5 Ways to Avoid Wrinkles in Summer

Summer, with its longer days and outdoor adventures, gives you plenty of time in the sunshine. The season also brings increased exposure to the environmental factors that accelerate skin aging. 

While wrinkles are a natural part of getting older, excessive sun exposure, dehydration, and other seasonal habits can contribute to fine lines and premature aging. Here at Dr. Brandon Plastic Surgery we offer a few smart skincare strategies to help protect your skin this summer. 

Read on to learn how to avoid summer being the season of wrinkles. 

1. Make sunscreen a habit

Sunscreen is one of the most effective anti-aging tools available.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays break down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and resilient. Over time, this damage can lead to wrinkles, sagging, and uneven skin texture.

For daily protection:

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
• Apply it every morning, even on cloudy days
• Reapply every two hours when outdoors
• Don't forget commonly missed areas like the neck, chest, ears, and backs of the hands

Consistent sunscreen use can significantly reduce the cumulative sun damage that contributes to visible aging.

2. Stay hydrated inside and out

Hot temperatures, sun exposure, and outdoor activities can leave your skin dehydrated. When skin lacks moisture, fine lines often become more noticeable, making you appear older. Well-hydrated skin tends to appear smoother, plumper, and more radiant.

Help maintain healthy hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and avoiding alcohol, which can dehydrate you. 

Externally, use a lightweight moisturizer suited to your skin type and incorporate products with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.

3. Wear protective accessories

Sunscreen is important, but it shouldn't be your only line of defense.

Wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and lightweight sun-protective clothing help reduce direct exposure to harmful rays. 

Sunglasses can be especially beneficial because they minimize squinting. This repetitive facial movement can contribute to the development of fine lines around your eyes over time.

4. Be gentle with your skin

Summer activities can sometimes be irritating to your skin. Frequent exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and heat can stress the skin barrier, making it important to avoid harsh products and aggressive scrubbing.

To keep skin healthy:

• Use gentle cleansers
• Avoid excessive exfoliation
• Moisturize regularly
• Remove makeup before bed
• Seek shade during peak sunlight hours

Supporting your skin barrier helps maintain moisture and can reduce the appearance of premature aging.

5. Consider professional preventive treatments

Many people wait until wrinkles become more noticeable before seeking treatment, but preventive care can often help you maintain a youthful appearance longer.

Depending on your goals, explore options like:

• Botox® and other neuromodulator injections to relax dynamic wrinkles
• Medical-grade skincare products
• Chemical peels
• Microneedling
• Laser skin rejuvenation treatments

These treatments can address early signs of aging, stimulate collagen production, and complement a healthy at-home skincare routine. Note that some services, like laser treatments, do require you to stay out of the sun in the weeks following the procedure to avoid damaging your skin.

Protect your skin now to look younger later

You don’t want to have to worry about accelerating skin aging during summer fun. But by protecting your skin from UV damage, staying hydrated, practicing healthy skincare habits, and exploring preventive treatments when appropriate, you can help minimize wrinkles and maintain a more youthful appearance.

If you're interested in personalized recommendations for preventing or treating wrinkles, Dr. Brandon Plastic Surgery can help. Call today or use the online tool to book your appointment to learn more about how we can help your skin look its most youthful.