Sun Damage to the Skin
Detect and treat sun damage to the skin with a specialized dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Sun Damage to the Skin
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Thorough examination and treatment of sun-related skin damage using gentle methods like freezing (cryotherapy) or photodynamic therapy (PDT) directly at Derma Medical Clinic
Examinations
Digital full-body skin screening
Dermatoscopy
Procedure
Personal consultation
Systematic skin check-up
Choosing the right treatment
Duration
A few seconds per spot for cryotherapy
Therapy takes approx. 2–3 hours
What is sun damage to the skin?
Sun damage to the skin often develops over many years, usually due to repeated sun exposure during everyday life or holidays. It shows up as rough, scaly or slightly red skin patches that don’t go away, especially on the face, scalp, hands or chest.
These changes are not just a cosmetic issue: They can be early signs of skin cancer and should be examined and treated in time.
This check-up is especially important if you …
- have rough, scaly or hardened patches of skin that don’t heal anymore
- notice thickened areas or small scabs on sun-exposed areas (e.g. face, chest, hands)
- have been exposed to extensive sun or used tanning beds in the past
- have had actinic keratosis or white skin cancer
Even without risk factors, we recommend regular screenings starting at age 35 to detect skin cancer early.
What happens during diagnosis and treatment of sun damage to the skin?
During your skin check-up at Derma Medical Clinic, our specialists use a special magnifying tool (dermatoscope) to examine your skin in great detail. This allows us to see things that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
We also take high-resolution full-body photos so we can document and compare any skin changes over time.
Computer-assisted analysis with artificial intelligence helps evaluate even subtle skin changes reliably.
What if something looks suspicious?
Depending on what we find, we choose the best treatment:
Smaller, clearly defined spots can be removed directly using freezing (cryotherapy): The area is frozen for a few seconds and heals over the next few weeks.
Larger or more widespread sun damage is treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT): A special cream is applied that makes the damaged skin cells sensitive to light. After it soaks in, the area is exposed to light, which destroys abnormal cells without harming the healthy skin around them.
What is the treatment process for sun damage?
Personal consultation and risk assessment
We talk about your skin health, any changes you’ve noticed, past findings, and your personal risk.
Full-body skin examination
Your skin is checked using a special magnifying tool. If needed, we add digital images and an AI-supported analysis.
Treatment planning
Choosing the best method:
Cryotherapy: freezing of small affected areas
Photodynamic therapy (PDT): applying a special cream to larger regions.
Aftercare
Small wounds or scabs may develop after treatment, which usually heal within 2–4 weeks. Sun protection and good skincare are especially important during this time.
Diagnosis and treatment of UV-related skin damage are always carried out by experienced specialists:
- Benjamin Miller, Board-certified dermatologist and phlebologist
- Markus Dendorfer, Board-certified dermatologist and specialized pediatric dermatologist
Both have extensive experience in early detection and treatment of UV-related skin changes.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What to expect at our clinic
State-of-the-art diagnostics
Examinations with a special magnifying tool (dermatoscope), high-resolution full-body images (FotoFinder full-body mapping), and immediate tissue biopsy for suspicious areas if needed.
On-site operating and exam rooms
Suspicious skin changes are removed under local anesthesia in our in-house operating room. Procedures are kept as small as possible with focus on optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Gentle treatments
Our treatments aim to be gentle and preserve your skin’s natural look.
Private recovery area
Comfort and privacy for all surgical procedures and monitoring.
Have you noticed rough, scaly, or non-healing patches on your face, hands, or chest?
Book an appointment now for a skin check-up and possible treatment at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity.
FAQ – Common Questions About Sun Damage to the Skin
How can I detect sun-related skin changes early?
Typical signs include:
- Rough or scaly skin patches
- Small scabs that don’t heal
- Irregular pigmentation
- Redness in sun-exposed areas like the face, chest or hands
What are the treatment options for sun damage?
Depending on how severe the damage is, we may use:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing of small affected spots
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Light-based treatment for larger or widespread damage
What happens during cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy involves freezing the affected skin area for a few seconds. The damaged cells die and healthy skin regenerates over the next weeks.
How does photodynamic therapy (PDT) work?
PDT involves applying a special cream to the skin that makes abnormal cells sensitive to light. After allowing it to absorb, the area is exposed to light, which destroys only the abnormal cells.
When is photodynamic therapy (PDT) recommended?
PDT is especially helpful for:
- Multiple small to moderate signs of sun damage
- Actinic keratosis (pre-cancerous skin condition)
- Widespread damage where surgery isn’t necessary or ideal
Is treatment for sun damage painful?
- Cryotherapy: usually painless, may cause mild burning sensation
- Photodynamic therapy: may cause temporary burning or tightness during light exposure
How long does healing take after cryotherapy or PDT?
- After cryotherapy, skin usually heals within 1–2 weeks
- After PDT, redness, peeling or scabbing may occur, usually heals within about 2–4 weeks
How can I protect my skin from sun damage?
- Use daily sun protection with high SPF (at least SPF 30)
- Wear protective clothing (like a hat or long sleeves)
- Avoid strong sun exposure, especially around midday
