How to Reduce Summer Sun Damage
As summer winds down, signs of sun exposure start showing up — fine lines, dark spots, uneven texture, and sometimes more congestion from all the SPF and sweat layering on the skin.
Fall is the right time to start reversing that damage. Why? Because most repair treatments require limited sun exposure, and cooler seasons offer the chance to reset your skin without making things worse. You can start rebuilding from home, but for major change, you’ll want professional support.
What You Can Do At Home
Retinol
If you stopped using retinol over the summer, this is the season to bring it back. Retinol increases cell turnover, which helps fade pigmentation and smooth out fine lines.
Start slowly:
• 1x/week → 2x/week → build from there
• Buffer with moisturizer if needed
• Avoid layering with exfoliating acids until your skin adjusts
Hydration
Sun exposure + heat + travel = dehydration. Dehydrated skin doesn’t heal well.
Use humectants like:
• Hyaluronic acid
• Glycerin-based serums or toners
This alone can improve rough texture, surface redness, or even excess oil production by helping the skin self-regulate.
Exfoliation
You’ll get more even tone faster with consistent exfoliation — but not every day.
• Chemical exfoliation (like mandelic acid) targets hyperpigmentation and congestion.
• Physical exfoliation can help with texture, but overuse leads to dryness and barrier disruption.
Start with mandelic — it’s gentle, effective, and works well for deeper skin tones too.
Vitamin C
UV damage impacts collagen and causes pigmentation. Vitamin C:
• Stimulates collagen production
• Brightens dark marks
• Prevents further pigment development
Use in the morning, after cleansing and before SPF.
Professional Treatments for Deeper Results
Gentle Chemical Peels
If you’re not seeing much change with home care, in-spa exfoliation gives faster, more targeted results.
Lactic Acid Peel
• Stimulates collagen with minimal irritation
• Good for dullness and dry skin
• Best for first-timers or those wanting gentle maintenance
Mandelic Acid Peel
• Fades dark spots + clears congestion
• Ideal for hyperpigmentation and blackheads
• Excellent for deeper skin tones
Glycolic Acid Peel
• Addresses fine lines + clogged pores
• More active than lactic/mandelic
• Best for those used to acids looking for brightness and clarity
Salicylic Acid Peel
• Best for breakout-prone skin
• Targets deep congestion, not sun damage
• Works well for oily skin types familiar with peels
TCA Peels
This one’s stronger — but customizable.
TCA peels are used to treat:
• Hyperpigmentation
• Acne
• Inflammation
• Dullness
• Fine lines
They use trichloroacetic acid, available only through professionals. This is for clients with a specific skin goal and some experience with exfoliating treatments. Downtime varies depending on the strength.
The Strategy
Fading sun damage isn’t a single-product fix. It’s a progressive, layered approach — and fall is the window to get ahead before winter dries your skin out again.
If you’re unsure where to begin, schedule a consultation. You’ll leave with a clear plan, realistic expectations, and the support to get your skin where you want it to be.