Laser Types, Skin Tone, and Sun Protection
Lasers fall into two broad groups. Ablative resurfacing removes the outer layer of skin and heats the layer underneath, which encourages new collagen as the skin heals. Non-ablative treatments use laser, light, or other energy without removing the top layer. They often need little or no downtime, but improvement is gradual and may take a series of sessions.
Skin tone matters when choosing a device. The American Academy of Dermatology says darker skin is more prone to burns and dark marks after laser treatment, and recommends a board-certified dermatologist with experience treating darker skin. The AAD also notes that results depend largely on the skill of the person performing the procedure, and that limited training and equipment in non-medical settings can put safety at risk.
Sun exposure affects both timing and results. The AAD says a dermatologist cannot treat skin that is tanned or sunburned, and that treated skin needs protection from the sun until it heals. After healing, the AAD recommends shade, sun-protective clothing, and a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. The EPA publishes a daily UV Index forecast you can check for your location, and advises seeking shade during late morning through mid-afternoon when the index is moderate or higher.
