Laser Season Starts Now: Your Summer Skin Timeline

If you’re considering a laser treatment, consider this your sign to start planning. Late winter into early spring are when savvy patients begin resurfacing treatments, correct lingering pigment, and kick off laser hair removal so results are visible by summer. The timing is strategic; many lasers require a series of sessions or a period of strict sun protection, so starting now allows you to complete treatments and heal properly before peak UV season.

By booking your treatment in March or April, your results should peak by summer — without sacrificing sun plans. Below, we’ll break down which treatments require strict sun avoidance and downtime planning, and which newer technologies offer more flexibility with less disruption.

What laser treatments should you do before summer?

Most professionals will recommend you schedule any laser treatments ahead of summer, if possible. Some laser treatments require several sessions to see visible results and others can temporarily increase photosensitivity, leaving skin more vulnerable to sun exposure during the healing process. In particular, AEDIT founder and board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Kennedy recommends, “Starting laser hair removal for long-term smoothness, IPL to correct pigmentation and sun damage, and fractional resurfacing to improve texture and stimulate collagen. Beginning treatment early allows us to maximize results while minimizing sun-related risks.”

When is the best time to start laser treatments?

The best time for laser treatments depends on the type of laser treatment you’re considering. For laser hair removal timing, starting in late fall is ideal since it typically requires six to eight sessions spaced about four to six weeks apart, depending on the treatment area and your hair growth cycle. Most treatment plans span six to nine months from start to finish, although many patients notice meaningful reduction after three sessions. Starting in winter can also work well, giving you enough runway to see smoother results by the time you’re showing more skin.

For resurfacing lasers and IPL, cooler months are generally preferred because skin is more covered and incidental sun exposure is lower. Reduced UV levels help decrease the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and make the recovery process easier to manage.

How many laser sessions do you need to see results?

• Laser Hair Removal: Most patients need six to eight sessions spaced about four to six weeks apart to achieve significant, long-term hair reduction. Many people notice slower regrowth and patchier hair after two to three sessions, with optimal results developing over several months.
• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): For sun spots, redness, and uneven tone, a series of three to five treatments spaced about three to four weeks apart is common. Some pigment may darken and flake off after a single session, but cumulative treatments deliver more even, longer-lasting improvement.
• Non-Ablative Fractional Lasers: Most patients undergo three to five sessions spaced four to six weeks apart. Subtle improvement may appear after the first treatment, but results build progressively as collagen remodeling continues over several months.
• Ablative Fractional Laser: More aggressive resurfacing treatments, such as fractional CO2 or Er, often require only one session for noticeable improvement in wrinkles, scars, or advanced sun damage. However, some patients choose a second treatment depending on the severity of concern and desired outcome.

Can you get laser resurfacing in summer?

Yes, but you’ll want to take extra precautions. Many resurfacing treatments increase photosensitivity and require strict sun avoidance during the healing period; even incidental sun exposure can cause unwanted side effects like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly for patients with medium to deeper skin tones.

That said, not all lasers are equally aggressive. “Non-ablative fractional treatments with minimal downtime are generally safe during the summer months when paired with diligent sun protection — including broad-spectrum SPF, protective clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure. However, I typically recommend holding off on more aggressive treatments such as ablative CO₂ laser resurfacing, Er laser resurfacing, or deep fully ablative fractional resurfacing until a time of year when patients can more easily and consistently avoid sun exposure,” says Dr. Kennedy.

How much sun exposure should you avoid after a laser treatment?

The exact timeline depends on the device used. Laser hair removal typically requires avoiding sun exposure for about two weeks before and after each session. More intensive treatments, like fractional resurfacing, may call for strict sun avoidance for at least two to four weeks post-procedure, sometimes longer depending on the depth of treatment and your skin tone. Even after the visible redness fades, skin can remain more sensitive to UV damage. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, protective clothing, and limiting peak sun hours are essential to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation and protect your results.

Is an IPL treatment safe before sun exposure?

IPL is best performed when sun exposure can be limited both before and after treatment. Because IPL targets pigment, recently tanned or sunburned skin increases the risk of burns, blistering, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Most providers recommend avoiding direct sun exposure and self-tanner for at least two weeks before treatment and remaining diligent about sun protection for two to four weeks afterward.

How long is laser downtime?

Laser downtime varies significantly depending on the type and intensity of the treatment. Laser hair removal and most IPL sessions involve minimal downtime. You might experience mild redness or slight swelling, but it typically resolves within a few hours to a day. Fractional non-ablative lasers usually involve a few days of redness, swelling, and a sandpaper-like texture as the skin renews. More aggressive ablative resurfacing treatments, such as fractional CO2, can require seven to ten days of social downtime, followed by several weeks of residual pinkness as the skin continues to heal.

What laser is best for sun damage?

The best laser for sun damage depends on the type and severity of discoloration you’re looking to treat. For mild to moderate sun spots, redness, and uneven tone, IPL is often a first-line option. It targets excess pigment and vascular changes with minimal downtime, making it a popular choice for overall brightening. For more advanced sun damage (e.g. texture changes and fine lines), fractional non-ablative lasers can be more effective. These devices stimulate collagen while breaking up pigment, improving both tone and skin quality. In cases of deeper wrinkles or significant photodamage, ablative fractional lasers may deliver more dramatic results, though they require greater downtime. A qualified professional should be able to help determine which type of laser is best for your skin’s needs.

How soon before vacation can you get laser treatment?

If you’re thinking about getting a laser treatment before vacation, timing will really depend on the treatment type and your healing history. For less intensive lasers (e.g. laser hair removal, IPL, or non-ablative fractional lasers), it’s generally best to allow at least two weeks before departure. This gives any redness or swelling time to resolve and ensures your skin is not freshly sensitized before increased sun exposure. For more aggressive treatments (e.g. ablative fractional lasers), plan for at least three to four weeks of recovery before a beach vacation or prolonged outdoor time.

Does laser treatment help with pigmentation?

Yes, laser treatments can be highly effective for certain types of pigmentation. Pigmentation lasers like IPL, Q-switched lasers, and picosecond lasers target excess melanin in the skin, breaking up pigment so it can gradually fade. These treatments are commonly used for sun spots, age spots, freckles, and some forms of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Many patients see visible brightening after one session, though a series is often recommended for more complete clearance.

That said, not all pigmentation responds the same way. Conditions like melasma can be more complex and may worsen with excessive heat if not carefully selected and performed. A proper diagnosis is essential to determine which device and treatment plan will deliver safe, effective results.

What is the best laser for acne scars?

The best laser for acne scars depends on the type and severity of scarring, as well as your skin tone and tolerance for downtime. In general, fractional resurfacing lasers are considered the most effective category for improving texture and stimulating collagen remodeling.

Ablative fractional lasers, such as fractional CO2 or Er, are often recommended for deeper boxcar or ice-pick scars. These treatments create controlled micro-injuries in the skin to trigger significant collagen production and can deliver noticeable improvement in one session, though recovery is more involved. Non-ablative fractional lasers are a gentler alternative for mild to moderate scarring, requiring multiple sessions with less downtime.

Are lasers safe for darker skin tones?

Laser treatments can be safe for darker skin tones, but device selection and provider expertise are critical. Because melanin absorbs laser energy, there is a higher risk of complications such as burns, blistering, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation if the wrong wavelength or settings are used. For this reason, not all lasers are appropriate for every skin tone.

Dr. Kennedy elaborates, “Longer-wavelength devices, such as Nd lasers, are generally safer for patients with deeper skin tones because they bypass more surface pigment and target deeper structures. Using conservative settings, along with proper pre- and post-treatment care and strict sun protection, further reduces the risk of complications. When performed by an experienced provider who understands how to appropriately adjust treatment parameters, many laser procedures can be performed safely and effectively across a wide range of skin tones.”

How long do laser results last?

Results depend on the treatment type and the condition being addressed. Laser hair removal can deliver long-term hair reduction, with many patients experiencing permanent reduction after completing a full series. That said, hormonal changes or new hair growth cycles may require occasional maintenance treatments over time.

For pigment and sun damage treated with IPL or resurfacing lasers, results can last for years, especially with diligent sun protection. However, lasers cannot stop ongoing UV exposure or the natural aging process. Collagen-stimulating treatments, such as fractional lasers, can improve skin texture and firmness for several years, but maintenance sessions and consistent skincare help prolong results. Ultimately, lifestyle factors, sun habits, and individual biology all influence longevity.

Can you wear makeup after laser treatment?

After laser hair removal or IPL, most patients can apply makeup the next day, provided there is no blistering or significant irritation. It’s best to use gentle, non-comedogenic products and avoid heavy friction during application. For fractional resurfacing treatments, especially ablative procedures, makeup should be avoided until the skin has fully healed; this can take about five to seven days for many non-ablative treatments and closer to seven to ten days or longer for ablative lasers. Applying makeup too soon can increase irritation or infection risk. Your provider will give specific guidance based on the depth of treatment and your recovery progress.

What happens if you get sun after laser?

Sun exposure after laser treatment can increase the risk of complications and compromise results. Since the skin is more sensitive to UV radiation post-treatment, even brief exposure can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in medium to deeper skin tones. In more severe cases, it can lead to prolonged redness, blistering, or uneven healing. We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to maintain strict sun protection, including daily broad-spectrum SPF and physical barriers like hats and clothing, during the healing phase.