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Photoaging

Meaning

Premature skin aging caused by chronic, cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, distinct from the intrinsic, chronological aging process. Clinically, photoaging manifests as deep wrinkles, leathery texture, mottled pigmentation, telangiectasias, and a loss of skin elasticity. This condition reflects significant structural damage to the dermal extracellular matrix. It is the primary external factor driving skin deterioration.