You might be wondering… “Can I do laser treatments during the summer?”
Our answer: Laser skin treatments—like resurfacing, pigmentation correction, vascular therapy, or hair removal—are some of the most effective ways to reveal clearer, smoother skin. But for the safest, most predictable results, timing is key. At Gillett Health, we generally recommend avoiding certain laser treatments during the summer months if you plan to be outdoors. Here’s why—and how to plan your treatment timeline for the best outcome with our advanced laser technology.
1. Your Skin Is More Sun-Sensitive After Laser Treatments
Most lasers work by creating controlled micro-injuries or by targeting pigment, blood vessels, or hair follicles. This triggers the skin’s natural repair process. After a session—especially with our CO2 and Erbium resurfacing lasers—your skin is more fragile and more prone to UV damage, hyperpigmentation, and irritation if exposed to sunlight too soon.
2. Sun Exposure Can Compromise Your Results
The sun can undo your results if your skin is still healing. UV rays can cause dark spots to return or new pigmentation to develop, leading to uneven tone or blotchy patches—exactly what lasers like our Alma Harmony ClearLift, DyeVL, or VascuPen are designed to treat. Proper sun avoidance ensures your results are long-lasting and smooth.
3. Higher Risk of Complications
Healing skin exposed to heat and UV rays may develop more inflammation, redness, or scarring. For those prone to melasma or pigment conditions, summer sun can make these conditions harder to control, even after treatment with targeted lasers like DyeVL for pigmentation or ClearLift for overall tone and texture.
4. Not All Lasers Are the Same
Different lasers come with different downtime and sun-sensitivity levels:
- CO2 Laser Resurfacing: A powerful, deeper resurfacing option with more healing time and strict sun avoidance.
- Erbium Laser: Effective for fine lines and mild resurfacing with slightly faster healing but still requires excellent sun protection.
- Alma Harmony Laser Platform: Includes multiple technologies:
- SHR for hair removal — treated areas should be covered to prevent irritation and pigment changes.
- DyeVL for vascular and pigmentation concerns — best done when UV exposure is low.
- VascuPen for broken capillaries — same caution applies.
- Tattoo Removal — also leaves skin more sun-sensitive.
- ClearLift — a gentle “lunchtime” laser, but UV protection is still important for best results.
Even our gentle, no-downtime lasers require mindful sun care for consistent results.
5. How to Protect Treated Skin If You Must Be Outside
If you’ve had a laser session and can’t avoid being outdoors:
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking clothing.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ and reapply every two hours.
- Stay in the shade whenever possible.
- Limit time outdoors during peak UV hours (10 AM–4 PM).
6. When Is the Best Time for Laser Treatments?
For most laser treatments—especially CO2 resurfacing, Erbium, DyeVL, hair removal, and tattoo removal—fall and winter are ideal. Cooler weather, weaker UV rays, and more indoor time help your skin heal evenly and reduce the risk of complications.
7. What Can You Do Instead During Summer?
If you want to maintain healthy, bright skin while waiting for laser season:
- Refresh your skin with gentle options like a SaltFacial or HydraFacial.
- Try microneedling, which can safely boost collagen with proper sun protection.
- Use medical-grade skincare rich in antioxidants and daily SPF to protect your investment and prep skin for fall.
8. Preparing Now for Fall Laser Treatments
Use summer to get your skin laser-ready:
- Apply sunscreen every day, rain or shine.
- Avoid tanning beds and deliberate sunbathing.
- Consider a brightening serum or gentle retinoid, if recommended by your provider.
- Schedule your CO2, Erbium, or Alma Harmony treatments early—fall appointments book quickly.
Bottom Line
Sun and lasers don’t always mix. To get the best results and keep your skin healthy, plan most laser sessions for the cooler months when sun exposure is low.
Curious about which laser treatment is right for you or when to start? Contact Gillett Health today—our experienced team will guide you through safe, effective options for your unique skin goals.
