Photoaging
Also known as: Sun Damage, Photodamage, Premature Ageing
Description
Photoaging refers to premature skin ageing caused by chronic ultraviolet radiation exposure. It is distinct from intrinsic (chronological) ageing and manifests as coarse wrinkles, dyspigmentation, loss of elasticity, and a rough texture. It is the primary extrinsic cause of visible skin ageing and a significant risk factor for skin cancers.
Symptoms
- Fine and coarse wrinkles
- Uneven pigmentation and lentigines (age spots)
- Loss of skin elasticity and firmness
- Rough, leathery skin texture
- Telangiectasia
- Actinic keratoses (pre-malignant lesions)
Causes & Triggers
- Chronic UVA and UVB exposure
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation
- Collagen and elastin degradation (MMP activation)
- DNA damage and impaired repair mechanisms
- Smoking as an accelerating co-factor
Severity Classification
Treatment Ladder
- 1 Foundational: Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50+ and sun avoidance
- 2 Mild: Topical retinoids (retinol → tretinoin) + antioxidants (vitamin C, E)
- 3 Moderate: Chemical peels (glycolic acid) + prescription retinoids
- 4 Moderate–Severe: Laser resurfacing, microneedling, IPL
- 5 Actinic keratoses: Cryotherapy, topical 5-FU, or photodynamic therapy
Relevant Compounds
Alpha Arbutin
Reduces age spots and sun-induced pigmentation
Alpha arbutin is a biosynthetic glycosylated hydroquinone derivative that inhibits melanin productio…
Coenzyme Q10
Mitochondrial antioxidant — reduces oxidative damage
Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a naturally occurring lipid-soluble benzoquinone that is present in vir…
Glycolic Acid
AHA — exfoliation and collagen stimulation
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid with the greatest bioavailability due to its low mo…
Green Tea Extract
Polyphenol antioxidant — UV damage protection
Green tea extract is derived from the leaves of Camellia sinensis. It is rich in polyphenols called …
Hyaluronic Acid
Hydration and plumping of fine lines
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found abundantly in the dermis and epider…
Kojic Acid
Depigmenting agent for age spots
Kojic acid is a natural metabolite produced by several species of fungi (Aspergillus, Penicillium). …
Niacinamide
Improves fine lines, pigmentation, and barrier function
Niacinamide is the physiologically active amide form of vitamin B3. It is a versatile, well-tolerate…
Retinol
OTC retinoid for milder anti-ageing regimens
Retinol is an over-the-counter retinoid and a precursor to retinoic acid (tretinoin). It must be con…
Tretinoin
Gold standard — stimulates collagen, normalises cell turnover
Tretinoin is a first-generation retinoid derived from vitamin A. It is one of the most extensively s…
Vitamin C
Antioxidant photoprotection and collagen stimulation
Vitamin C is a potent water-soluble antioxidant essential for collagen synthesis. In topical skincar…
Vitamin E
Antioxidant — photoprotection and membrane stabilisation
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin and a key component of the skin's natural antioxidant…
Recommended Drugs
Suggested Cosmetics
Lifestyle Tips
- Sunscreen is non-negotiable — apply 2 mg/cm² to face, reapply every 2 hours
- Wear wide-brimmed hats and seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM–4 PM)
- Start retinoid therapy early — prevention is easier than reversal
- Antioxidant serums (vitamin C) in the morning, retinoids at night
- Quit smoking — it independently accelerates skin ageing
When to Refer
- Suspicious actinic keratoses or lesions needing biopsy
- Desire for procedural interventions (laser, peels, injectables)
- Use of high-strength prescription retinoids requiring monitoring