Summer is in full swing, meaning it's the perfect time to get outside and have fun. Whether your summer agenda is packed with music festivals or you prefer to relax at a beachside café, you'll want to look and feel your best this summer. Before you head out for fun in the sun, stop in to see a Portrait provider and ask about all the best summer treatments to get ready for festivals, fireworks, and fun.

Overview of popular treatments, procedures, and lifestyle routines during the summer

Taking care of your skin and body will ensure you're up for anything during the summer months. You can pick a diet and exercise plan that will maximize your energy. You can also take care of your skin with specialty products that your Portrait provider carries in their studio. To perfect your pout or smooth out body bulges, look into procedures like dermal fillers or fat reduction. Portrait providers are highly trained and knowledgeable about all the best procedures for summertime prep, and they can help you choose what's right for you.

Botox®

An easy way to give your face a quick refresh is to see your provider for Botox® or similar injectable neurotoxins. These minimally invasive treatments offer subtle but impactful adjustments to your appearance.

What is Botox®?

Botox® is an injectable serum made from botulinum toxin. The serum is a paralytic, immobilizing facial muscles for a smoother, younger appearance. Botox® can hide the appearance of wrinkles and provide subtle adjustments to your face without surgery. You can use Botox® to lift the brows, even out mild facial asymmetry, and smooth lines such as frown lines or crow's feet.

There are other botulinum toxin brands such as Dysport® and Xeomin® that offer the same effects as Botox®. Your provider can suggest which product is best for you.

Why is Botox® a popular treatment during the summer?

Botox® is a popular treatment any time of year, and it's perfect for getting ready for summer. It has no downtime, and there's typically little or no swelling or bruising after injections. It takes about two weeks for the injections to take effect, but they last for several months.

If you're planning to be out and about this summer, Botox® can make sure you're photo-ready. The injections leave you looking refreshed and alert. Botox® will also slow the progress of future lines by limiting how your skin creases as you smile for the camera.

Who is a good candidate for Botox®?

Botox® is an excellent option for people of any age. In addition to making your skin look smoother in the short term, Botox® will also slow the progress of future lines. Your facial muscles will move less, so your skin won't gain expression lines as quickly. If you plan to sing, dance, and laugh this summer, Botox® will help ensure the good times don't show on your skin.

Filler

Dermal fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the United States. In 2020, more than 3.4 million people had dermal filler injections. These versatile treatments are affordable, and the results are immediate.

What is filler?

Dermal fillers, sometimes called soft tissue fillers, are substances that your provider can inject to add volume to parts of your face. Fillers are versatile treatments, and they are useful for more than enhancing lips. You can use them to plump up lines around your mouth, and they can add fullness to cheeks for a more sculpted appliance. You can even use them to shape the jawline and get a stronger profile. Many fillers are made from hyaluronic acids, which can be dissolved to reverse the effects if you don't like the results.

Why are fillers a popular treatment during the summer?

Fillers are a long-lasting treatment, so they are terrific for summer and will keep you looking great for up to a year after you get them. Fillers take effect instantly, so you can see the results as soon as you leave the office. You can get fillers in the weeks before heading out to a festival or vacation and notice their effects right away.

Who is a good candidate for fillers?

Nearly anyone can get fillers. Fillers are the perfect treatment to add glam before embarking on your summer vacation. A touch of filler to plump the pout or injections to fill out the cheeks will give anyone confidence. Plan to have your appointment a few weeks before any big events. There is a risk of mild bruising or swelling near the injection site, but this is normal and usually fades in a few days.

Laser hair removal

We all have hair, and we all put too much thought into dealing with it. If you would rather focus on the 'do on your head rather than worrying about your bikini line, laser hair removal might be for you.

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a process where your provider runs a laser device over the skin where unwanted hair grows. The groin, underarms, and upper lip are common areas for laser hair removal. The pigment in the hair absorbs the light and converts it to heat, damaging the hair follicles. That damage prevents or delays future hair growth in the treated area.

Why is laser hair removal a popular treatment during the summer?

Summer is the perfect time for laser hair removal because your legs, armpits, and bikini line will most likely be on display. Whether you're at a concert or on the beach, you will want to dress in clothing that keeps you cool, and that probably means showing skin. Laser hair removal means you can go all summer without waxing or shaving.

Are there any risks associated with getting laser hair removal?

The procedure is low-risk, but you must take care of your skin properly before and after. Your skin will be sensitive, and you will need to protect it from the sun. Use sun protection, such as broad-spectrum sunscreen. If you don't protect your skin from the sun, you may have pigment changes that leave light patches on your skin.

Who is a good candidate for laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is most effective on people with light skin and dark hair, though people with all skin types can use the treatment. Your provider can tell you how your hair and skin will likely respond to treatment. You may need several treatments to achieve the full effect, so plan your hair removal well ahead of any special events.

Fat reduction procedures

Targeted fat reduction has come a long way since the introduction of surgical liposuction. Nowadays, you can get in-office procedures to reduce the appearance of fat on the face and body. There's almost no downtime, so you can return to regular activity the next day.

What are examples of fat-reducing procedures?

There are surgical and nonsurgical procedures that remove unwanted fat. Nonsurgical examples include cryolipolysis, injectable treatments, laser fat reduction, red light therapy, and ultrasound treatments.

Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis is better known by the brand name CoolSculpting®. It's a noninvasive procedure where areas with excess fat are treated with extreme cold. The temperatures kill off fat cells, leading to a smoother appearance after treatment. This treatment is usually used for areas on the body, not the face. The procedure takes about an hour and doesn't require any anesthesia or medication. You can typically resume regular activity on the same day, and your results will appear gradually over the next four to six months.

Injectable deoxycholic acid (Kybella®)

Deoxycholic acid is an injectable treatment that kills off fat cells in the area under the chin. The brand Kybella® is the best-known deoxycholic acid treatment. You may want a local anesthetic to ease discomfort from having injections in the sensitive area under your chin. Your provider will inject the deoxycholic acid in multiple spots to ensure even results. You may experience swelling or bruising after treatment. Some people need multiple treatments spaced four to six weeks apart, and results appear four to six weeks after treatment.

Why are fat reduction treatments popular during the summer?

Targeted fat reduction is ideal for those stubborn spots that don't respond to exercise. Treating the areas that won't get toned at the gym can make you feel more confident in summer clothes and swimwear.

Are there any risks associated with targeted fat reduction?

Both CoolSculpting® and Kybella® are low-risk treatments. Though rare, people may experience facial unevenness or a lopsided smile after Kybella®, and CoolSculpting® can also produce uneven results. In extremely rare cases, the body can have an atypical reaction and produce new fat cells at the treatment site. After any procedure, it's important to use proper sun protection, especially if you're experiencing bruising or sensitivity. Sun exposure can make those symptoms worse.

Who is a good candidate for fat reduction procedures?

Minimally invasive fat reduction procedures are best for people with good skin elasticity. Removing fat under loose skin can exacerbate wrinkles and sagginess. Younger skin that hasn't stretched due to major weight fluctuations or lost elasticity due to age will respond best to the loss of fat volume from these procedures.

Working out

Summer is a terrific time to switch up your workout routines. You can get out of the gym and exercise outdoors, and working out can also be a social activity. Just don't forget to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated in the warm weather.

"10K steps a day" goal

A lot of fitness experts suggest setting daily step goals. Walking is an easy way to keep your entire body moving. It improves cardiovascular health, reduces the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, and boosts mental health thanks to frequent breaks for movement. Ten thousand steps equal about five miles per day. You can track steps on a fitness device, smartwatch, or pedometer. If you're not used to walking longer distances, start with a lower step goal and work your way up to ten thousand.

Low-impact workouts

If you're easing into a new fitness routine, you should look for low-impact workouts that spare your joints and muscles from overwork. Swimming and water aerobics are great options since the water offers resistance for muscles without stress on joints. Biking is another terrific summer activity that increases your heart rate without too much pressure on joints. Fitness focusing on flexibility, like yoga or Pilates, can also be good for low-impact exercise. Work with an experienced instructor to make sure you're not setting yourself up for injury.

High-impact workouts

Nothing feels as good as a killer workout if you're already acclimated to regular exercise. Group fitness classes like Zumba or boot camps are structured, motivating, and get your heart pumping. If you're a runner, summer is race season. You can train for a 10K or marathon and check off major fitness goals while you get into incredible shape. Mud runs combine running and other endurance activities like hills and climbing over obstacles. These races are great group activities, so you and your friends can help each other on the course. If you're up for a real challenge, combine running, biking, and swimming for a triathlon.

Healthy eating

There is nothing like a summertime farmer's market to inspire healthy eating. This time of year, fruits and vegetables are abundant and delicious. You can use this time to eat more veggies and fruits, which can help you lose weight and increase overall health.

Whole food, low-carb diet

When nutrition experts talk about whole foods, they generally mean ingredients that haven't been processed before consumers buy them. Meat, vegetables, fruit, and grains are all available in whole forms. The benefit of cooking with whole foods is that you can control the amounts of added fat, salt, and sugar in your meals. A diet that centers on whole foods can also be naturally low-carb since much of our typical carb intake comes from prepared foods like baked goods and snack foods. This type of eating requires prep time and meal planning, but it's delicious and healthy.

Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet is based on the foods native to the Mediterranean regions in Europe, such as Greece and parts of Italy. Meals include fish, lean meat, nuts, whole grains, fresh vegetables, and heart-healthy fats like olive oil. The diet tends to be low on carbs and sugar but high on flavors from herbs and spices. Eating Mediterranean-style meals can be associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

Vegan

Vegan diets are entirely plant-based. People who adopt a vegan lifestyle don't eat any animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, or honey. It's possible to get balanced nutrition from vegan staples like vegetables, beans, legumes, fruits, and grains, but it's wise to talk to a doctor or nutritionist about how to get started. Relying on whole foods and home cooking will ultimately be healthier than buying prepared vegan foods since prepared foods tend to be higher in salt and sugar.

Paleo

The paleo diet mimics the diet that people in hunter-gatherer tribes would have eaten. Paleo meal plans avoid foods that rely on cultivated products, such as grains, dairy, and legumes. The exact ingredients for paleo meals are similar to other diets that encourage avoiding processed foods in favor of simple ingredients and home preparation. Most meals in paleo diets should contain lean meats, nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils, alongside fruits and vegetables. In a strict paleo diet, you would avoid bread, pasta, rice, and other grains. Seasonings are allowed, even if our paleolithic ancestors didn't have access to them, but salt is limited in most paleo plans.

Keto

There are several food plans that suggest eating high quantities of protein and low quantities of carbs. Most suggest lean meat and low-fat dairy while avoiding carbs and processed foods. A strict keto diet is a bit different in that it encourages eating high-fat foods instead of high-protein foods. It dramatically limits carbs and sugars, including most fruits and vegetables. The theory is that by eating primarily fats, your body will not have glucose to use for immediate energy and will burn stored fat instead. Experts caution that a keto diet has risks, such as nutrient deficiencies, brain fog and memory problems, digestive issues, and potentially kidney or liver damage. Discuss a keto diet with your doctor before your try it, as there may be better options for you.

Skincare and sun safety

If you want to look great every summer, take the time to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays. The sun can damage skin, which increases the risk of premature aging and skin cancer.

SPF tips

Sun protection should be part of your daily routine. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least thirty and plan to reapply it every couple of hours or after sweating or swimming. Mineral-based sunscreens offer a physical barrier between your skin and the UV rays, and chemical sunscreens absorb the UV rays so they can't harm your skin. You can find sunscreens in creams, sprays, balm-like sticks, or powder form. Clothing and hats can also help protect your skin if your sunscreen wears off while you're out and about.

Lip, earlobe, and neck protection

All your skin is vulnerable to sun damage, even the spots you may not think about all the time. Ears are a common site of skin cancer because they're easy to forget. Make sure to cover the rims of your ears and earlobes when applying sunscreen to your face. You should also always protect your neck and décolletage. Some beauty experts call those areas the "French face" after the French habit of treating the areas below the chin with the same care as the face.

For your lips, find a sunscreen formulated specifically for lip care. You can choose a lip balm with SPF in the formula. There are also colored lip products that incorporate sunscreen. Reapply often since lipstick and lip balm wear off quickly, especially after eating or drinking.

Sunless tanners

If you want a sun-kissed glow without the damaging effects of UV rays, go for a sunless tanner. Spray tans are a great alternative to sunbathing, and if you want to try a home tanner, there are plenty of options. You can use foams, creams, or sprays. Some show color immediately while others develop slowly, and you can layer the tanning effects over time. Just be sure to have old towels handy when you wash up after tanning so you won't stain your good linens.

Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water is crucial during warm weather months. Heat causes you to lose more fluids through sweating, and you risk heat-related illness if you don't replace fluids. You'll generally feel better if you drink enough water, and it will also help your skin look its best. If your body is under-hydrated, your skin may look dull, dry, and saggy. Be sure to carry a water bottle when you're out and about and sip regularly, and be mindful of how much alcohol and caffeine you consume since those can be dehydrating as well.

Your summer skin care routine

A regular skin care routine is a must for anyone out and about during the summer. Sweat can attract grime to your skin, leading to dullness, oiliness, or acne. A simple routine for cleansing and moisturizing will fend off breakouts. Use a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and dirt, and follow that with a retinol product to fight signs of aging. Use a moisturizer and an eye cream to give your skin the hydration it needs to recover overnight and protect it from dryness during the day. Always make sure to use sun protection when you're going to be outside, and reapply it frequently.

Book your summer treatments today

With attention to skin care, lifestyle choices like sun protection, and quality cosmetic treatments, you can look your best all summer long. Portrait providers are certified to offer laser hair removal and injectable treatments, and many sell a range of medical-grade skin care products in their studios. Providers can work with you to design a personalized summer treatment beauty plan, whether you're spending time at festivals, traveling, or relaxing by the pool.

To learn more about cosmetic procedures and skin care for the summer months, contact a Portrait provider today.

‍

‍