In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the winter season has fully set in by the end of January. Even when there is a break from the snow and ice, the freezing temperatures keep us indoors and out of the sunlight. If your summer tan has faded and you are noticing that it has left behind some damaged skin, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to correct the dark spots or fine lines. Using topical treatments to remedy these concerns can be especially difficult in the winter, too — the dry air makes your skin prone to irritation, so harsh products like lightening creams and exfoliators may do more harm than good. For this winter, though, there is a solution — laser skin resurfacing, a treatment that is ideal for the colder, cloudier months and can keep your skin glowing as the seasons change.
Lasers and Sunlight Don’t Mix
All laser treatments — like laser skin resurfacing or laser hair removal — are best-suited for the winter months because lasers increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. That means that after your laser treatment, you’ll be more prone to sunburns and sun damage while your skin takes time to heal and improve. Sun exposure too soon after your treatment can also interfere with your results, and can even delay your healing or cause complications. If you choose laser treatment in the summer, it is much more difficult to stay out of the sun and typically means you’ll need to decline summer plans like beach days or backyard gatherings. The winter, though, gives you the perfect excuse to stay indoors and protect your skin while you recover.
Simplify Your Recovery
Depending on the type of laser resurfacing you want, you will have some redness, swelling and flaking skin for a few days following your procedure. Ablative lasers, for example, are more intensive than other treatments. While your plastic surgeon can adjust their tools to a gentler setting, most clients who receive these treatments prefer to stay at home during the initial stages of their recovery. Non-ablative lasers are much easier on the skin, though depending on your treatment and your skin’s sensitivity you may also want to stay out of the public eye for a day or two after your procedure. Winter not only gives you an excuse to stay indoors and out of the sun, but also to stay indoors and away from other obligations. Holiday long weekends in January and February are perfect for scheduling a laser treatment so you will have time to recover before you return to your normal routine on Monday morning.
Complete Treatment in Time For Summer
Depending on the intensity of your treatments and the extent of your skin concerns, you may need more than one laser treatment to see your optimal results. Since your skin needs time to adjust between your appointments, it can take a few months between your first and last treatments. When you start your laser treatments in the winter, you can be sure that your skin will be ready and recovered by summer when you can reveal your clearer, smoother skin. Just remember to wear plenty of sunblock — when you take good care of your skin following laser resurfacing, your results will last much longer, and you can continue to have young, healthy skin for years to come.
To learn more about laser treatments and other cosmetic procedures available in the Cedar Rapids and Coralville, contact expert plastic surgeon Dr. Andrews today. We are dedicated to helping our clients find the right procedures to meet their needs and exceed their expectations. Call us today at 319-800-6877 to schedule your consultation.