How long after having Fraxel is it safe to have sun exposure?

Question

I will be going to Hawaii 2 months after a fraxel treatment. Yes, I will wear sunscreen. However, sunscreen can wear off during the day or while swimming so I want to be 100% safe. And can sun exposure after fraxel seriously harm/discolor my skin?

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Fraxel is a laser skin rejuvenation treatment that resurfaces your outer skin, erasing imperfections. It also encourages the production of collagen, a protein found in connective tissue.The result is clearly visible lines, folds and wrinkles. Fraxel laser skin rejuvenation is a non-invasive technique that affects only about 20 percent of the facial skin exposed to it. The most common side effects of Fraxel laser treatment are swelling and skin redness, which should subside within a couple of days. Other temporary side effects may include minor itching, dry skin, peeling or flaking, and a bronzed skin appearance. The risk of infection or scarring is very limited. You should stay out of the sun 2-4 weeks.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I tell all my patients to avoid direct sun exposure for 2-4 weeks for nonablative and 3-6 months for ablative lasering.  You put yourself at risk for scar and pigmentation changes.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. There are different depths of treatment with this laser that require different amounts of down time from the sun. Consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeons office for treatment options and aftercare.

Susan M. Stuart, MD · Answer

It's OK to embark
on a beach vacation 2 months after Fraxel, but, as you mentioned, it's still
important to take precautions to prevent further damage to your skin. I
recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 with a physical
blocker (think zinc oxide rather than oxybenzone). Be sure to reapply every
couple of hours, especially if you've been swimming or sweating. I recommend
asking the dermatologist where you're getting your Fraxel treatment for
sunscreen advice, because he or she likely has a top-quality product at hand.
If you're relaxing on the beach or by the pool, stay under an umbrella or
invest in a wide-brimmed hat, which thankfully are in style right now. And try
to stay indoors or at least in the shade in the middle of the day, when the
sun's rays are at their most intense. With the right precautions, you should
have no problem preserving your beautiful results. Have fun and be safe!

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I recommend that my patients avoid sun exposure for three months after Fraxel treatment.  Even after this time period, a patient can damage the skin because of sun exposure.  Please use SP30 or above with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

How long after having Fraxel is it safe to have sun exposure?

Answers (7)

Answer: Take Precautions on Vacation

Answer: Take Precautions on Vacation

Answer: Fraxel

Answer: Fraxel

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How long after having Fraxel is it safe to have sun exposure?

Answers (7)

Answer: Take Precautions on Vacation

Answer: Take Precautions on Vacation

Answer: Fraxel

Answer: Fraxel

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.