Former President Bush recovers from skin damage

Former President George Bush, playing golf on Saturday, is recovering from skin damage caused by long-term sun exposure.

SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (CNN) -- After using a special ointment, former President George Bush is recovering from skin damage caused by long-term sun exposure, and is taking precautions against further problems, according to the Mayo Clinic.

"Mr. Bush is currently in the healing phase, and the prognosis for total recovery is excellent," the clinic said in a statement Saturday.

Bush, who served from 1989 to 1993, is the father of current President George W. Bush.

The clinic said the former president "has undergone topical treatment for sun-induced keratoses, which are focal areas of damage in the top layers of skin."

"These are not skin cancers; they can be effectively treated and eliminated."

Bush applied 5-Fluorouracil salve for two weeks, until July 28. As a normal part of treatment, the keratoses became inflamed and were destroyed, the clinic said.

The clinic said Bush will continue to follow recommendations for protecting himself from the sun, including using sunscreens, hats and sun-protective clothing.