Solar elastosis: sun damage to the skin's elasticity
Quick facts
- Definition
- Degeneration of the elastic fibers of the dermis caused by accumulated sun exposure.
- Signs
- Thickened, yellowish, rough skin with deep wrinkles and laxity.
- Who shows it most
- People with a lot of sun exposure over a lifetime and fair skin types.
- Part of the larger picture
- Photoaging.
- Implication
- Lower response to treatments that depend on skin recoil.
Solar elastosis is the degeneration of the elastic fibers of the dermis caused by accumulated sun exposure. The elastin and collagen fibers become disorganized and turn into an amorphous material that neither stretches nor supports. The result is skin that looks older than its age, with a thick texture, a yellowish tone and marked wrinkles.
How do you recognize it?
On assessment, the typical signs are: skin with a "leathery" look, deep furrows in the most exposed areas (forehead, cheekbone, neck), pigmented spots and loss of radiance. In pronounced cases, small yellowish dots called senile comedones appear. Skin aging is classified with scales such as the Glogau scale.
Why does it weigh on HOF?
Photoaging changes the expectations for results. Deep static wrinkles caused by elastosis respond less to toxin and filler than dynamic wrinkles in younger skin. Thinking about filling a static wrinkle without considering skin quality can lead to a result below expectations.
| Situation | Implication |
|---|---|
| Skin with little elastosis | More room for volume treatments and toxin |
| Moderate elastosis | Combining skin care and procedures, at the professional's discretion |
| Pronounced elastosis | More cautious expectations and a frank talk about limits |
What should the patient be told?
Daily sun protection is the safest measure to prevent it from getting worse. People who already have elastosis may benefit from dermatological care and regular follow-up. No indication should promise rejuvenation.
In Harmy
The projection shows the volume effect on the frontal photo. It does not change texture, spots or skin elasticity, and therefore does not represent the effect of skin quality treatments.
Also called: elastotic degeneration.
Frequently asked questions
Can solar elastosis be cured?
The accumulated damage does not fully reverse. Sun protection, dermatological care and some procedures can improve the appearance, and follow-up is done by a qualified professional.
Is solar elastosis the same as a wrinkle?
No. It is the change in skin structure that leads to deep wrinkles and laxity. The wrinkle is the visible sign; elastosis is the change behind it.