If you’ve been thinking about tackling uneven skin tone, fine lines, or sun damage, fall and winter are the perfect seasons to take the plunge with laser treatments. Many dermatologists and skin experts recommend scheduling laser facials during the cooler months, and there’s a good reason for it.
In the summer, UV rays are at their peak, which can increase the risk of complications like sun damage when undergoing laser treatments. But during the fall and winter, when sun exposure is naturally lower, your skin has the ideal conditions to heal and thrive after laser sessions.
Curious why colder months are a game-changer for your skin? Let’s dive into how laser facials work, what they can do for you, and why now is the time to invest in your skin’s future.
What’s the Link Between Laser Procedures and the Sun?
Laser treatments are not just any procedure you can have at any time. Understandably, laser treatment involves exposing the upper layers of the skin to the intense energy of laser light. This stimulates collagen production and helps improve skin texture and tone for a better overall appearance.
However, when the sun’s rays containing UV burst into skin layers that lasers have already damaged, it could lead to pigmentary disorders such as dark spots or hyperpigmentation. This is the reason it is always essential to avoid the direct rays of the sun on the treated areas after laser treatments.
Thus, it’s mandatory to wear high-SPF sunscreen and clothes to protect the skin from direct sun exposure and avoid any damage caused by the sun to the skin when involved in ongoing procedures. This is why many people consider the fall and winter months ideal for laser treatments, as there is less exposure to sunlight.
Besides this, the sunshine factor is primarily related to the delay in the skin’s recovery process once the patient has undergone a laser treatment. The reason is that the skin takes time to renew itself, and the direct sun hinders this process by creating inflammation and irritation on the skin’s surface.
Optimal Humidity for Healing the Skin
Frequent sweetening, high temperatures, and humidity levels slow down the skin’s healing process. This can happen after laser treatment, especially for people who live in a warm and humid environment.
High heat and humidity decrease the rate at which the skin recovers from a procedure. It also increases the production of sebum (oil) on our skin, leading to clogged pores and potential acne breakouts. When undergoing laser treatments, it’s essential to maintain an optimal humidity level in your surroundings.
Experts recommend keeping humidity levels between 40-60% as this helps speed up the healing process by allowing adequate moisture retention in the treated area without causing any excess sweating or oil production.
That’s what we usually experience during cooler months, when humidity levels tend to be lower than during the summer. This is also why many people consider the fall and winter months ideal for laser treatments.
Low or No Risks of Tanning
When the skin has just undergone laser treatment, it becomes highly sensitive to UV rays. Hyperpigmentation may result from exposing oneself to the sun and can even reverse the effects of this procedure.
Generally speaking, it is best to avoid direct sun exposure for a minimum of two weeks following a laser procedure. When there is no chance of avoiding the sun, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every few hours as long as you are in the sun.
Of course, this process is much easier during the colder periods of the year when the days are shorter and sun exposure is minimal. In this season, staying indoors or covering up whenever going outside is easier. This reduces the risks of tanning and keeps your skin protected while it heals from laser procedures.
Tan and laser treatments do not combine well. If one has a tan, one should let it fade before undergoing any laser treatment. This is also quite important for a person who uses self-tanning products or tanning beds very frequently.
Enough Time to Perform Repetitive Procedures
Most laser treatments require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results. For example, hair removal typically requires 6-8 sessions, while skin rejuvenation may require up to 4 sessions.
If you must undergo repetitive procedures, the fall and winter months are perfect. With longer nights and cooler temperatures, finding time for appointments is easier without worrying about fitting them in between summer vacations or outdoor activities.
Besides, we usually want to look cool at warmer weather events, which makes fall and winter the perfect time to undergo laser procedures since you’ll have enough time for healing and recovery before summer.
We often want to stay inside in those cool, dark months and snuggle into our cozy blankets. It can also be a great time to pamper yourself with laser treatments and give your skin a break from harsh outdoor elements.
And when it’s summer, and you need to be outside, you won’t have to worry about post-procedure sensitivity or avoiding the sun. You’ll already have glowing, healthy skin that’s ready for those outdoor adventures.
A Good Opportunity to Heal the Skin After Summer Sun Damage
While we normally discuss preventive laser procedures in these seasons, fall and winter do indeed provide a good season for treating sun damage caused during the summer.
Most of us bid farewell to the summer seasons with sun-damaged skin, from sunburn to pigmentation to fine lines. During the cooler months, it’s a great time to treat this form of damage using laser procedures.
For example, suppose you’ve been out in the sun all summer, leaving your skin thirsty and dehydrated. In that case, laser treatment may help stimulate collagen production, which leaves your skin much smoother and healthier. Lasers can also address dark spots or uneven pigmentation caused by prolonged sun exposure.
Moreover, laser treatments can improve the tightening and firming of the skin, reducing all the lines and wrinkles associated with sun damage. As we age, our skin naturally tends to become thin and cause wrinkles and this procedure becomes more necessary.
So, before you begin planning your next summer beach vacation or outdoor adventure, take advantage of the cooler months to repair sun damage and give your skin a fresh start.
Contact Aesthetic MdR to learn more about the laser treatments that are provided.
Which Laser Procedures Are Best During Fall and Winter?
Luckily, lasers have a series of positive side effects. They have many benefits, such as tightening skin, targeting specific sun pigmentation, or even eliminating fine lines and wrinkles. However, there are different types of lasers, each with its own unique purpose: ablative, non-ablative, fractionated, and fractional.
- Ablative lasers work by removing the top layer of damaged skin to reveal new, healthy skin. This is ideal for more severe sun damage, such as deep wrinkles or scars.
- Non-ablative lasers work by penetrating deeper into the skin without damaging the surface. This type of laser effectively targets pigmentation and stimulates collagen production.
- Fractionated lasers use tiny beams of light to target small areas of the skin, leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. This promotes faster healing and effectively treats both sun damage and fine lines.
- Fractional lasers combine the benefits of ablative and non-ablative lasers by using a combination of intense light and heat to target specific areas of the skin. They’re great for treating multiple concerns, such as wrinkles, pigmentation, and overall skin rejuvenation.
Many experts recommend opting for fractional or fractionated laser treatments during fall and winter because they offer shorter recovery times compared to ablative lasers. With cooler temperatures and less sun exposure during these seasons, there is less chance of irritation or complications from the treatment. Furthermore, since our schedules are less busy during fall and winter, it’s a perfect time to take the necessary downtime for ablative or non-ablative laser treatments.
It’s important to note that while lasers can be highly effective, they also carry potential risks. Before undergoing any treatment, it’s crucial to do thorough research on the type of laser and the credentials of the provider. Additionally, it’s important to follow post-treatment care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Which Laser Procedures Can You Choose in Aesthetic MdR?
Laser equipment and procedures differ significantly from clinic to clinic. It’s of the utmost importance to choose a reputable clinic such as Aesthetic MdR, where experienced and licensed professionals use state-of-the-art laser technology.
When performing laser procedures, a fair share of the effectiveness depends on the equipment, which should be able to provide high-quality treatment with minimal complications. If you opt for a clinic that uses FDA-approved lasers, you can be confident in the safety and effectiveness of your treatment.
Also, choosing a clinic with skilled practitioners is crucial if you want results that look natural and not overly dramatic. Experienced professionals will have the necessary knowledge and expertise to tailor the treatment to your specific needs and desired outcomes.
Aesthetic MdR offers laser procedures performed by board-certified plastic surgeons and licensed aestheticians. They offer a variety of laser treatments, including skin resurfacing, hair removal, scar reduction, and tattoo removal.
You can feel confident in the safety and effectiveness of these procedures at Aesthetic MdR, as they use advanced laser technology, such as Fraxel Dual Laser and Cutera Excel V Laser. These lasers are known for their precision and ability to target specific areas without damaging surrounding tissues.
Some services presented in more detail are mentioned below.
Forever Clear
Forever Clear BBL is a highly effective laser treatment designed to target and clear acne at its source. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology penetrates deep into the skin to eliminate bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing.
The process is quick, taking only about 15 minutes, and involves three precise steps: first, blue BBL light tackles acne-causing bacteria; next, yellow BBL light calms redness and inflammation; and finally, SkinTyte II infrared light boosts the skin’s natural recovery. This comprehensive approach helps clear existing acne and revitalizes the skin, making it smoother and healthier.
Forever Young
Aesthetic MdR’s “Forever Young BBL” is a non-surgical laser treatment meant to rejuvenate the skin and regenerate the appearance of aging. It uses innovative BroadBand Light technology to target skin imperfections common with aging, such as age spots, sun damage, redness, and fine lines. This treatment works by stimulating collagen to regenerate and helping the skin regenerate skin cells for a fresher, more youthful glow over time.
The treatment is designed to be as noninvasive as possible, allowing individuals to continue working without interruption. This makes it an appealing option for people seeking cosmetic improvements without surgery. Additionally, it suits a wide range of skin types and conditions, and professionals can tailor it to address specific skin concerns.
Contour TRL
The Contour TRL (Tunable Resurfacing Laser) is an advanced skin resurfacing treatment designed to address deep wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation issues, and overall skin texture. Utilizing the Erbium YAG laser, this treatment effectively removes damaged skin layers and stimulates collagen production for a rejuvenated, youthful appearance. Unlike traditional CO2 lasers, Contour TRL offers precise control over the depth of ablation, allowing it to target various skin imperfections without excessive downtime.
Contour TRL can be customized to meet individual skin needs, making it suitable for treating sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth, which are often more prone to aging. While the procedure typically involves some recovery time—redness and peeling can persist for up to two weeks—patients can expect significant skin tone, texture, and elasticity improvements. One to two sessions are usually recommended for optimal results, depending on the extent of skin damage and the patient’s aesthetic goals.
HALO
Aesthetic MDR offers HALO, a state-of-the-art skin rejuvenation treatment featuring the world’s first hybrid fractional laser. Unlike other lasers that use either ablative or non-ablative wavelengths, HALO can possess both attributes. In its dual-action process, it targets the different layers of the skin simultaneously, promoting deep tissue healing with collagen production while treating the surface for such skin imperfections as sun damage and blotchy skin tone. The result is much-improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and a fresh new look for youth.
HALO treats everything from wrinkles, enlarged pores, acne scars, and even pigmentation. Applications on the face, neck, décolletage, and other areas of the body create an overall rejuvenation of the skin. It has generally been associated with very minimal discomfort due to a novelty cooling mechanism incorporated with customized energy delivery, which is very popular for those seeking noticeable results with relatively short recovery times.
BBL
BBL (BroadBand Light) therapy at Aesthetic MdR in Marina del Rey is a versatile laser treatment designed to address various skin concerns by using advanced light technology. This non-invasive procedure can help improve skin tone, texture, and clarity, making it a popular choice for those looking to rejuvenate their complexion without extensive downtime. BBL treatment targets pigmentation issues, such as age spots, sun damage, redness from rosacea, and broken capillaries. It delivers intense pulsed light energy to the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting a more youthful appearance.
One of the unique aspects of BBL at Aesthetic MdR is its ability to be customized to the individual’s skin type and concerns. This adaptability ensures that each patient receives targeted treatment, maximizing results while minimizing side effects. The procedure is relatively quick, with sessions typically lasting around 15-30 minutes, depending on the area being treated, and most patients experience little to no discomfort.
Forever Bare Laser Hair Removal
Forever Bare BBL laser hair removal at Aesthetic MdR is the ultimate solution for long-term hair reduction. This treatment features the most advanced BroadBand Light technology to target unwanted hair across a wide range of skin types effectively.
Unlike waxing or shaving, Forever Bare is more permanent and less painful, reducing ongoing maintenance. The areas that can be treated are nearly limitless, providing silkier, hair-free skin in fewer treatments. It promises effective results in a minimally invasive manner and the convenience of an in-office experience.
Profractional
Lastly, here is a non-surgical option aimed at improving skin texture and tone and reducing the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and sun damage. The procedure involves creating tiny channels in the skin with a laser, stimulating the body’s natural healing response to promote collagen production. This process helps to rejuvenate the skin, making it look smoother and more youthful.
Recovery time is relatively short compared to other laser treatments, with most patients experiencing mild redness and swelling for a few days. The treatment is customizable based on the individual’s skin type and specific concerns, making it a versatile choice for those seeking significant skin improvement without surgery.
Can I Undergo Different Laser Treatments at the Same Time?
Yes, you can undergo different laser treatments simultaneously, depending on your specific needs and the recommendation of your aesthetic provider. However, to ensure safety and effectiveness, it is essential to consult with a trained professional before undergoing multiple procedures simultaneously.
Some laser treatments may complement each other and provide better results when combined. For example, combining IPL and Forever Bare can target both pigmentation issues and hair removal in one session. Your provider will assess your skin concerns and recommend the best action for optimal results.
It is also crucial to remember that undergoing multiple laser treatments at once may increase the risk of side effects or longer recovery time. It is essential to follow post-treatment care instructions carefully and communicate any concerns or issues with your provider.
Which Laser Treatments Are Best If I Need Prophylactic Care?
Laser treatments are beneficial in prophylactic care because they address specific skin concerns and stimulate collagen production, which is very helpful in maintaining youthfulness and glow. The following are among the best laser treatments for prophylactic care.
- IPL—Intense Pulsed Light: It works on pigmentation, including sunspots, age spots, and freckles. Moreover, it stimulates collagen production to give your skin a fine finish.
- Clear + Brilliant: A very non-aggressive and gentle laser treatment fits the younger generation. It helps avoid the signs of aging, including fine lines and skin texture.
- Laser Genesis is a noninvasive treatment that enhances general skin texture and tone while reducing redness and the size of pores.
Consulting a professional aesthetic provider will properly help determine the choice of laser treatment according to your needs and concerns. Moreover, they can give you your personalized prophylactic care treatment plan for maintaining healthy, young-looking skin.
Recovery Period
It’s individual for each procedure and patient, but most laser treatments have minimal downtime. Some may experience mild redness or swelling immediately after the treatment, which typically subsides within a few hours. It is essential to follow post-treatment care instructions given by your provider to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Typically, after you undergo a laser procedure, your aesthetician will recommend avoiding excessive sun exposure and using sunscreen to protect the treated area from UV damage. You should ideally also get personalized skincare recommendations after a specific laser treatment.
Maintaining Results
Prophylactic care does not end with one laser treatment. It is crucial to continue caring for your skin to maintain the results achieved. This includes following a consistent skincare routine, getting regular facials, and protecting your skin from UV damage. Additionally, avoiding harmful lifestyle habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to maintaining healthy skin.
It is also essential to remember that our skin’s needs change over time, so your prophylactic care routine may need to be adjusted accordingly. Regular consultations with an aesthetic provider can help monitor any changes in your skin and provide personalized recommendations for continued maintenance.
Conclusion
Laser season is a great time to start thinking about procedures that are not as convenient during the summer. With proper planning and aftercare, laser treatments can effectively address various skin concerns and provide long-lasting results. Remember to consult with a trusted aesthetic provider to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs and concerns. Take care of your skin, and it will thank you for years!
