Most of us already realize that we need to take special care of our skin during the summer months. UV rays from the sun can be extremely damaging, and not only are we at much greater risk of experiencing Sunburn, but the trauma caused by exposure to the sun’s rays can dry out our skin, cause hyperpigmentation and even trigger the arrival of more lines and wrinkles.

We understand that you want to look your best during the summer months, and cosmetic procedures can certainly help you refresh and rejuvenate your appearance ready for the warmest season of the year. However, experts agree that there are some types of cosmetic procedures that should be avoided during the summer months.

We are committed to keeping your skin as safe and healthy as possible. With this in mind, we have compiled this blog of the cosmetic treatments that should be avoided until the summer is over.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a highly effective treatment that can improve the appearance of the skin on your face, neck and even the backs of your hands. The process works by applying a specific chemical solution to the skin which causes the outermost layer/s to shed. There are different grades of chemical peel available depending on how deep you wish your skin to be affected.

When the outer layers are removed, the new, smoother layer is revealed. However, this skin is extremely sensitive and needs plenty of time to heal. If this fresh later of skin is exposed to the sun, it is extremely vulnerable to burning and damage which would render the result of the peel useless.

Laser hair removal

Everyone has unwanted body hair in at least one location, and when summer rolls around and you want to wear less clothing, this is likely to be revealed in all its glory unless you commit to a lengthy process of shaving, plucking and waxing. Laser hair removal might seem like the answer to your body hair prayers, but cosmetic specialists agree that it is a procedure that should be carried out in the run-up to summer, rather than during the season itself. This is for good reason. The natural pigmentation in your skin changes during the summer – even if you don’t set out to catch a tan. However, laser hair removal works by targeting the melanin pigment to remove hairs which are darker than our skin tone. When this process is applied to skin that might be darkening between sessions it makes it difficult for our treatment provider to determine which areas have been treated and which haven’t, and this could leave you with patchy results.

Facial laser treatments

Laser technology has completely transformed the way in which many cosmetic treatments are carried out. Many cosmetic enhancements are now performed by laser, particularly those which affect the face. This is because using the laser gives our cosmetic specialist complete control and accuracy to produce quality results. Laser treatments have been shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation and more. However, just like laser hair removal, some of those lasers used in facial treatments also target melanin – the pigment which causes parts of our skin to be darker. Using these lasers in summer can lead to patchy skin color and even trigger further melanin production so that pigmentation is enhanced.

Prescription retinoids for lines and wrinkles

Lines and wrinkles can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they make us look older than we really are. Many people who experience this issue take prescription retinoids – a class of Vitamin A derivative – which is known to help target fine lines, wrinkles, large pores and more. They do this by preserving your natural collagen stores and promoting new collagen production.

Unfortunately, research has found that retinoids can make your skin burn more easily than you might expect. For this reason, it is recommended that patients who use this solution switch to an alternative for the summer months.

If you would like more information on cosmetic procedures to be avoided this summer, or if you would like to find out which ones are safe and suitable to have over the coming months, you may contact our offices where our discreet and knowledgeable professionals will be delighted to assist you.