The answer to all your beauty questions. Our dermatologist, Dr. Geddes Bruce, breaks down the biggest beauty topics from hair loss to botox. DM us. @camillestyle Please write down your questions and we will address them in the next column.
Over the past few years, in-office procedures have become more accessible and less intimidating. Gone are the days when cosmetic procedures were spoken of in hushed tones. Today, we’re having open and honest conversations about what makes us feel good, inside and out. For many of us, that includes exploring the ever-evolving landscape of beauty treatments that help us look our best. Featured: Tweakment.
This social media buzzword is broadly defined as a quick, natural procedure that allows you to get in and out of the spa without any downtime. While it may seem like a new phenomenon, non-invasive beauty treatments have always offered a middle ground between embracing our natural looks and making adjustments that help us become the best versions of ourselves. This is especially true during the summer, which is often called the self-care season.
This is a featured image from Michelle Nash’s interview with Lottie Brown.
If you want glowing skin before the holidays or want to feel your best this summer, look no further. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve consulted with resident dermatologists to bring you the latest on the most popular and effective non-invasive treatments for summer.
Analysis of the best non-invasive procedures for summer
Question: I have questions about cosmetic procedures, but I don’t know which ones are safe and effective. How do I find a non-invasive treatment that’s right for me?
Non-invasive treatments should complement your daily skincare routine to address skin concerns, maximize results, and help you feel your best. Every moment counts in the summer, and most of us want to make the most of our time outside. With non-invasive treatments, you don’t have to sacrifice summer for your skincare goals.
To help demystify non-invasive treatments for glowing skin this summer, we reached out to Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, who has a wealth of opinions on the subject.
“Summer is the season for traveling, outdoor barbecues, playing in the pool, and enjoying the waves at the beach. People don’t want to spend their summers holed up indoors recovering. They want to get outside and have fun. There’s also more ambient sunlight in the summer, which can increase the risk of developing hyperpigmentation after aggressive procedures,” says Dr. Geddes. “That’s why we typically hold off on more intense procedures until the fall or winter and stick to non-invasive treatments in the summer, which is especially important for patients with melanin-rich skin.”
Ahead, Dr. Geddes tells you what you need to know about non-invasive summer treatments and how to make the most of your spa visit.
Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce
Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in cosmetic and medical dermatology. She sees cosmetic dermatology as a synergy to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly consults patients with a balanced, natural approach to cosmetic and medical dermatology.
First of all, what is a tweak?
“Tweakments is a term used on social media to describe procedures that make small, natural changes to one’s appearance,” says Dr. Geddes. “It’s more like small adjustments or slight edits. It’s more about the degree of change not being dramatic. And it’s often achieved with non-invasive procedures.”
Noninvasive procedures have been around longer than the term “treatment,” but both refer to minor treatments that give you a “just like you, but better” look without disrupting your daily routine too much.
Who is a good candidate for noninvasive procedures?
If you’re wondering if noninvasive treatments are right for you, there’s good news: they probably are. Hear what Dr. Geddes has to say: “Anyone who is healthy and interested in maintaining or improving their appearance and feel is a good candidate for noninvasive procedures or adjustments. It’s all about having fun and feeling good!”
As with any other cosmetic decision, the best way to make sure you are doing the right thing for your cosmetic goals is to consult a professional. Talk to a dermatologist or schedule a consultation and then decide. This will help you determine if the treatment you want is right for you or help you choose the right treatment for your goals.
“It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay,” says Dr. Geddes. “The best way to find out is to consult with a professional, such as a board-certified dermatologist with cosmetic training.”
What should I know before undergoing a noninvasive procedure?
When it comes to non-invasive procedures in the summer, less downtime means less preparation before your appointment. However, for some treatments, there are some precautions you should take before and after your procedure.
“Even if they are non-invasive, most procedures require a strict sun avoidance period while healing. Generally, the less intense the treatment, the less downtime/sun protection needed.”
You may need to modify your regular skincare routine for a few weeks before your treatment to minimize the risk. But aside from temporarily avoiding AHAs and retinols (which you probably do anyway to protect your skin in the summer), the beauty of non-invasive treatments is their universality and how quickly you can get back to your routine afterward.
Some pre-procedure steps recommended by Dr. Geddes:
- Stop taking topical medications (such as retinoid creams) that may cause irritation a few days before the procedure.
- If you have a history of herpes simplex, tell your doctor.
- Don’t plan to try new treatments right before a major life event or trip. These are medical treatments that, even if they are non-invasive, carry real risks and potential complications.
Best Non-Invasive Treatments for Summer
From Botox to lasers, you may want smoother skin or even muscle tone adjustments. Dr. Geddes gives us the lowdown on the most popular non-invasive treatments for summer, but she says the best thing you can do this summer is enjoy it!
“Sometimes the best kind of glow comes from within. Spend quality time with friends and family. Laugh a lot. Make good memories. Eat fresh food. And move your body.”
Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce
Ahead, Dr. Geddes breaks down the best non-invasive procedures for summer. Read on to find out which option is right for you.
Bio-stimulant
These are injectable products designed to improve skin quality and volume by stimulating collagen production. They are often given as a series of treatments to optimize results.
- Advantages: It provides natural, lasting results by gradually stimulating collagen production, restoring volume and improving skin texture over time.
- disadvantage: Results from biostimulants take time to be seen, often taking several sessions and months to fully take effect. Some individuals may experience temporary swelling or bruising.
Micro needling
This is a procedure that uses a device with numerous needles to pierce the skin and stimulate wound healing. It is quick, relatively painless, and has minimal downtime, making it perfect for summertime treatments.
I love the glow it gives, and it’s safe for all skin types. Those with active skin infections or moderate acne should avoid it.
- Advantages: Microneedling stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, and reduces the appearance of scars and fine lines. It is minimally invasive with a relatively quick recovery time.
- disadvantage: Redness and sensitivity after the procedure are common and may last for several days. Results may vary and multiple sessions may be required to achieve desired results.
Surface chemical peeling
This is a very light acid that, when applied evenly to the skin, exfoliates the top layer. It can help lighten discoloration, temporarily minimize the appearance of pores, and improve skin texture.
The exact peel to be used on the skin should be chosen by a dermatologist to avoid complications. Before the peel, stop using any retinoids or irritating topical products for at least 5 days. Sun exposure should be minimized during healing, but usually only for a few days.
- Advantages: Superficial chemical peels gently remove dead skin cells to address minor skin imperfections and improve overall skin texture.
- disadvantage: The effects of superficial chemical peels are often temporary and regular treatments may be needed to maintain the results. Some individuals may experience mild irritation, redness, or flaking after the procedure.
(some) laser
Pulsed dye lasers (to target red) and low-power, low-intensity regenerative lasers (such as Clear and Brilliant for dark spots) have minimal downtime and are safe to perform in the summer. They should be performed by a professional to avoid complications.
- Advantages: Laser treatment can effectively solve various skin problems such as pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars, and the recovery time is relatively fast. It provides precise and intensive treatment, bringing about noticeable improvements.
- disadvantage: Laser treatments can be expensive, and the intensity of the treatment can cause discomfort during and after the procedure. There is also a risk of temporary redness, swelling, and hyperpigmentation, especially for those with darker skin tones.
