Microdermabration and Sunbun

In early May 2005 I was undergoing microdermabration treatment and mistakenly allowed my facial skin to be exposed to 12:00pm. sun for 4 days.  Thereafter, I was meticulous in my skin protection.  Wide brim hats, sunscreen 60spf, and after sun care.  But I'm afraid the effects are already taking their toll.  I'm having a hard time getting the infomation that explains what the combination of the micros and bad sunburn culminate to.  Are there any treatments available now to help reverse the damage, stave off more damage, and what are my options into avoiding deteriorating skin health and perhaps regain resiliance.  Right now what I notice are fine lines both horiozontal and vertical, the bulk of which are found in my forehead.  Deeper "furrow" lines above my eyes. The vertical lines between my eyes are particulary noticeable.  I'm only 28, and I feel like my skin has aged beyond its years.  I also feel like I can no longer express with my face for fear of further damage.  I live in Southern Ontario just to give you an idea of Sun strength.  Part of my thinks I may be making a bigger deal out of this than is necessary.  I'm looking for honest, thorough, real answers.  Thank-you for your time.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Microdermabrasion has no anatomical effect on the skin.  It does not cause permanent skin damage, either alone or followed by sunburn.  I suspect that the changes you are noticing in your skin were there before, only you weren't looking at them so closely.  I strongly agree with the part of you that "thinks I may be making a bigger deal out of this than is necessary."  It is completely unnecessary for you to fear making facial expressions.  What you need is proper sun protection (SPF 30+, avoidance of direct sun, etc.) and the proper counseling, dermatologic or psychologic, to help you come to realize that you did not ruin your skin.

Good luck.

Dr. Rockoff