10 Essential Skincare Tips for Summer, According to a Hollywood Plastic Surgeon

This year, consider a new golden rule for summer travel: it’s far more important to know where your hat and sunscreen are than your passport. How you protect your face and body will likely determine how many times you’re begging your dermatologist, plastic surgeon or aesthetician to help reverse your tired, dry, and sun-spotted skin come September.

There’s no better season to be hypervigilant about your skin—a fact that Dr. Catherine Chang, one of the most prominent plastic surgeons in the United States, knows well. The board-certified Harvard fellow works as a facial and plastic reconstructive surgeon, and is not only beloved by clients all over the world, she’s also kept on speed dial by top Hollywood publicists (many of whom freely admit they talk to Chang more than their own mothers). An American-born daughter of Taiwanese immigrants, Chang climbed the ranks with talent and artistry, rising to the top of the her profession despite the statistics working against her (only 20 percent of all plastic surgeons are women, and less than 10 percent specialize in facial plastic surgery specifically). Today, she’s become an expert in devising the latest surgical and facial innovations. Chang has also gained a reputation for never mincing words, especially when it comes to medical science vs. unsubstantiated beauty claims. “I for one am not a big fan of ‘natural” skincare,’” Chang tells me. “Plastic surgery in my opinion is the most effective way to look younger.” )So perhaps you’re safe to throw out that pricey bottle of Kazakhstan-sourced linseed oil, which was regurgitated several times over by a mountain goat for its skin-healing, enzymatic properties.)

As the temps warm and sun-seekers begin to partake in summer activities, Dr. Chang shares with W her skincare insights, as well as the regimens and products she thinks are worthy.