Noninvasive procedures for back-to-school season

As the summer draws to a close and the fall season lurks on the horizon, it's time to get ready to go back to school. For any student who has spent plenty of time in the great outdoors this season soaking up the summer sun, one crucial step in preparing to go back to college is getting their skin refreshed.

To better understand what patients can do to help counterbalance the effects of sun damage, dryness and other summertime skin occurrences, we spoke with ASPS Member Surgeons Sheila Nazarian, MD, and Karen Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, along with Emily Sespaniak, NP, who is the aesthetic injector at Dr. Horton's practice.

Why a post-summer refresh is important

Your skin may not show visible damage after the summer season, but there are factors that can harm its health, which can affect its appearance in both the short and long term.

"Summer can take a serious toll on the skin," said Dr. Nazarian. "Increased sun exposure, heat, sweat and environmental pollutants often lead to clogged pores, uneven texture, hyperpigmentation and even breakouts. For college-aged patients, whose skin is already navigating hormonal changes and stress, it's especially important to reset their skincare routine. This post-summer refresh helps rebalance the skin, address any damage and prepare it for the new season with targeted treatments and ingredients."

There's no need to hide from the sun during the summer, but proactively protecting your skin is critical.

"I am not one of those doctors who wants people to hibernate over the summer," said Dr. Nazaian. "Use sunscreen, but also have fun and live your life. We can take the summer off of your skin in the fall."

Dr. Nazarian recommended addressing the following concerns with a post-summer refresh:

• Sun damage and pigmentation: Look for signs of uneven skin tone, freckles that have darkened or sunspots.
• Clogged pores and breakouts: Sweat, sunscreen buildup and travel can all lead to congestion.
• Dryness or flakiness: Often from being in the sun, pool or ocean.
• Uneven skin texture: Post-sunburn healing can leave skin rough or bumpy.

Patients can counteract these potentially negative effects by using daily sun protection during every season.

"If patients are good about sun protection during the summer and continue to adhere to a skincare routine, very little else should be required heading into the fall," said Sespaniak. "Of course, every patient is different, so for specific post-summer concerns, patients should consult with a skincare professional for evaluation and personalized recommendations."

Ideal noninvasive procedures ideal for college-aged patients

For college-aged patients interested in a refresh after the summer season, there are several popular noninvasive procedures that are highly effective yet gentle enough to undergo before returning to school.

"The Clear + Brilliant laser is a tried and true 'introductory' laser with minimal downtime and beautiful results, specifically used to treat young patients in their 20s and 30s," said Dr. Horton. "This laser is non-ablative, meaning it does not remove the outer layer of the skin, so it's a relatively easy healing process with minimal risk. The Clear + Brilliant stimulates collagen and targets hyperpigmentation, giving a nice glow to the skin."

Other, more comprehensive treatments can also benefit college-aged patients before going back to school in the fall.

"At my practice, we see a lot of interest from college-aged patients in DiamondGlow facials for deep cleansing, exfoliation and infusion of medical-grade serums, laser hair removal for long-term convenience, broad band light or peels to restore glow and hydration, microneedling radiofrequency or profractional laser for acne scars and texture and light neurotoxin (baby Botox) for preventive wrinkle care in select patients who are expressive or genetically prone to early lines," said Dr. Nazarian.

Further considerations for college-aged patients

A good skincare routine is your first line of defense. Going away to college is a good time for establishing or reestablishing positive self-care habits.

"College is a time for self-expression and building lifelong habits – including skincare," said Dr. Nazarian. "Starting early with the right treatments and routine can prevent future skin issues and boost confidence. But the goal isn't perfection – it's healthy skin that makes you feel good in your own body. I always encourage patients to be consistent, be gentle and make time for self-care, even in a busy college schedule."

Now is a great time to start a healthy routine, if you haven't already. The routine skincare habits you establish now will pay off in both the short and long term.

"The time to set healthy adult habits for life really starts in college," said Sespaniak. "Aside from a good skincare routine as previously mentioned, making good hydration a habit, trying to eat enough protein, fruits and veggies and establishing a good nighttime routine will ensure your body is getting the nourishment and rest it needs to function optimally in what can be a stressful time with new responsibilities and deadlines. As a bonus, these good habits will definitely be reflected in your skin!"

One final consideration in skincare and aesthetics for college-aged patients lies in the ever-present influence of social media.

"It's easy to get sucked into the aesthetics world on social media, especially if you research beauty or skincare," said Sespaniak. "College-aged patients should really focus on the basics, and unless there are concerns like acne or post-acne marks or other specific skin concerns, it's all about prevention at this age. The better your habits are now, the less you'll need to worry about corrective treatments down the line. Enjoy your youth!"

Following fun in the sun during the summer season, it's important to think about a skin refresh when heading into the fall. This is especially true for college-aged patients who are heading back to school for a new semester. You can set yourself up for glowing success in a new school year and beyond with the right noninvasive procedures and a focus on building an effective skincare routine.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.