Is summer okay to have laser treatment?

Question

I was told that I can not have laser treatment in summer, and need to wait winter. Also, I must have lightening cream pre laser for pigmentation since I am Asian type skin. Are these true?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Some types of laser, such as IPL (which actually isn't a laser wavelength, but is ofter referred to as "laser"), should be avoided if the patient has had prior sun exposure. Often times it doesn't make sense to start a series of IPL treatments during the summer depending on the patient's sun lifestyle.Other types of laser can be performed during the summer if the patient can avoid direct sun exposure during the treatment and recovery period. Sun screen and hats are recommended.If your concerns are related to hyperpigmentation, then yes it makes sense that you might be prescribed a course of hydroquinone prior to the laser treatments.All the best,Tom Buonassisi

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Lasers can be used during the summer.  Sun protection, skin care, and heliocare are needed.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Bhupesh Vasisht, MD · Answer

No...do not do any type of lasers or IPL that affect the pigment during the summer months.  Its not that you can't..it more that it won't be effective so you would be wasting time and money. The bigger issue is that you are asian which makes this very tricky in my opinion.  There are only a few laser options for you and make sure your doctor is well versed in that.  Hope this helps.  Good luckDr Vasisht

Barry M. Weintraub, MD, FACS · Answer

It depends on what type of laser treatment you are referring to, and
what skin condition you are trying to correct. Laser treatments are a wonderful way to deal with textural issues and pigment issues. Blotchy skin can be made even (in regard to color), and rough/wrinkly skin can be made smooth.  Since you mentioned pigmentation
creams and also the fact that you are of Asian decent, it may be necessary to
pre-treat with a mild Retin A and Hydro-Quinone for 4-6 weeks prior
to laser procedure. You will also have to practice responsible sun
exposure before and after. My best advice is to schedule an
appointment for a thorough evaluation before deciding if a
laser treatment is the right choice for you.

Is summer okay to have laser treatment?

Answers (5)

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