What should you know about sun damaged wrinkled skin?

Ultraviolet light can affect the dermis, where collagen and elastin support firmness and resilience. Over time, skin may show etched lines, creases, dryness, roughness and uneven colour. Areas with frequent exposure, such as the face, chest, neck, forearms and hands, may be more noticeable. Facial movement and natural ageing can add to the pattern, so an assessment considers the whole picture rather than appearance alone.

Apply sunscreen according to its directions and reapply when needed; combine it with shade, a hat and sun-protective clothing. Keep cleansing gentle and moisturise regularly. A clinician may consider topical medicines or procedures such as resurfacing, depending on the wrinkle pattern, skin sensitivity, pigment risk and your recovery preferences. Do not pick peeling or irritated skin after sun exposure.

Seek a skin review if a rough patch, sore, crust or mark persists, bleeds, changes shape or colour, or differs from surrounding skin. Get prompt advice for a rapidly changing lesion. Wrinkles commonly accompany photoaging, but a concerning lesion requires examination rather than being explained by sun damage alone.

Could this pattern be photoaging or another skin condition? Which home products are suitable for my sensitivity? What treatment choices address texture, lines or pigment, and what recovery should I plan for?