Like many folks in the Pacific Northwest, my life tends to turn on full blast in the summer months. After the dreary winter and wet spring, when the summer sun finally comes out I like to take full advantage! But thinking about the abundant yet hectic pace of summer life also has me thinking of some best practices for scheduling treatments in summer. While any of my treatments can be received at any time of year, there are some weather-specific and seasonal considerations to keep in mind.
Filler before Travel- schedule at least 2 weeks early
First things first, if you are going to be receiving any filler treatment before traveling, it is necessary to schedule the treatment at least two weeks in advance of departure. This way you are available in the event of any complication. While complications are rare, it’s important to honor the possibility and ensure that you are in town and available just in case. Flying after filler is also a consideration. Decreased airplane cabin pressure can exacerbate any residual swelling caused by filler procedures. In some people residual swelling can last up to two weeks. While most major healing after a filler treatment will occur within the first few days, the two week mark is the ideal amount of time to wait before any travel or big plans.
Botox takes two full weeks to kick in
When it comes to scheduling procedures in advance of big events (such as that backyard wedding!) the two-week rule still applies. For example: while Botox generally takes effect within the first 4-5 days, it still takes a full two weeks for the results to fully settle down. Sometimes during that second week there can be some wonky and uneven appearance. In some people this can look “patchy”. After two weeks, the treatment will be even and in full effect. Considering this it is ideal to schedule Botox at least two weeks before a major event. Planning to get Botox before your wedding? Plan at least 4-6 weeks ahead of time just in case adjustments need to be made.
Microneedling and Sun Exposure
Another popular procedure, microneedling, has its own considerations during the summer- Sun Exposure. The purpose of microneedling is to cause micro-injuries in the skin, this is what stimulates the body to “heal itself” and build new collagen. However, this causes the skin to be extra sensitive after this procedure, so I recommend scheduling a summer microneedling treatment a good seven days before any heavy sun exposure or an intensive outdoor activity. The micro-injuries caused by the treatment damage the skin’s natural barrier, and solar radiation too soon after treatment will damage the deeper and more vulnerable layers. Sun exposure after microneedling can also cause Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation which causes the skin to develop dark spots. Sunscreen is always a must to protect the skin, but especially so after microneedling. So, if you are wanting microneedling this summer just be sure to protect your investment with this extra bit of planning.
If you’re a weekend warrior, schedule your treatment earlier in the week, like Monday or Tuesday. After Botox injections it is imperative to wait at least 5 hours before any exercise. After Filler or Microneedling, wait 2-3 days before any heavy exercise. Too much exercise too soon after a procedure could cause irritation or swelling, and disrupt the healing process.
My Favorite Sunscreen
Lastly, I want to share that I finally found a favorite sunscreen that actually feels good on my skin. I’ve always wanted to be a person who actually wears sunscreen every day (it’s literally my job to tell you to do this), but it’s taken me a long time to find the right product for me. Beauty of Joseon “Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics” (SPF50+ PA++++) is a Korean brand, and my current favorite sunscreen. So far I love this product because it fully dries into the skin and doesn’t leave behind a sticky or tacky feeling (my nemesis). Many other sunscreens I’ve tried over the years always left behind a tacky, sticky feeling which drove me nuts. I love this one because once it dries, you don’t even know it’s there.
