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Winter is a great time for laser treatments. Intense pulsed light, or IPL, is one of the most popular treatment choices during the winter months. If you’ve been considering your options for laser treatments, then now is the best time to begin your treatment package. Here’s what to know about it and why the winter months are the best time to start.

1. Your Summer Tan Has Had a Chance to Fade

Laser treatments like IPL work by targeting pigment in the skin. If your skin is darker, it can be more difficult for the laser energy to reach the correct area or to be adjusted to the correct level. Many people head to tanning beds in the summer months or apply spray tans to achieve a golden glow. These practices encourage skin pigmentation and cell damage that can cause future problems such as premature skin aging, age spots, wrinkles, and even cancer. During winter, skin pigmentation can fade, resulting in a much more effective laser treatment.

2. Your Skin Will be Less Exposed to UV Rays

The sun’s UV rays are strongest from April to October, so sun damage can be a real problem during the summer months. During cloudier months, your skin has less exposure to harmful UV rays. After laser treatment, it’s extremely important to avoid UV exposure since your skin will be extra photosensitive. Because weather can work to your advantage during the winter months, it can be much easier to avoid exposure to UV rays and avoid them altogether after treatment.

3. Winter Layers Provide the Protection You Need

Winter can be cold and dreary in Michigan, meaning you can cover up any signs of laser treatment with a warm coat or scarf. This usually includes some minor redness and irritation, similar to a sunburn. Winter clothing also provides some insulation against cold weather, which is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing laser treatments. Make sure to limit your time in hot showers or baths after treatment, however.

4. You’ll Thank Yourself for Thinking Ahead

Laser treatments often require a package of treatments for best results, so it’s best to get started now if you want to achieve your ideal results by summer. Additionally, you won’t need to worry about visible redness or irritation when you opt for treatment during winter, since you’ll likely be enjoying your favorite leggings rather than your favorite beach. With some time and patience, you can set yourself up for your best summer yet.

Schedule a Consultation

Laser treatments like IPL can be a great way to boost your confidence. To meet with Dr. David Baird and our laser team, we invite you to contact our Farmington office by calling or filling out our online form.