Question:
In my line of work, I spend a significant amount of time in the sun. If I were to have a Fraxel laser treatment, when would I be able to return to work?
Answer:
There are two types of Fraxel laser, re:pair and re:store. The ability to return to sun exposure is limited to when the skin will tolerate sunscreen, however even with this there is a risk of hyperpigmentation if not careful. The re:pair is a CO2 laser and has a longer recovery. Depending on what treatment level you use it may be 2-4 weeks before sun exposure is advised. The re:store is an erbium wavelength and the recovery is much quicker. Usually sunscreen can and should be worn immediately after the procedure, but sun exposure in any quantity should probably still be delayed for 4-5 days. At that time a hat should also be worn.
Posted by Dr. Buckingham
