Yes, you absolutely can get laser skin treatments in the summer, but you will need to be extra diligent about staying out of the sun and following pre- and post-treatment guidelines. That’s because sun exposure can increase the risk of complications like hyperpigmentation while getting laser treatments. However, with proper care, laser treatments can be safely and effectively performed during the warmer months – here’s how.
What’s Challenging about Summer Laser Treatments?
While it is important to keep your skin protected from sun exposure when getting laser treatments any time of year, it can sometimes be more challenging to avoid the sun during the warmer summer months. Laser treatments can temporarily make your skin more sensitive and prone to UV damage both before and after treatment.
Additionally, sweating from the summer heat can irritate your skin and slow the healing process after laser skin treatments. Therefore, it is crucial that you wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothing and avoid sun exposure as much as possible while getting laser treatments.
Preparing Your Skin for Laser Treatments
As noted above, summer laser treatments can be both safe and effective, but you may have to do a little extra prep work to make sure your skin is ready to start your laser treatments. Dr. Harrington instructs her patients to follow these general guidelines when preparing for laser skin treatments like Halo resurfacing, TRL laser peels and others:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for several weeks before your appointment, since you won’t be able to start laser treatments if your skin is actively tanned or sunburned.
- If you have to be outside for small periods of time before laser treatments, cover up with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Don’t apply sunless tanning lotions for 1 to 2 weeks before your appointment. The pigment in these products can interfere with the effectiveness of your laser treatments.
Caring for Your Skin after Laser Treatments
Similarly, you’ll have to keep your skin protected from the sun for several weeks after your laser treatment and in between appointments if you are getting multiple treatments. Dr. Harrington’s providers will give you detailed aftercare guidelines related to the specific laser treatment you received, but generally speaking, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks after getting laser skin treatments.
- Wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothing and seek shade whenever possible.
- Avoid heat and sweat for at least two weeks after your laser treatments, as heat and moisture can irritate your treated skin and slow the healing process.
- Moisturize regularly with a gentle moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and promote healing.
- Follow the specific aftercare instructions as closely as possible.
Not sure if you could be a good candidate for summer laser skin treatments? Call our Plymouth office at 612-213-1111 or get in touch with us online to schedule a consultation with one of our laser treatment specialists who can answer your questions and help you decide if now could be the perfect time to schedule your laser treatments.
Author: Dr. Jennifer Harrington
Dr. Jennifer Harrington is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and the medical director at SpaVie in Minneapolis. Dr. Harrington is recognized as one of the best female plastic surgeons, and is locally and nationally renowned for bringing the highest standards of medical excellence and aesthetic sensitivity to all procedures of the breast, body and face.
