July in Missoula is peak outdoor season. From hiking Mount Sentinel to kayaking, locals spend as much time outside as possible. While enjoying the sunshine is part of the Western Montana lifestyle, it requires a smart strategy when planning your aesthetic treatments.
Certain treatments leave the skin temporarily photosensitive, making sun exposure risky. However, you do not have to put your aesthetic goals on pause until fall. Here is what you need to know about navigating aesthetic treatments safely during mid-summer.
What to Avoid (or Plan Carefully) During Peak Sun
Energy-based devices like IPL Photofacials and laser treatments (such as ResurFX) target pigment and vascularity in the skin. Because these lasers interact with melanin, undergoing treatments with tanned or sun-exposed skin increases the risk of hyperpigmentation or irritation.
- The Summer Rule: We typically recommend reserving aggressive laser resurfacing and IPL sessions for late summer or autumn when sun exposure naturally decreases.
Treatments That Are Safe and Effective for Summer
Fortunately, several treatments deliver fantastic results during the summer months with minimal-to-no sun sensitivity concerns:
- Botox & Dysport: Neuromodulators target the underlying muscles, making them completely unaffected by sun exposure.
- SkinVive Hydration: Perfect for counteracting the dehydrating effects of summer heat and high altitudes without increasing sun sensitivity.
- Lip Fillers: Enhance your natural lip volume and shape with zero impact from UV exposure.
- KeraFactor® Hair Treatments: Focus on scalp health and hair restoration without disturbing the facial skin barrier.
Protecting Your Investment
Regardless of which treatment you choose, daily application of medical-grade broad-spectrum SPF (like SkinMedica) is essential to protect your skin from high-altitude UV radiation.
Want to keep your skin refreshed while staying outdoor-ready? Book a consultation at Bellamah Aesthetics to build your customized summer treatment plan.
