5 Tips for Protecting Your Facelift from the Summer Sun
5 Tips for Protecting Your Facelift from the Summer Sun
Following your facelift procedure, you’ll likely want to head outdoors and enjoy some summer fun while enjoying your new look. But before you bask in the sunshine just yet, keep in mind that after any plastic surgery procedure, your skin is going to be more sensitive to the sun. But the good news is that there are five simple things you can do to keep your excellent facelift results protected from the sun while still enjoying yourself.
1. Limit Sun Exposure
While this might seem like a no-brainer, limiting your sun exposure is the best way to protect your skin from sun damage. That said, it can be difficult to avoid the sun altogether, especially during the warm summer months. Whenever possible, try to stay out of the midday sun, when UV rays are at their strongest. This is typically between the hours of noon and 2:00PM.
2. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
To shield your face from harmful UV rays, a fashionable large-brimmed sunhat (with few holes) can be extremely useful. You should also choose a great pair of sunglasses with built-in UVA and UVB protection that wrap around the sides of your face for maximum protection, both after your facelift and for excellent eye health in general. (WebMD)
3. Use High SPF Sunscreen
It may go without saying, but broad-spectrum, high SPF sunscreen is a must if you’re planning to spend time in the sun. Keep in mind that your skin is still susceptible to sunburns even on cloudy, overcast, or rainy days, so using a daily sunscreen is your best bet when it comes to making sure your facelift results are protected from the sun. (The American Scientist)
4. Use an SPF Lip Balm
Even if you’re using plenty of sunscreen, your lips could still be exposed to UV rays, and can thus burn and peel. Using an SPF lip balm is a great way to keep your lips looking and feeling healthy, supple, and soft, especially following a facelift procedure. Another tip to keep in mind is that lip gloss can actually attract the sun’s rays, so try to avoid adding shine to your lips, even if your lip gloss contains SPF. (NBC News)
5. Avoid Deliberate Tanning
Even if you cover your face while you bask in the sunshine, no tanning is safe or healthy, especially while your body is still in its repair process after a facelift or other cosmetic treatment. Your skin tans as a response to damage, which can hinder your recovery process and may even affect the quality of your results. Outdoor and indoor tanning are equally harmful, so the best practice is really to avoid deliberate tanning and keep your skin covered up or protected with ample sunscreen.
The Bottom Line
Many women and men opt for facelifts to reverse the signs of aging, smooth away fine lines and wrinkles, and regain self-confidence and a positive body image. Once you choose the right plastic surgeon for your procedure, maintaining those excellent results can really be as easy as allowing your body the time it needs to heal and recover. Optimize your natural healing process by staying out of the sun, drinking plenty of water, and keeping an open line of communication with your plastic surgeon.
If you’re considering a facelift, but still have questions or concerns about the procedure, speaking with an experienced plastic surgeon can be a useful place to start. At Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh and Wexford, our board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Heil would be happy to meet one-on-one with you to discuss your needs and goals, as well as design an individualized surgical plan for you. Dr. Heil is committed to providing his clients with a relaxed, comfortable experience before, during, and after treatment.
For more information about your facelift options, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heil, please feel free to contact us at 724-264-3608 and take the next step toward feeling confident in your appearance.