Solar Elastosis

Exposure to the sun is beneficial to health as sunlight helps our body synthesize vitamin D, a much-required vitamin for healthy bone growth. However, it can turn harmful if the skin is exposed for too long. The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and has a number of vital functions.

These functions include protecting the internal layers and organs from harmful pathogens, regulating the body temperature, and acting as a barrier to prevent the evaporation of essential nutrients. It also plays a major role in the absorption of sunlight, oxygen, nitrogen, etc., from the atmosphere.

It is unimaginable what humans, or for that matter even animals, do without this outer protective cover. However there is one drawback. Being amongst the most exposed organs in the body, the skin is susceptible to a number of problems and disorders. One such disorder is skin elastosis, which is caused due to overexposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun.

As mentioned earlier, skin elastosis is a result of sun damage. This problem can be defined as the degeneration of subdermal elastic tissue by prolonged sun exposure, causing wrinkling of the skin and melanoma. It is also known as actinic elastosis. Normally, the skin constitutes collagen and elastin, which give it elasticity and firmness.

In elastosis, the collagen layer gets destroyed, and there is overaccumulation of elastin. Under normal circumstances, the skin undergoes degeneration and the old cells are replaced with the new ones. The connective fibers get damaged and the person looks older than his age.

Too much sun can slowly destroy the collagen layer in the dermis, exposing the elastin. This can increase the unnatural development of the elastic fibers, but this makes the skin lose its firmness. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can trigger the process of degeneration and can lead to a condition called photoaging.

Individuals whose skin is too sensitive and who suffer from sunburn on a regular basis are more prone to this disorder. The symptoms of this condition are the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. Some individuals may also experience dry skin, which may be rough and leathery to feel.

Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent the risk of skin cancer. There are a number of treatment methods which can deal with symptoms of photoaging. You can consult a dermatologist who will review your condition and recommend the right treatment.

Normally, the doctor may opt for microdermabrasion and carbon dioxide layer resurfacing to treat this disorder. Creams for topical application, like imiquimod, tacrolimus ointment, and topical estrogen therapy are prescribed, that help regain the firmness of the skin.

The results may vary according to the complaint of the individual, and the severity of the condition. However, the best treatment is to follow a balanced diet plan, drink plenty of water and fluids, and avoid maximum exposure to the sun whenever possible.

Solar elastosis can be prevented if too much exposure to the sun is avoided. Whenever you step into the sun, it is advisable to use liberal amounts of sunscreen and wear protective clothing. Following a proper skin care regimen can also help in keeping skin problems at bay.