30 seconds of direct sun exposure directly after fraxel treatment on the way to car?

Question

This is probably overkill, but leaving the doctor's office after getting my fraxel treatment, I unexpectedly had about 30 seconds to one minute of direct sun exposure at 2pm on my face on my way to the car. Tried blocking with my hand with mild success. Should I expect hyperpigmentation or other negative effects? I plan to never go in the sun ever again after this! Thanks!

William Groff, DO · Answer

I think it's wonderful that your venture into self-care with Fraxel has made you so aware of the dangers of sun exposure and so diligent about avoiding it. This is an additional good outcome to the benefits you'll receive from your rejuvenation. Although the sun can indeed damage the skin in brief periods if it is very intense, between the limited amount of time it took to get to your car and your shading your face, I think you'll be fine. However, please remember that even in the car your skin is exposed to UVA and UVB rays. So please wear sunscreen even when indoors or driving and be sure to pack a hat so that you can walk the parking lot confident that your skin is protected. Please consult your board-certified dermatologist to get more tips on how to protect your skin from sun exposure.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

From your description, it is very unlikely that you will have hyperpigmentation after your brief exposure. Keep in mind, this type of laser takes a series of treatments and with usually needs a combination approach to have the best results. I recommend lasers with microneedling and prp to improve outcomes. Also, in my practice we are very particular about pre and post skin care with patients.  This is customized to the persons skin type and condition treated. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. There is nothing to
worry about as this short duration to sun exposure would not cause
hyperpigmentation or have any effects on your treatment. Just make sure to
avoid long term sun exposure. All the best!

Margaret Weiss, MD · Answer

I doubt that a few seconds of sun exposure undid any of the benefits of your Fraxel treatment. However, you are correct to be so concerned about the effects of the sun. In very sunny climates, just a few minutes in the sun can indeed burn and damage your skin. Please remember to wear sunscreen every day – whether indoors or out. Sunlight's UVA and UVB rays can pass through windows in your car, office and home. Please see a board-certified dermatologist to be sure you have adequate sun protection.

Lenore Sikorski, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would not worry about this sun exposure interfering with the results of your Fraxel. The exposure was very minimal and should not have a negative impact on your results. Just make sure you follow your post care instructions from your provider.

30 seconds of direct sun exposure directly after fraxel treatment on the way to car?

Answers (5)