Laser Scar Removal

SPF & Laser Facials: What You Need To Know

How to safely get laser facials during summer

Thinking about getting laser facials this summer? Good news: you absolutely can—as long as you take the right precautions.

Laser facials like Clear + Brilliant are one of the most effective ways to achieve refreshed, glowing skin. This non-invasive treatment improves skin tone and texture, minimizes the appearance of pores, and gives your complexion a radiant boost. And yes, despite popular misconceptions, you can enjoy these benefits even during summer—as long as you stay sun-smart before and after your treatment.

Here’s everything you need to know to safely incorporate laser facials into your summer skincare routine.

When to treat: start before summer’s in full swing

If you’re thinking about laser treatments, the best time to start is right now—before summer reaches its peak. The earlier you begin your treatment series, the better your skin can adjust and heal while UV levels are still moderate. Starting now also gives you a head start on achieving radiant skin before vacation season, wedding season, and all your sun-kissed photo ops.

Clear + Brilliant works best as part of a series, spaced about a month apart. Getting started in spring or early summer ensures your skin will be in peak condition just in time for those long, sunny days ahead.

Pre-treatment tips: avoid the sun two weeks before

One of the most important steps you can take before your appointment is minimizing sun exposure. Laser treatments and sunburns do not mix. In fact, too much sun before a laser facial increases your risk of irritation, hyperpigmentation, and slower healing.

Here’s how to prep:

  • Avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks prior to your treatment.

  • Skip tanning beds, self-tanners, and prolonged outdoor time.

  • If you’re heading outside, wear SPF 30+ and cover up with protective clothing (more on that below).

This pre-treatment buffer gives your skin the chance to reset and reduces your risk of complications. You want your skin to be as calm and neutral as possible when receiving a laser facial.

Post-treatment protocol: sun? not yet

After your Clear + Brilliant treatment, your skin may feel warm, slightly pink, or sensitive to the touch—think of it like a mild sunburn. This is totally normal and part of the process as your skin begins to rejuvenate from within.

However, this also means your skin is temporarily more vulnerable to UV damage. To protect your results and avoid post-inflammatory pigmentation, it’s essential to stay out of the sun for at least three days following your treatment.

During this time, avoid:

  • Outdoor workouts or sunbathing

  • Pools, saunas, and hot tubs

  • Any exfoliating skincare products

Let your skin recover in a calm, shaded environment, and you’ll be rewarded with that signature Clear + Brilliant glow.

Staying protected: your summer skin shield

Once you’re past the critical recovery window, ongoing sun protection becomes your skin’s best friend. Whether you’re between treatments or maintaining your glow, these habits will keep your skin safe all summer long:

  • Seek out the shade: Especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest.

  • Cover up smartly: Wide-brimmed hats, oversized sunglasses, and breathable UPF-rated clothing create a physical barrier against sun damage.

  • SPF every single day: Make sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your morning routine.

Check out LaserAway Beauty BFF SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Face & Body, which offers a lightweight feel and powerful protection, as well as SkinCeuticals Clear Daily Soothing UV Defense SPF 50, which is perfect for post-treatment skin. Both formulas provide broad-spectrum protection without clogging pores or irritating your complexion.

Apply your SPF as the last step in your skincare routine, and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Yes, even on cloudy days.

Bottom line

Laser facials and summer sun don’t have to be mutually exclusive. With just a little planning and proper post-care, you can enjoy glowing, rejuvenated skin and your favorite outdoor activities. The key? Treat early, avoid UV exposure before and after, and stay diligent with your sun protection. Your skin will thank you—this summer and beyond.

Want to learn more about Clear + Brilliant? Reach out to LaserAway, the nation’s leader in aesthetic dermatology, here. 

References

“Review of Lasers and Energy-Based Devices for Skin Rejuvenation and Scar Treatment with Histologic Correlations,” Dermatologic Surgery, April 2022.