Does sun-damaged skin cause wrinkles?

Ultraviolet light reaches skin cells and can alter collagen, elastin and the systems that repair them. Over time, skin may become less firm, less even in texture and more lined, especially on the face, neck, chest and backs of the hands. Wrinkles are a very common presentation of Sun-Damaged Skin, but lines can also reflect natural ageing, repeated facial expressions, smoking or dry skin. Their presence alone does not identify one cause.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen as directed, seek shade, wear protective clothing and avoid deliberate tanning. A dermatologist can assess the depth and pattern of your lines and discuss options such as topical retinoids, resurfacing procedures or other treatments. Results and suitability depend on your skin type, the area treated and your medical history. Introduce active products gradually and stop if marked irritation develops.

Arrange an appointment if a rough or scaly area changes, bleeds, forms a sore that does not heal, or develops a new irregular colour or border. Seek care sooner for rapid change, persistent tenderness or an area that repeatedly crusts. These features need examination because sun-damaged skin can include conditions requiring treatment; wrinkles by themselves are not an emergency.

Ask which features suggest photoaging, whether a rough area needs examination, which sunscreen and skincare ingredients suit you, and whether a proposed procedure fits your skin tone and pattern of lines.