Sun Damage and Skin Cancer Prevention Clinic

We are excited to introduce our new dermatologist-led clinic dedicated to addressing sun-damaged skin and skin cancer prevention. This clinic offers a holistic approach to managing sun damage, focusing on prevention, treatment, and cosmetic enhancement.

Daily Practices for Skin Cancer Prevention

• Sun Protection: Daily sun protection is paramount in preventing skin cancer. This includes the regular use of sunscreen with SPF50, ensuring the correct amount is applied and reapplied every two hours. Seeking shade and wearing UV protective clothing, hats, and rashies that shield the skin from harmful UV rays.
• Oral Niacinamide: Incorporating oral niacinamide supplements (500mg once or twice daily) into your daily routine has been shown to reduce the risk of developing skin cancers.
• Topical Antioxidants: Daily application of topical antioxidants, such as vitamin C and resveratrol, helps combat UV-induced damage and oxidative stress on the skin.
• Topical Niacinamide: Look for skincare products containing niacinamide, which can help improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation associated with sun damage.
• Dietary Antioxidants: Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, may provide additional protection against UV-induced damage.

In-Clinic Procedures for Skin Cancer Prevention

• Yearly Skin Checks: Annual skin checks are important for early detection and treatment of skin cancers 
• Treatment of Precancerous Lesions: Precancerous solar keratosis can be treated using various methods such as chemotherapy cream, photodynamic therapy, or laser resurfacing to prevent their progression into skin cancer.
• Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing: A study conducted at Harvard Medical School over 17 years has demonstrated the significant benefits of regular non-ablative laser resurfacing in reducing the risk of developing keratinocyte carcinomas, including basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. Researchers observed that patients who underwent regular non-ablative laser resurfacing treatments experienced a 50% reduction in subsequent skin cancers. This finding underscores the effectiveness of non-ablative laser resurfacing as a preventive measure against keratinocyte carcinomas, highlighting its potential as a valuable tool in skin cancer prevention strategies. 

Improving the Appearance of Sun-Damaged Skin

Depending on the type and severity of sun damage, various treatments can improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin. Options include vascular laser for redness, pigment laser for pigmentation irregularities, and ablative or non-ablative resurfacing lasers or RF treatments to improve skin texture. Collagen-stimulating injectables can also help with volume loss and skin laxity, providing comprehensive rejuvenation for sun-damaged skin.

Please reach out to us if you are interested in our holistic Sun Damage Clinic at Northside Dermatology and take your first step toward achieving long-term skin health. We are here to help you address your skin concerns and achieve the radiant, healthy skin. Call us 03 8582 8688 to book your appointment today!