Sun damage and your skin
When sunlight hits your skin, it damages healthy cells. Without sun protection, this damage can build up. In time, you see signs of sun damage like freckles, age spots, and wrinkles. Some people develop precancerous skin growths, skin cancer, or both.
UV photography allows us to see sun damage that you cannot see with the naked eye. Take a look at these UV photos, which show sun damage in people of various ages.
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Find out what you can do to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
People who have light skin tones and seldom protect their skin from the sun can develop precancerous skin growths called actinic keratoses (AKs). Learn why it’s so important to see a board-certified dermatologist if you have these growths.
As sun damage builds up in the skin, some people develop skin cancer. This page shows you what the different types of skin cancer can look like.
While you cannot undo years of sun damage, treatment can even out your skin tone, smooth wrinkles, and more. See what’s possible.