Have you been told that you shouldn’t schedule a chemical peel or laser skin care in the summer due to the potential for sun damage after your treatment? While this is a common belief, it’s not actually rooted in facts. The truth is that you can safely schedule any skin treatment during the summer, but it is important to be fully aware of your aftercare needs, including adequate sun protection.
If you are considering scheduling cosmetic procedures in the summer months, Maloney Plastic Surgery can help you plan for safe and successful treatment. As a leading plastic surgery center and medi-spa in Tucson, we prioritize the safety of our patients and emphasize patient education throughout every consultation. Take a closer look at what you need to know about scheduling skincare treatments this summer and get to know the truth behind some common summer skincare myths.
Myth: You can’t schedule major skin treatments in the summer
Because treatments like chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing, and RF skin tightening remove the skin’s protective barrier, they do make the skin temporarily more vulnerable to sun damage. Sun exposure can slow the healing process, increase inflammation, and mitigate the effects of your treatment. However, it is possible to undergo treatment safely with the right precautions.
Reality: Treatments are safe year-round, but summer does require some extra precautions
After any skincare procedure, you should be diligent about applying sunscreen, even when you are spending time indoors. When you go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses to get as much added sun protection as possible. You should also limit your time outside until your skin has had a chance to heal.
When you undergo any cosmetic procedure at Maloney Plastic Surgery, we will walk you through what to expect during the recovery process, as well as the steps you should take to protect your skin and prevent sun damage.
Myth: Cosmetic procedures can reduce all types of sun damage
Another common misconception about summer skincare is that all types of sun damage are reversible. Unfortunately, that is simply not the case. Cosmetic issues like dark spots, uneven skin tone, and wrinkles can be reduced or reversed with certain skincare treatments. However, DNA damage from UV radiation cannot be reversed, so you may still be at risk for skin cancer and other signs of sun-damaged skin in the future.
Reality: No treatment can completely reverse sun damage
Because no treatment can fully reverse the effects of long-term sun exposure, establishing a sun-safe daily skincare routine is essential. You should apply sunscreen every single day, not just on days when you plan to spend lots of time outside or when the sun is out. UV radiation is present even when it’s cloudy outside.
To protect and repair your skin this summer and keep your skin looking great in any season, visit Maloney Plastic Surgery for a customized skincare routine and treatment plan. Call us today for a consultation.
