At Phases Skin Care & Laser Center, we know that summer is a time when you want to look and feel your best—whether you’re headed on vacation, attending events, or just enjoying some well-earned sunshine. But when it comes to aesthetic treatments, especially laser services, not all options are summer-friendly.
Laser technology offers transformative results for skin texture, pigmentation, and tone—but some treatments require avoidance of sun exposure, which can be difficult in summer months. So what can you safely schedule during the warmer months, and what’s better saved for fall and winter? Our expert team is breaking it down for you here.
Why Sun Exposure Matters
Laser treatments work by using focused light energy to target specific skin concerns like wrinkles, dark spots, and sun damage. The most common types of lasers are ablative lasers (removes the top layer of skin and part of the underlying layer), non-ablative lasers (heat the deeper layers of the skin without damaging the surface), and fractional lasers (can be ablative or non-ablative and work by treating tiny, targeted zones of the skin).
After a laser session, your skin is often more sensitive to sunlight—and increased exposure can heighten the risk of hyperpigmentation, irritation, or compromised results. That doesn’t mean you have to avoid laser treatments altogether during the summer—it simply means choosing the right treatment for the season, following proper aftercare, and protecting your skin with medical-grade SPF.
✅ Safe Laser Treatments for Summer
Not all lasers are created equal. Some are gentler and have minimal downtime, making them suitable for sunnier seasons and more active lifestyles. Here are our top picks that can be safely scheduled during the summer months:
- Laser Genesis:
- A gentle, non-ablative laser that gently heats the upper dermis to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin quality – with no downtime or increased sun sensitivity.
- Ulthera (Ultherapy®):
- Uses focused ultrasound, instead of a laser, to tighten skin without affecting pigmentation or causing photosensitivity. Safe year-round, including summer.
- MOXI®:
- This non-ablative, mild, fractional laser targets early signs of sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and rough texture by gently stimulating collagen and resurfacing the skin—without damaging the outer layer. It’s safe for all skin types and tones and is ideal for patients looking for light correction, maintenance, or prevention. Safe in summer with diligent sun protection.
- ClearSilk Laser:
- ClearSilk is a gentle, non-ablative laser treatment that produces buildable results. Skin continues to improve with each treatment. ClearSilk treats redness, rosacea, fine lines, wrinkles, acne, acne, scars, and pigment and improves skin’s overall appearance with no downtime.
What to Postpone Until Fall or Winter
While summer has its safe options, some laser treatments are best scheduled when sun exposure is minimal. These treatments often involve more aggressive resurfacing or increased sensitivity post-treatment, which makes them better suited to the cooler, lower-UV months.
- HALO®:
- A game-changer in skin resurfacing, combining ablative and non-ablative wavelengths for dramatic results in tone, texture, and pigmentation, however, this hybrid fractional laser causes redness and peeling, so there is a high risk of unwanted pigmentation if treated skin is exposed to sun post-treatment.
- Profractional Laser Resurfacing:
- Works by removing micro-columns of tissue in the skin, leaving surrounding areas of skin untreated. This promotes rapid healing and the regeneration of collagen through your body’s natural processes. Due to longer downtime and photosensitivity, we recommend scheduling this treatment in cooler months.
How to Protect Your Skin Post-Treatment
No matter if the treatment you choose is safe for summer or not, sun protection is key—especially after laser services. At Phases, we carry a curated selection of medical-grade sunscreens designed to shield your skin without clogging pores or disrupting your results.
A few of our favorites include:
- SkinMedica Essential Defense Mineral SPF 35
- Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36
- Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50
We also recommend wearing a wide-brimmed hat, avoiding peak sun hours, and staying hydrated to support optimal skin healing and results.
Plan Smart, Glow All Year
The best approach to aesthetic treatments is one that aligns with your lifestyle, goals, and the season. At Phases Skin Care & Laser Center, our team is here to guide you through the options and ensure you get safe, effective, and beautiful results—no matter the time of year.
Whether you’re looking to treat dark spots, boost collagen, or simply glow a little brighter for summer, we’ll help you choose the right path and timing. Ready to schedule your summer-safe laser treatment? Call us at 317-848-0001 or go online to request a consultation or appointment.
