Whether you skipped sunscreen on a cloudy day or underestimated the time you'd be outside, sun damage can occur. And while you might feel like the damage is done, here’s the truth:
It’s not too late to start protecting your skin — and even undoing some of the harm.
The sun is one of the main contributors to premature aging and skin issues, but the good news is that your skin is incredibly resilient. With the correct care from Dr. Chinyere Orafu and our team of experts at the Ohio Laser & Wellness Center and a few smart habits, you can still support your skin’s health and glow at any age.
Let’s dive in.
Even if your beach days are behind you or you already show signs of sun damage (dark spots, wrinkles, or rough texture), sun protection is always worth prioritizing. Here’s why:
In short: Your skin isn’t doomed, and it’s never too late to start giving it the protection it needs and deserves.
If there’s one product we tell everyone to use, it’s sunscreen. Daily. Year-round. No exceptions.
Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it every morning, especially to your face, neck, chest, and hands. Reapply every two hours if you’re outside, and don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, hairline, and the tops of your feet.
Try a tinted sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF built in to accomplish this with one product.
Sun exposure depletes your skin’s moisture and collagen, leaving it dull and uneven. So, it’s no surprise that hydration is key, both in and outside.
Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and use a moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to repair the skin barrier.
We also recommend adding an antioxidant serum (like vitamin C) to help brighten and fight free radicals caused by UV damage.
These small changes go a long way in helping your skin bounce back.
If you already see the effects of too much sun (brown spots, fine lines, or rough patches), don’t worry — there are non-invasive treatments that can help.
Chemical peels exfoliate and encourage new, healthy skin to come to the surface. Laser treatments target pigment and stimulate collagen and elastin to get smoother, more even skin.
Microneedling helps with texture, scarring, and tone by boosting your body’s natural healing process.
We also offer a wide range of professional skin care products to cleanse, correct, hydrate, protect, and brighten your skin.
You’re never alone on your skin care journey — we help you choose the best treatment based on your skin’s condition and your goals.
While sunscreen is essential, clothing and accessories offer an extra layer of protection. Choose:
And if you’re going to be out in the sun for long periods, seek shade whenever possible, especially between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun is at its strongest.
If you’ve had years of sun exposure, it’s also critical to keep an eye on your skin. Look out for:
Schedule regular skin checks with your primary care provider, especially if you’ve had sunburns in the past. Early detection is a priority when it comes to skin cancer.
It’s easy to think the damage is done and throw in the towel, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Your skin responds well to care, even later in life. By making sun protection a daily habit and exploring treatment options for existing damage, you can maintain a radiant, youthful complexion and help prevent future problems.
So go ahead and start today. Your skin will thank you tomorrow, next month, and in years from now. And remember, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Book your consultation online or over the phone at our Dover or Canton, Ohio, office today.
