There’s something about the summer months that kicks us into a higher gear. Perhaps it’s the extra hours of daylight or the remembrance of summer fun during our youth. Whatever it is that sends many people into the mode of taking care of their personal needs during the summer; we certainly see this increase in the area of aesthetic medicine. If you’re considering visiting our Fresno office for Botox or other injectable treatment this summer, we want you to know a few crucial details so you can maximize the results you wish to achieve.
Do Botox And Sunlight Get Along?
Sometimes, patients are encouraged to avoid going out into the sunlight for more than a few minutes after they get Botox. This recommendation has led to the idea that Botox and sunshine don’t mix. This isn’t the case. If you are treated with Botox and have an afternoon at the pool scheduled the next day, you do not have to worry that your treatment somehow won’t take or won’t be as optimal as desired. The reason that doctors recommend temporary sun limitations is because UV light from sun rays could potentially exacerbate the side effects of Botox injections, such as redness and swelling. After the first 24 hours, this is no longer a concern.
Other Injectables Aren’t As Friendly
Dermal fillers don’t fall into the same category as Botox when it comes to protection from sun damage. Dermal fillers work because they insert hyaluronic acid (most of them, anyway) into dermal tissues to plump lines and add contours. Hyaluronic acid is an organic sugar that the body naturally produces. When the skin is exposed to too much UV light, this sugar compound is degraded. It doesn’t matter whether hyaluronic acid is produced by the body or inserted in the form of a dermal filler, UV exposure will cause it to deteriorate more rapidly than it would without exposure.
The fact that UV light can cause more rapid breakdown of dermal fillers doesn’t mean you cannot or should not obtain this treatment during the summer. Results can be protected by practicing good sun habits, especially within the first week after treatment. Minimize your time in the sun and wear high-SPF sunscreen when necessary and your cosmetic improvements are safe and sound.
Call our Fresno office at 559-435-SKIN (7546) to learn more about our injectable services.
