Many people believe anti-aging skincare treatments can’t be done during the summer because the risk for sun damage is just too high. According to Dr. Alexandra Theriault of U.S. Dermatology Partners Denver, “The longer we utilize beneficial anti-aging treatments like microneedling and chemical peels, the more we know about the results and healing processes. Many dermatologists used to recommend only waiting for the fall and winter months to receive these cosmetic dermatology treatments, but today, we know it’s safe to receive many anti-aging treatments year-round, including during the warm, sunny summer months. It just means patients have to choose the right treatments and take precautions to protect skin from the sun.” In this blog, Dr. Theriault discusses the best anti-aging treatments for summer and what to expect from these summertime procedures.
Why Choose Anti-Aging Treatments in Summer?
A common skincare myth goes a little something like this – anti-aging treatments are too harsh to heal under the summer sun, so you should only get these treatments in the cooler months. While very intense treatments may be inadvisable during the summer months, there are numerous anti-aging treatment options available during the summer. When it comes to summertime anti-aging treatments, Dr. Theriault says, “As most of my patients know, consistency is essential in achieving and maintaining anti-aging results. They certainly wouldn’t achieve the level of consistency needed if they skip summertime care entirely. Instead, I guide patients to develop a plan that makes sense for warmer months.” Some of the top reasons to continue anti-aging treatments throughout the summer include:
- Consistency – sticking to a consistent routine is the easiest way to maintain anti-aging results. Skipping treatment for the entire summer can make it harder to achieve the desired results during the cooler months.
- Maintain collagen production – collagen production slows as we age, and many anti-aging treatments are designed to boost the production of this natural protein to maintain firm, smooth skin. Without treatment during the summer months, loss of collagen can undo progress.
- Preparing for winter – less-invasive summer skincare treatments keep skin looking its best, so winter treatments can deliver more impactful results.
Top Dermatologist-Recommended Summer Anti-Aging Treatments
Whether you want to refresh your look or continue your anti-aging skincare process, you may want to consider some of the following dermatologist-recommended, safe cosmetic procedures for summer:
Injectables (Botox & Fillers):
Neurotoxin injections (like Botox) and dermal fillers are great anti-aging treatment options for summer. The simple injections require little to no downtime for healing, and they’re not known for causing sun sensitivity, peeling, or hyperpigmentation that are concerns for summer treatments.
Why it’s great for summer:
- No downtime required, and you can resume daily activities after treatment.
- Unlike lasers or strong peels, injectables don’t increase sensitivity to the sun.
- Immediate visual improvements are achieved with Botox, smoothing dynamic wrinkles (think forehead lines and crow’s feet), and dermal fillers restoring volume loss to cheeks, lips, and under-eye hollows. Get a refreshed appearance for those summer vacation photos.
Microneedling:
Sometimes called collagen induction therapy, microneedling is another summertime anti-aging go-to. This treatment uses very small-gauge needles to create microscopic injuries to skin. As the healing process starts, collagen production increases, leading to smoother, firmer skin.
Why it’s great for summer:
- Minimally invasive with little to no downtime required.
- Microneedling doesn’t use heat or light, which makes it safe for darker skin tones.
- Improves texture, scars, and fine lines, so it’s great for anti-aging as well as generally improving skin texture.
- Photosensitivity is minimal, but SPF is still essential post-treatment.
HydraFacials:
Facials designed to resurface skin or penetrate deep into skin’s layers may not be the right option for summer, but HydraFacials offer a gentle treatment to cleanse and exfoliate followed by deep hydration, using the patented vortex technology. This type of facial leaves skin healthy and bright with minimal risk of skin irritation.
Why it’s great for summer:
- Summer sun and drying air conditioning dehydrate skin. HydraFacials infuse moisturizing serums to boost hydration.
- No irritation or peeling, meaning HydraFacials are sun safe.
- Whether you want to address dullness, clogged pores, or early anti-aging, HydraFacials can be tailored to your needs.
Microdermabrasion:
Dermabrasion and other more intense skin resurfacing procedures aren’t the best for summer, but microdermabrasion is a light skin exfoliating procedure that uses a fine crystal mist to remove dead skin cells and improve skin tone and texture. It’s a great way to boost the results of other treatments and reverse skin dullness or texture irregularities.
Why it’s great for summer:
- Instant skin brightening following treatment.
- Non-invasive and low-risk treatment that requires minimal downtime.
- Boosts the benefits of daily skincare routines, making it easier for skin to absorb other products.
- Improves the appearance of fine lines and uneven pigmentation.
Chemical Peels (Mild Formulas):
Strong chemical peel formulas can be too tough on skin during the summer, but a mild chemical peel stimulates skin renewal by encouraging skin cell turnover. While these treatments are gentle, it’s still important to take care with sun protection following the procedure.
Why it’s great for summer:
- Gentle exfoliation reveals radiant skin.
- Clears pores preventing acne breakouts and oiliness that may increase during summer.
- Can fade hyperpigmentation that occurs due to sun exposure.
Why Dermatologists Prefer These Treatments in Summer
Dr. Theriault says, “Everyone is different, and your dermatologist is the best resource you have for creating an anti-aging skincare plan during the summer and all year long. A personalized anti-aging treatment plan for summer should be gentle enough to avoid potential sun damage and other concerns while providing the maximum efficacy to sustain your anti-aging progress. That can be a fine line to walk but treatments like microneedling and mild chemical peels offer skin renewal with low risk for skin health issues.”
Post-Treatment Sun Protection Is a Must
Even with a minimally invasive procedure, post-treatment sun protection is essential. Following cosmetic dermatology treatments, follow these dermatologist sun protection tips:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
- Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.
- Use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UPF clothing for added defense.
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least a few days after any treatment.
Recommended Sunscreens from DermSkincare.com
Dr. Theriault says, “Not all sunscreens are created equal, and many of them can be irritating to post-procedure skin. Work with your dermatologist to find the best option to keep your skin safe from sun damage.” Below, Dr. Theriault outlines top sunscreen recommendations.
EltaMD UV Skin Recovery SPF 50 (Color Correcting Green Tint)
EltaMD UV Skin Recovery SPF 50 offers multiple skin health benefits. It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, but it also includes ingredients that sooth skin redness and irritation. The green tint also neutralizes the appearance skin redness after treatments.
ALASTIN Skincare HydraTint Pro SPF 36
If your summer plans include time at the beach or pool, the ALASTIN Skincare HydraTint Pro SPF 36 should be part of your routine. With a lightweight, antioxidant-rich, water-resistant formula, this mineral sunscreen provides mild skin tone correction, making it a great alternative to applying makeup before your beach day.
MD Skin Essentials Silk Shield SPF 40
The MD Skin Essentials Silk Shield SPF 40 was designed by dermatologists and formulated to create a velvety protective barrier over skin. Oil-free and non-comedogenic, this product is safe for all skin types and gentle enough for post-procedure use.
Conclusion: Summer Skin Can Still Glow with the Right Treatments
According to Dr. Theriault, “Summer doesn’t mean you have to pause your anti-aging cosmetic treatments entirely. Increased sun exposure means you have to be a little more careful and work closely with your dermatologist, but it doesn’t mean you can’t continue to take strides toward a healthy, youthful look. Pair your treatments with a thorough post-procedure skincare routine and high-quality sunscreen, and anti-aging skincare can be a year-round project.”
Schedule a Dermatologic Consultation to Explore Summer Anti-Aging Options
If you’re ready for a summer skin refresh or you just want to explore your cosmetic dermatology options, a local U.S. Dermatology Partners team would love to hear from you. Take a few moments to complete our online scheduling request form to book your dermatologic consultation to explore summer anti-aging options and more.
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