Photoaging: Fast Facts on Healthier Skin

This patient edition discusses photoaging and the process that leads to older-looking skin. Skin cancer risks are evaluated as well as prevention methods. Steps are provided for planning a skin care routine that takes into account age, skin type, and ethnicity. Alternatives to injectables for skin rejuvenation are reviewed, including laser resurfacing, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and topical agents. Considerations for surgery versus less invasive treatments are outlined. Treatments on the horizon are evaluated as well as the importance of evaluating claims on over-the-counter products. Mostly importantly, patients must remain educated on factors that affect skin aging and products that are available to treat the effects.