When you decide to get a facelift, you’re not just making a cosmetic procedure—you’re giving yourself a fresh start and a boost of confidence. It’s a significant step and a major investment, so you want to make sure to take good care of your skin while it’s healing. In the summer months, it is particularly important to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays after surgery. These harmful rays can age your face by breaking down collagen and elastin fibers. Collagen and elastin are the foundation of healthy, youthful skin, and when they’re compromised, the skin can sag, wrinkle, and show signs of aging more rapidly. In addition to aging the skin, sun exposure during the healing period can increase the risk of scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
For someone who has just undergone a facelift, sun exposure can undermine the results of the procedure. However, with a few simple precautions, you can keep your skin safe and glowing. Keep reading to learn how to keep your new look fabulous and free from sun damage for years to come.
Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your best friend when it comes to preventing aging skin. You should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s crucial to apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate through clouds. Also, remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Sunscreen is your invisible shield, protecting your facelift from the sun’s harmful rays.
Wear Protective Clothing
What better way to complete your new look than with clothes that complement your refreshed face? Wide-brimmed hats, sun-protective scarves, and sunglasses with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) not only make for great summer fashion choices, but also provide essential protection for your face. These accessories block direct sunlight, giving you an extra layer of defense on top of your sunscreen. Embrace the opportunity to wear chic hats and oversized shades as part of your summer beauty regimen.
Seek Shade
You can (and should!) enjoy fun in the sun once your plastic surgeon gives you the green light to do so. However, since the sun is at its strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, try to plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. While you’re outside, seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. Whether you’re relaxing in a park with a good book or having lunch outdoors with friends, find a spot under a tree or an umbrella. The goal is to avoid direct sunlight on your healing skin.
Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds might seem like a quick way to get that sun-kissed look while avoiding the sun, but they’re a big no-no for your healing skin. These beds emit UV radiation that can be even more intense than the sun’s rays, posing a significant risk to your skin’s recovery process. Be sure to stay clear of them to ensure your skin stays safe and healthy.
Caring for your skin is an ongoing process, but the payoff is a radiant and youthful look that can last for many years. If you are considering a facelift, New York facial plastic surgeon Dr. Konstantin and his team would love to meet with you and answer any questions you have! Please contact us via our consultation form or call us at 212-380-3634 for more information.
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