Photoageing

Key facts

• Photoageing is skin damage that builds up from years of ultraviolet exposure, distinct from the natural ageing process.
• It causes deep wrinkles, uneven pigmentation (flat brown spots called solar lentigines), rough texture, and reduced elasticity.
• Tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, is the most evidence-backed topical treatment; it speeds cell turnover, stimulates collagen, and gradually fades pigmentation.
• Daily sun protection is the most effective way to prevent further damage while treatment works.

What UV does to the skin over time

UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, the structural proteins in the dermis that keep skin firm and smooth. Repeated UV injury also causes melanocytes to produce irregular clusters of pigment, creating the flat brown spots typical of photoaged skin. Over time the outer layer thickens and roughens, pores appear larger, and small blood vessels can become visible. These changes differ from intrinsic ageing and can start appearing in a person's thirties, or earlier with heavy, unprotected sun exposure.

Topical retinoids

Tretinoin is the most evidence-backed topical treatment for photoageing. It accelerates cell turnover, stimulates new collagen production, and gradually fades pigmentation. It's applied nightly, starting at a low concentration to let the skin adapt, with visible improvement in fine lines and tone typically appearing after several months of consistent use. Retinoid therapy sits within the wider skin care category of treatments.

Lifestyle changes that help

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are the most effective ways to slow further photoageing, whatever treatment is used. Avoiding peak UV hours and reapplying sunscreen through the day both help protect the gains made with retinoid treatment. Antioxidant serums such as vitamin C are sometimes used alongside sunscreen for extra protection against UV-driven damage, though sunscreen itself remains the single most important daily habit.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.