The sun damage that shows up on faces, chests, and hands in the form of wrinkles and age spots is often the result of long ago sun exposure. You may still be paying for innocent sunbathing sessions as a carefree teenager many years later. The good news is that it is possible to halt further sun damage (by being diligent about wearing sunblock) and begin reversing the sun damage you've already experienced. Here are 3 ways to reverse sun damage:

Try a Series of Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a great way to gently yet effectively exfoliate and slough away surface layers of skin, revealing fresher, younger skin underneath. Chemical peels vary in intensity, from gentle lactic acid or fruit enzyme peels that require no down time, to deeper peels that will require you to stay inside for a few days afterward due to skin shedding temporarily as well as sun sensitivity.

For dark age spots and other signs of sun damage, most dermatologists recommend a series of peels spaced out over a few months to get the best results. You should notice healthier, more glowing skin after even just the first peel.

Ask Your Dermatologist for a Prescription

Anti-aging serums and creams from the drug store can't compare to the potency of prescription medication. To undo real sun damage, you need to call in the big guns and get a prescription from your doctor containing a retinoid or other powerful chemical exfoliant. This will help speed up the turnover of your old, damaged skin cells, fade age spots, lines and wrinkles, and even clear up old acne scars.

Just remember to be extra vigilant about wearing a full-spectrum sunblock and avoiding excessive sun exposure while using prescription serums and creams, as they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. You don't want to reverse sun damage only to immediately create more, after all.

Try Out Lasers

With laser therapy, intense beams of light target and kill off damaged skin cells, causing them to flake and fall off and revealing much younger and more even skin. Always seek out a qualified dermatologist for laser therapy, rather than going to a spa, as there is a risk of burning or otherwise damaging your skin if the technician doesn't fully know what they are doing.

By following these steps, you will soon begin to see younger and healthier looking skin. Visit a dermatology office for more information.