta Dermatology office. Early diagnosis is critical to get the effective treatment skin cancers require.

Restoring and maintaining your health and appearance comes down to professional skin care treatment that works in Irvine CA. Schedule your first or next appointment by calling (949) 531-7111.