How to Reverse Sun Damage and Restore Healthy, Youthful Skin

Cassie Ogren
May 31
3 min read

Sanctuary Skin | Virginia Beach, VA

If you’ve spent any time outdoors in Virginia Beach, you know how powerful the sun can be. While soaking up sunshine might feel good in the moment, the long-term effects of cumulative sun exposure are no joke. In fact, UV damage is the #1 contributor to premature aging—even more than genetics. Fine lines, pigmentation, loss of elasticity, and rough skin texture are all common signs that your skin has had a little too much sun.

The good news? You can reverse much of this damage with professional treatments and the right homecare regimen at Sanctuary Skin in Virginia Beach. Here’s how:

What Does Sun Damage Look Like?

Sun damage treatment at Sanctuary Skin in Virginia Beach

Sun damage doesn’t always show up as a sunburn. Over time, chronic exposure leads to:

• Uneven skin tone and dark spots (hyperpigmentation)

• Fine lines and deep wrinkles

• Rough or leathery skin texture

• Dilated capillaries and redness

• Loss of collagen and skin elasticity

In Virginia Beach, where outdoor activities, beach days, and sunny weather are part of daily life, it’s no wonder sun damage is so prevalent. Even if you’ve been diligent with SPF recently, years of unprotected exposure may already be showing on your skin.

What are the Professional Treatments that Reverse Sun Damage?

At Sanctuary Skin in Virginia Beach, we specialize in treatments that not only address the visible signs of UV damage, but also help rebuild the skin’s health from within. Some of our most effective methods include:

Chemical Peels

Perfect for lifting stubborn pigment and brightening dull skin. Our customized peels safely exfoliate the top layers of skin to fade discoloration, improve texture, and stimulate cell turnover. Great for anyone dealing with dark spots or uneven tone from sun exposure. At Sanctuary Skin we have many options for chemical peels--some with cumulative effects and no downtime, others with rapid results and some downtime--your master esthetician will help you decide which treatment plan is best for your skin.

Microneedling

As sun damage breaks down collagen, skin can start to sag or feel crepey. Microneedling is a powerful collagen-induction therapy that helps restore elasticity and firmness while improving overall tone and texture.

DMK Enzyme Therapy

DMK Enzymes are our go-to for holistic skin revision. This treatment strengthens the skin’s immune functions, flushes toxins, and restores the skin’s barrier. Ideal for anyone looking for a full-spectrum approach to reversing long-term sun damage and improving overall skin function.

What are Essential Homecare Products for Sun-Damaged Skin?

Professional treatments will get you incredible results—but maintaining and enhancing those results requires the right daily skincare. These are our must-haves for reversing and preventing sun damage:

• Revitosin (Vitamin A): Encourages cellular turnover and collagen production. A key player in fading pigmentation and smoothing texture.

• Direct Delivery Vitamin C: A stabilized form of vitamin C that defends against free radicals while brightening and strengthening the skin.

• Daily SPF 30: Non-negotiable. Daily sun protection is essential to prevent further damage.

• Melanotech Drops: A pigment inhibitor that targets excess melanin production to fade existing discoloration and prevent new spots.

• Super Bright: A stronger corrective for stubborn pigment. This multitasking brightener reduces inflammation and evens skin tone without harsh ingredients.

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Skin

Reversing sun damage takes time, consistency, and expert guidance. At Sanctuary Skin in Virginia Beach, we take a personalized approach to your skin journey—recommending only what your skin truly needs. Whether you’re concerned with pigmentation, texture, or signs of aging, we’re here to help you restore your skin’s health and glow.

Book a facial today to start your customized plan for reversing sun damage.

Sanctuary Skin – Virginia Beach’s trusted destination for results-driven skincare and compassionate care.