/assets/production/practices/c0f00702eca7d8681cb880020e44015e40e978b7/images/2494990.jpg)
Sun Damage services offered in Healdsburg and Santa Rosa, CA
Over time, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light damages the top layer of your skin. The board-certified dermatologists at Redwood Empire Dermatology in Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, and Oakmont, California, use the most advanced technology to target brown spots, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, and reverse signs of sun damage. To learn more, call Redwood Empire Dermatology or schedule an appointment online today.
Sun Damage Q&A
What is sun damage?
Sun damage, or photoaging, is a consequence of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure over time. As UV rays penetrate the deeper layers of your skin, they slow cell turnover and your production of collagen and elastin. These two proteins keep your skin buoyant and youthful. Frequent exposure can also cause dry skin, which accelerates the signs of aging.
How does sun damage happen?
When UV light reaches skin that doesn’t have protection from sunscreen, it can penetrate the epidermis and dermis. The epidermis is the skin’s outermost protective layer, while the dermis sits underneath. Because you can’t see your dermis, UV rays can damage this layer for several years before you begin to see the signs of damage.
There are two main types of UV light that can affect your skin:
UVA light
UVA light penetrates all layers of your skin and can damage the collagen and elastin your body produces. Damage from UVA light will generally lead to skin aging: wrinkles, pigmentation abnormalities, broken blood vessels, volume loss.
UVB light
UVB light primarily affects the surface of your skin. In addition to photoaging, UVB light can cause precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratosis.
Exposing your skin to the sun without sunscreen is the most common cause of sun damage. However, tanning outside or in tanning beds can accelerate the process. Though anybody can develop sun damage, fair-skinned adults are far more prone than those with darker skin tones.
What are the different types of sun damage?
The sun can affect your skin’s elasticity, pigment, and texture. Some of the most common types of sun damage include:
- Sunburns
- Freckles
- Melasma
- Brown spots
- Actinic keratosis (precancerous lesions)
- Solar lentigines (liver spots)
- Hyperpigmentation
- Broken capillaries
- Redness
Your dermatologist can create the best sun damage treatment for you that may include laser therapy, intense-pulsed light (IPL) light therapy, Botox® and fillers, and medical-grade skin care.
Can I prevent sun damage?
Preventing sun damage is easier than treatment. You can preserve your skin health and prevent damage by:
- Wearing sunscreen outside
- Wearing protective clothing in the sun
- Applying moisturizer in the morning and at night
- Practicing good skin care
To learn more about sun damage, call Redwood Empire Dermatology today or schedule an appointment online.
We treat patients for Acne, Botox, and Fillers located in Santa Rosa, Ca. Call us to book your appointment today.
Testimonials
Karen J.
May 23, 2024
My first visit to get some precancerous lesions zapped. She was so wonderful folks! I love that this practice offers quick visits for patients who have something they are worried about on some days of the week-first come first serve. Genius! I love this practice. Nothing like piece of mind when you’ve have all sorts of lesions in the past.
More
Diane E.
Mar 10, 2024
My mom has felt her concerns have been heard and addressed. She feels safe and comfortable w/ all the staff and said her last visit was very pleasant.
More
Patrick C.
Feb 25, 2024
Am very pleased with Dr. Amaturo. She explained as she worked and was very thorough.
More
GARY S.
Feb 21, 2024
I have been with Dr. Amaturo for many years. She treats me like family. She was so tender when my Sweetheart was passing with Alzheimer's . She recently discovered a melanoma on me and has been with me every step of the way keeping me informed about the path we are on to recovery. The entire staff in Healdsburg has always been so kind and friendly.
More
Jinter P.
Jan 08, 2024
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for the exceptional care I received during my recent minor surgery/procedure on the scalp. Dr. Collins and the entire team at Healdsburg Clinic demonstrated a level of expertise and commitment that exceeded my expectations.
From the initial consultation to the completion of the procedure, Dr. Collins demonstrated a remarkable level of expertise and professionalism. His thorough explanation of the procedure and the reassuring manner in which he addressed my concerns put me at ease throughout the process.
The Healdsburg Clinic staff exhibited a high standard of efficiency and courtesy, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment. The seamless coordination between the team members showcased their commitment to patient care.
More
Lee M.
Dec 27, 2023
Great staff and Doctor !
More
Mary E.
Aug 10, 2023
Julie Plante is amazing. I had had an odd bump above my lip. I had asked my primary care physician at the time and other dermatologists about it. The response was always that it was nothing. Dr. Plante took one look & diagnosed it as a basil cell cancer. I am so greatful to her. I have not seen anyone else for my skin since. She always takes any of my questions seriously. Besides being the best in the business, she is a lovely person.
More
Pamela B.
Feb 28, 2023
Fantastic! I can't imagine going to another dermatologist other than Dr. Westrom
More
Beverly S.
Nov 18, 2022
was very pleased with visit and Christen's bedside manner so to speak. will ask for her for future visits when I need to come. thank you
More
Hugh H.
Nov 14, 2022
I had a sharp pain and a small swollen area on my left forearm just under my skin near the elbow. I had been to Providence Medical Center, and after several months of waiting, they dismissed my complaints without close examination, because (they said) an X-Ray was negative. On November 8 I went to Redwood Dermatology for this problem. I had hoped to see Dr. Dale Westrom whom I highly respect and have been seeing for years for skin problems. He was on vacation, so I saw Christen Thompson, DCNP. She was very kind and attentive, and immediately closely examined the area. She found and removed a small splinter which she said could cause a cyst around it. We weren't sure if the problem was solved, but she encouraged me to return at any time. As of this writing, November 14, the spot is still somewhat painful, but I am confident that if I need to return to Redwood Dermatology I will be treated compassionately and receive first-rate care. I heartily recommend anyone with dermatology issues to go to Redwood Dermatology. Over the years, they have removed or frozen several skin cancers and growths, and I would not consider going anywhere else. Dr. Wenstrom's walk-in clinic is particularly wonderful, as he is an excellent diagnostician, and can quickly treat most common skin conditions on the spot.
More
Bill F.
Aug 02, 2022
Let’s see. My wife was one of dr westrom’s first patients when he started his practice in Santa Rosa. She recently went back to him for a new issue after of course a number of years since first visit. Her expierence from the first time to now was consistently very good. I saw him for the first time august 2022. Essence of visit: great listener, excellent communicator, reassuring, developed a realistic plan of action after answering all my questions and explaining what he wanted me to do and why.
More
David Q.
Jul 23, 2022
Very prompt service and high quality care.
More
Nina S.
Jul 20, 2022
Christen cares for all of my family members, which includes two teenagers. She is great at communicating treatment options and has a wonderful rapport with patients.
More
Marion F.
Jul 06, 2022
Very efficiently run office. Dr Westrom is also efficient, friendly..just right !
More
Barbara W.
Jun 28, 2022
Genius! The walk in Clinic is the best idea ever! Very efficient and a GREAT experience. Very professional team. Dr. Westrom is awesome. Highly recommend.
More
Gail E.
Jun 25, 2022
Surgical techniques are very good. Appointments are very brief.
More
William D.
Jun 19, 2022
Very good experience
More
Lucy W.
Jun 19, 2022
I had a few red spots. Apparently, it was nothing.
More
Claire C.
Jun 19, 2022
I had a squamous cell Ca removed from my scalp. It was a lengthy Moes(?) procedure.
He made sure I was as comfortable as possible during the surgery, which I appreciated.
More
Bradley B.
Jun 18, 2022
Great service
More
Burton S.
Jun 18, 2022
On time, short and sweet, to the point.
More
Michael H.
Jun 17, 2022
I have been one of Dr. Julie Plante's patients since the beginning of her practice. I have been a patient at Redwood Empire Dermatology for almost twenty years. She is one of the best in her field of expertise. Not only holding up to the high standards of the State of California, and our National Standards. She has her own standards of giving the best quality of care available to her, and her medical team. Her quality of care does not end there. It continues with trust, truthful knowledge, and the best care you could ask for. Thank you Dr. Plante for all the care you have given me over these years. I highly recommend Dr. Plante for all your Dermatological needs.
More
Deborah E.
Jun 16, 2022
Always on time and easy to get an appointment. Great care!
More
George S.
Jun 16, 2022
Very professional. Had suggestions regarding rashes in addition to screening.
More
Joanna A.
Jun 16, 2022
Dr. Plante is amazing.
More
Michael B.
Jun 16, 2022
Dr. Amaturo takes the time to talk to you and explain everything. Very knowledgeable.
More
Lorel K.
Jun 16, 2022
The team at Dr. Westrom’s office was trying to diagnose a rash around my mouth and at the same time working around a Covid-19 mask. The ointment was helpful but it was my homemade lip balm that keeps my lips and corners of mouth moistened. Thank you!
More
Heidi B.
Jun 16, 2022
Efficient and positive
More
Kathryn B.
Jun 15, 2022
Compassionate, knowledgeable, and skill at the top of his specialty.
More
Rex W.
Jun 15, 2022
I like Mrs. Thompsons care.... very professional!
More
Gene H.
Jun 15, 2022
Doctor and staff very pleasant and efficient.Very short wait to be seen for your appointment Doctor listens to any concerns you may have .
More
Jeanne M.
Jun 14, 2022
Dr. Westrom is very professional , knowledgeable, and compassionate.
In addition to completing my annual overall skin check, he kindly and quickly removed questionable moles on my face, and calluses on my feet. He answered every question I posed. I highly recommend Dr. Westrom for dermatological concerns.
More
Bernita M.
Jun 14, 2022
Efficient, effective, painless , friendly
More
Jacquey P.
Jun 14, 2022
They are always professional and knowledgable.
More
Ann D.
Jun 14, 2022
Dr. Plante was the third dermatologist i saw for my rash. She was the first one who helped me. She listened to me, got a full history and sent in two samples to be biopsied. I finally got relief from the pain and itching.
More
Rosemary C.
Jun 14, 2022
Saw Dr. Westrom and he did a biopsy of a spot on my back.
More
Alan K.
Jun 14, 2022
Dale is a great dermatologist, & very friendly as well!
More
Ed C.
Jun 13, 2022
First rate professional service every time
More
Dianne R.
Jun 13, 2022
Always excellent!!!! Thank you!!!
More
Greg A.
Jun 13, 2022
Dr. Westrom is the best Dermatologist on the West Coast and his staff is amazing!!
Greg Allison
More
Mark S.
Jun 13, 2022
An uneventful skin check.
More
Marsha G.
Jun 13, 2022
Thank you Dr Plante for your tender care!
More
Carolyn M.
Jun 13, 2022
Regular examination.
More
Susan V.
Jun 13, 2022
Dr. Plante has always taken the time to answer my questions, she is friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I am grateful to have her as my primary dermatologist.
More
Ada B.
Jun 13, 2022
It was a very positive experience. Dr. Westrom and his staff are professional and caring in their treatment of patients. I left the office with the feeling that I was in good hands. Thanks to all.
More
Laurie P.
Jun 13, 2022
Dr Plante always does a thorough exam, listens to any concerns I have and answers any questions I might have.
More
Shannah A.
Jun 13, 2022
Quick and resolved my issue.
More
Chris W.
Jun 13, 2022
She helped me with a follow up on an allergy patch test and a couple of other issues. Great bedside manner, the whole office staff was very nice.
More
Edward F.
Jun 13, 2022
Professional, friendly & efficient service.
More
Michael C.
Jun 13, 2022
I had a very good experience.
More
Susan Jane D.
Jun 13, 2022
I have been being treated for some skin lesions on my legs and a planters wart on my foot for a number of years and Dr Collins suggestions have finally helped show progress in eliminating these conditions! Also, I had been referred to Dr.s in this practice for a problem on my eyelid. The 1st person was not taking new parients, the 2nd one had moved and I ended up with Dr Collins! What good luck. I was not anxious to have a biopsy on my eyelid and he was not anxious to do one, so he prescribed an over the counter medication to treat the problem and after a few months it seems to have disappeared. I appreciated not rushing into surgery as the opthamologist had suggested.
More
Jon S.
Jun 13, 2022
very good
More
Dobie D.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr. Plante was on time, thorough and efficient. I'm pleased to have her as my dermotologist.
More
Jeannette B.
Jun 12, 2022
I am pleased with the very friendly and helpful staff and Dr. Westrom did the procedure quickly with good results.
More
SUSAN H.
Jun 12, 2022
I had a problem with itching. Went to see Dr. Plante. She listened to my problem, did some research, had me try some skin and oral medication for the itching. After a few weeks I
The itching got better. I still use the skin lotion once in awhile, but the itching has almost allgone. She is not only a good dermatologist, she's a nice person and really cares about her patients. Her staff is nice too.
More
Matt L.
Jun 12, 2022
All good, no long wait, excellent professional care.
More
JEANNETTE S.
Jun 12, 2022
I love Dr. Plante! From the moment I first saw her several years ago, she visually identified a rare type of lesion on my back and biopsied it to UCSF and it was an accurate diagnosis. I will always be in care as I trust her completely! It is rate to find such a pleasant physician that cares as much as she does for her patients! I am so very blessed by her! ❤️
More
Randy K.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr Westrom provides that perfect balance of being professional and friendly.
Easy to make appointments, friendly staff. Usually no waiting - - on time.
More
Carl F.
Jun 12, 2022
Great Experience!
More
Roumen M.
Jun 12, 2022
Both with my wife we visited Dr. D. Westrom and we are very satisfied with the service we received.
Thank you,
R. Mladjov
More
Linda H.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr. Plante is always thorough when completing my annual full body skin check. I trust that she misses nothing!
More
Misti M.
Jun 12, 2022
Friendly staff. Pleasant experience.
More
Claudia P.
Jun 12, 2022
I am a person who wants to understand and learn about my health. Dr. Plante is fantastic regarding explaining just what's happening.
More
Maria S.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr. Plante's extensive and practical medical knowledge combined with her sensitive interpersonal skills makes her the best dermatologist ever!!!
More
Tom T.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr. Westrom and staff have cared well in managing my father’s bullous pemphigoid.
More
Arlyne S.
Jun 12, 2022
Thanks to Dr Plante and the phone staff I was able to get my radk under control quickly.
More
Tom & Nancy R.
Jun 12, 2022
Great doctor and staff. Punctual and friendly. Our only negative though, I believe we were both told that we would be notified when due for next screening. We are now overdue and would like to come in.
More
Geoffrey F.
Jun 12, 2022
Very professional. Always informed and good experience
More
Carole K.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr Plante is always professional yet extremely caring and attentive to your needs.
Her acuteness in zeroing in on issue is extraordinary!
She is kind and compassionate and calm. She puts the patient at ease even when it is a difficult procedure or surgery. She is reassuring and I always feel uplifted after seeing her.
We love her!
More
Lee M.
Jun 12, 2022
Good work!
More
Estelle R.
Jun 12, 2022
Prompt, straightforward, nice guy
More
Kathy D.
Jun 12, 2022
Dr. Plante is not only professional and knowledgeable, but she is a true patient advocate who has a gentle bedside manner that includes kindness, collaboration, and a sense that she genuinely cares for her patients. My teenage son had seen several dermatologists before we found Dr. Plante and she is truly the best. A gem in her profession.
More
Frank L.
Jun 12, 2022
Answered questions, resolved issues
More
Claudine S.
Jun 12, 2022
thorough and quick
More
Richard A.
Jun 12, 2022
Could not have been better
More
Soraya S.
Jun 12, 2022
I love Dr.Plante. The best in the area. Receptionist does not March Dr.Plante personality of being nice, caring, and considerate! I was not happy with the way the receptionist interacted with us!
More
John And Marlene And Kilroy M.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr. Collins is very thorough on what we came to see him for which is a severe itching on my wife Marlene for six or seven weeks he’s determined to get to the bottom of it and we appreciate his determination I know we will reach their destinations soon
More
Joann S.
Jun 11, 2022
Wonderful! All of the staff and Dr. Westrom were pleasant, kind, and efficient. Dr. Westrom's medical expertise was my main reason for choosing him; but, having everyone express caring is indeed a plus.
More
Robert M.
Jun 11, 2022
Exam was completed quickly and effectively. Was able to see areas of skin surface that cannot be seen alone.
More
Mark F.
Jun 11, 2022
Great care provided. Friendly, encouraging staff.
More
James K.
Jun 11, 2022
Always takes care of my many skin problems. Very through in hi examination.
Thank you Dr. Westrom.
More
Enola B.
Jun 11, 2022
My mother was treated gently as possible and explained to her. She is 95 years old and does not always understand why she needs certain treatment done. They gave her a little hospital blanket to keep her warm while they treated her arm.
More
Randall R.
Jun 11, 2022
Always a pleasure to visit with Dr.. Amaturo
More
Robert T.
Jun 11, 2022
I had minor skin problems that needed care. Dr Westrom took care of them in a very professional and friendly manner.
More
Ann R.
Jun 11, 2022
Our visits are consistently excellent. Mrs. Thompson is both knowledgeable and personable. The practice is run efficiently and we are never kept waiting long before being seen.
More
Rhonda S.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr. Plante Was as always professional kind thorough and wonderful. She saw me the same day I am so thankful
More
Amy R.
Jun 11, 2022
Got me in right away and addressed all my concerns. Dr Plante was very knowledgeable.
More
Judith S.
Jun 11, 2022
Excellent care! Thanks!
More
Marjorie S.
Jun 11, 2022
The Moh's surgery went well with successful results. The scar has continued to improve and is minimal.
More
Lorry C.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr. Amaturo always listens to my concerns. I like it when the doctor doesn’t have to be typing notes while you are trying to tell them what the issue is. She is caring and has a great bedside manner.
Lorry C.
More
Melissa H.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr. Plante is a kind, compassionate doctot who knows her stuff. I feel safe in her hands. She is also willing to speak on the phone if I have a question. She is an excellent doctor!
More
Rick M.
Jun 11, 2022
the best
More
Michael H.
Jun 11, 2022
Susan is a thoughtful caring professional who listens to her patients and is concerned about the final appearances of any procedures. I have been going to her for 30 years! and intend to continue!
More
Jane L.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr. Plante was referred to me from friends and my primary physician. On my first visit I was delighted to find a staff that was efficient and kind. Then I met her! I can understand why her staff is the way they are, because she is incredible!
She did not rush, she looked over lab results I brought in and answered all questions thoroughly. Preformed a biopsy, ordered labs and a prescription taking the time to find a lower cost one. Dr. Plante called immediately receiving lab results.
From the start I am thankful I found this caring doctor. Thank you Dr. Plante and staff.
More
Annmarie H.
Jun 11, 2022
Christen Thompson is caring and professional. She is punctual with scheduled appointment times which I appreciate. Most importantly, she is an attentive listener and explains her care in terms I understand. I am very happy to be under her care!
More
Diana E.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr Westrom vaccinated me earlier with the JnJ and I thought, what a kind individual, and I had the need for a Dermatologist as mine left her practice so when I needed checking I thought of Doctor W, made an appointment and at the end of the appointment, ask if he’d take me on as a patient - he said yes, so I’m here to stay with him!!!
More
Douglas W.
Jun 11, 2022
Dr Julie Plante and staff are the best Dermatology team in Sonoma County.
More
Laura D.
Jun 11, 2022
Everyone was very kind and professional. I would recommend you
More
Linda L.
Jun 11, 2022
Excellent office staff communication, available, returns calls, respectful.
More
SANDY & TOM G.
Jun 11, 2022
DR. AMATURO IS VERY THOROUGH AND CARFUL AND CARING
More
Victoria P.
Jun 11, 2022
Easy, quick, done!
More
Steven P.
Jun 11, 2022
Fast, professional and accurate! So happy to have such great help when needed.
More
Rhonda B.
Jun 11, 2022
Excellent
More
James K.
Jun 10, 2022
The staff is friendly, attentive and professional. The atmosphere feels muted though, possibly due to doctor's reserved personality.
More