Welcome to the sun-kissed days of summer, where we’re all eager to flaunt our best skin while basking in the glorious sunshine! But wait—before you jump into any laser treatments to get that flawless glow, there’s a sizzling hot topic you need to be in the know about: the do’s and don’ts of summer-safe laser treatments. We turned to the fabulous Dr. Saami Khalifian, a double board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, to give us the lowdown.
Dr. Saami Khalifian, trained at the prestigious Johns Hopkins and Harvard, brings a powerhouse of scientific expertise to his practice at SOM Aesthetics in sunny Encinitas, CA. Not only does he offer state-of-the-art patient care, but his clinic is also a hub for groundbreaking clinical research and an advanced aesthetic academy training program. With Dr. Khalifian, you’re in the hands of a true skincare maestro who blends top-notch science with cutting-edge beauty treatments. So, let’s dive into the essentials of keeping your skin safe and stunning all summer long!
Is it safe to undergo laser treatments during the summer?
Yes, it is safe to undergo certain laser treatments during the summer, but with specific precautions. At SOM Aesthetics, we often recommend treatments like Sciton’s MOXI and Clearsilk, which are designed to be safe and effective even in the sunnier months. These lasers target superficial skin layers and are less likely to cause complications compared to deeper lasers. However, it’s crucial to follow strict sun protection protocols before and after treatment to maximize safety and results.
How does sun exposure affect laser treatments?
Sun exposure can significantly impact the safety and efficacy of laser treatments. Excessive sun exposure increases the risk of complications such as hyperpigmentation, burns, and prolonged healing times. It can also diminish the effectiveness of certain treatments. We advise our patients to avoid direct sun exposure and use broad-spectrum sunscreen diligently before and after their laser sessions. Protective measures help ensure the skin is in the best possible condition for treatment and recovery.
What aftercare steps are necessary post-treatment?
Post-treatment care is crucial for optimal results and includes several key steps. First, patients should apply a soothing moisturizer to aid in the healing process and reduce redness or irritation. We occasionally apply exosomes post-treatment, which are stem cell-derived signals that carry the instructions for target cells to heal faster and provide more robust results. Sun protection using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is essential. Avoiding direct sun exposure, hot water, and strenuous activities that cause sweating will help minimize risks, particularly immediately after treatment. We also recommend gentle skincare routines, avoiding exfoliants or harsh products until the skin fully recovers.
Should one use sunscreen after the treatment?
Absolutely, using sunscreen is vital everyday and especially after laser treatments. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays that can cause damage and pigmentation changes in the treated areas. We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, applied generously and regularly throughout the day. This not only safeguards the skin during the healing process but also helps maintain the results of the treatment, ensuring long-term skin health and radiance. Even with the use of sunscreen we still recommend sun avoidance post-laser, whenever possible.
Laser Treatments that are safe for the summer
MOXI:
How it works:
MOXI is a gentle, fractionated laser used to treat superficial skin conditions such as sun damage, brown spots, and visible signs of aging. MOXI creates microscopic thermal treatment zones that selectively target water within the upper skin layers. This stimulates skin renewal and revitalization as the treated skin slowly sloughs off, without scarring, to reveal beautiful glowing skin underneath.
Benefits:
MOXI treats sun damage and improves the overall appearance of the skin by minimizing brown spots and pre-cancerous lesions (actinic keratoses) with minimal downtime. It is safe for darker and tanned skin.
Expected downtime and recovery:
Patients can typically resume activities the same day. Some may experience redness, swelling, and darkening of brown spots for 1-3 days. A “coffee-ground” texture might last up to a week but is easily concealable. These “coffee-grounds” are known as MENDs (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris) and are the visible signs of unwanted pigmentation sloughing off to reveal new, healthy skin.
Safety Tips and Best Practices:
Despite its safety in darker skin, diligent sun protection and moisturization post-treatment are crucial. We use exosomes post-treatment for better results and faster recovery. Avoid retinoids and exfoliants for several days before and after treatment. Botox should not be done on the same day but fillers are safe. For melasma, your provider should use low settings to avoid exacerbation.
Recommended frequency:
Monthly treatments for 3-4 months, depending on the treatment goals.
Best candidates and combination with ClearSilk:
Ideal for those wanting gradual skin revitalization with minimal downtime. Combining MOXI with ClearSilk enhances benefits, addressing pigmentation, fine lines, redness, and skin radiance. These treatments are particularly useful during summer due to their safety profiles.
How it works:
ClearSilk heats the skin to a tolerable temperature, promoting self-revitalization. This “bulk heating” activates cellular mechanisms to enhance skin appearance.
Benefits:
ClearSilk reduces redness, acne, fine lines, and wrinkles, offering subtle skin tightening when combined with other treatments. It is a versatile laser with significant benefits.
Expected downtime and recovery:
ClearSilk has virtually no downtime. Redness or swelling typically resolves within an hour, and makeup can be applied immediately after. It can also expedite recovery from other treatments, leaving skin with a radiant glow.
Safety Tips and Best Practices:
ClearSilk can be performed on all skin types all year round. Patients should practice sun protection and avoid retinoids a few days before and after treatment. A good skincare regimen with hydrators and antioxidants enhances results.
Recommended frequency:
Monthly treatments, often timed before events for glowing skin. A popular combination is a facial followed by ClearSilk and in-office LED therapy.
Best candidates and combination with MOXI:
Suitable for all skin types, ClearSilk is ideal for those seeking radiant skin, reduced redness, and minimal downtime. When combined with MOXI, it offers enhanced redness reduction, along with synergistic revitalization effects.