What is photoageing?
UV radiation causes:
- UVB (burning) — DNA damage in epidermal cells → increased risk of melanoma and skin cancer
- UVA (deep ageing) — penetrates into the dermis → breaks down collagen and elastin, activates melanocytes
Cumulative effect: 90% of visible ageing signs on the face in people over 50 come from photoageing, not chronological ageing.
Signs of photoageing
- Change: Lentigines (age spots) — Mechanism: Melanin build-up — Location: Face, hands, décolletage
- Change: Telangiectasia (broken capillaries) — Mechanism: Vessel dilation — Location: Cheeks, nose, décolletage
- Change: Yellowish skin discolouration — Mechanism: Build-up of elastotic collagen — Location: Entire face
- Change: Thickened, rough texture — Mechanism: Hyperkeratosis — Location: Face, neck
- Change: Deeper wrinkles — Mechanism: UV-driven collagen breakdown — Location: Expression lines and static lines
- Change: Actinic keratosis (AK) — Mechanism: Pre-cancerous condition — Location: Refer to a dermatologist
Treatment methods for photoageing
DYE-VL photorejuvenation (Harmony XL Pro)
Indication: Broken capillaries, redness, sun-induced hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone.
Mechanism: Selective photothermolysis — light is absorbed by haemoglobin (capillaries) and melanin (spots). Coagulation occurs without damaging the epidermis.
Results: Visible reduction in spots and broken capillaries after 2–3 sessions, with a more even skin tone.
Protocol: Every 3–4 weeks, series of 3–5 sessions.
→ DYE-VL photorejuvenation — details
Cosmelan / Dermamelan — hyperpigmentation
Indication: Extensive, widespread sun-induced hyperpigmentation.
Results: 70–90% reduction in hyperpigmentation after completing the full protocol (6 months).
→ Cosmelan — depigmentation protocol
PQ AGE Advanced — hormonal anti-ageing peel
Indication: Photoageing with lax, dull skin in people over 40.
Mechanism: 50% lactic acid + DMAE (lifting) + phytoestrogens.
Results: Firming, brightening, improved texture. Downtime 3–5 days.
→ PQ AGE Advanced — peel for 40+
Profhilo — bioremodelling after UV damage
Indication: Dehydrated, tired-looking skin after years of UV exposure.
Results: Deep revitalisation, improved elasticity and hydration.
→ Profhilo — HA bioremodelling
Ferulac Classic — prevention and maintenance
Indication: Photoageing prevention, maintaining results after intensive treatment.
Results: Brightening, antioxidant protection, inhibits melanogenesis. Zero downtime — suitable year-round.
Combined protocol — maximum results
For advanced photoageing:
- Month: 1 — Treatment: Cosmelan (mask) → Cosmelan 2 cream
- Month: 2–3 — Treatment: DYE-VL photorejuvenation (3 sessions)
- Month: 3–4 — Treatment: Profhilo (2 sessions)
- Month: 4–6 — Treatment: PQ AGE (2 sessions)
- Month: Maintenance — Treatment: Ferulac every 3–4 weeks + SPF 50+ daily
Prevention — the most important step
All treatment results are undone without SPF. After every treatment and every day:
Mineral (not chemical) SPF 50+ — essential.
One treatment plus consistent SPF use means results that last for years.
