Keep your Skin Summer Safe 

Along the Gulf Coast, the sun’s intensity brings both joy and challenges, especially for our skin. Few understand this better than Hannah Grogan, FNP, master aesthetic injector and owner of The Sculptry, set to open soon. Born and raised in Lake Charles, she’s seen firsthand the harmful effects of the sun on our over-exposed skin. Grogan shares her expert advice on sun safety and maintaining an anti-aging routine during the scorching summer months. 

 Sun Safety 101: Protect Your Skin 

Grogan emphasizes the importance of sun protection as the foundation of any skincare and anti-aging routine.  

• Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. “These three items are your summer skin saviors,” says Grogan. A wide-brimmed hat provides crucial shade for your face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses protect not only your eyes but also the delicate skin around them. And sunscreen, of course, is indispensable. 

• Use sunscreens with SPF 30+ and reapply frequently. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. “Reapplication is key. Every two hours, and even more often if you’re swimming or sweating, or if you already have existing pigmentation concerns.” No sunscreen can block 100% UV rays, so combining it with other protective measures is essential. 

• Check sunscreen expiration dates. Expired sunscreen can be ineffective. “Using expired sunscreen is almost like not using any at all.” 

• Look for sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These ingredients provide broad-spectrum protection and are less likely to cause skin irritation. “They physically block UV rays, making them ideal for sensitive skin.”  

• Understand the difference between UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are primarily responsible for premature aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays affect the surface and cause sunburn. “A good sunscreen will protect against both,” says Grogan. 

Continuing Your Skin Health Routine During the Summer 

While some aesthetic treatments are best avoided in the summer due to increased sun exposure, others can be safely enjoyed with proper precautions. Grogan recommends the four following treatments to keep your skin looking fresh and youthful during the summer months: 

• HydraFacial 

This treatment hydrates dry summer skin and reduces congestion and blackheads caused by heavy sports sunblocks. The HydraFacial cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses your skin with intensive serums, leaving it glowing and refreshed. 

• Chemical Peels 

Chemical peels remove dead skin cells damaged by the sun, revealing fresh new skin underneath. “However, it’s crucial to avoid sun exposure during recovery to protect your new skin from damage,” Grogan advises. 

• RF Microneedling 

Radiofrequency microneedling generates new, collagen-rich tissue, tightens skin, and reduces scars, wrinkles, stretch marks, and fine lines. It’s an excellent alternative to a laser treatment in the summer. Like chemical peels, strict sun avoidance during recovery and ongoing use of sunblock are required to maintain results. 

• Sofwave 

Sofwave utilizes ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production and helps visibly lift and tighten the skin. It is safe for all skin types and has zero downtime, making it a safe procedure during the summer. 

 “Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it’s also a time to be extra mindful of your skin,” says Grogan. “Treatments like HydraFacial, chemical peels, microneedling, and radiofrequency microneedling can be safely done in the summer if you commit to sun protection, which is the foundation for preventing future photo damage and skin cancer.  Protect your investment!” 

Grogan is excited to announce the upcoming opening of The Sculptry, a luxury medical aesthetics clinic in Lake Charles. “Our med spa will offer the best sun care products on the market and provide all the treatments mentioned above, plus more.”