Park City Peels: Winter Air Cracking Summer Lasers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 2, 2026

The crisp mountain air bites at your cheeks, a stark contrast to the cozy warmth of your Park City condo. You’re considering a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment, lured by the promise of rejuvenated skin. But a nagging question lingers: is blasting your face with lasers a good idea when the outside world is a frozen, sun-drenched tundra? The answer, surprisingly, can be yes, but only with a strategic approach.

Park City’s winter presents unique challenges to post-laser skin. The altitude intensifies UV exposure, even on cloudy days. The dry air sucks moisture from your skin, hindering healing. And the reflective snow acts like a giant mirror, bouncing UV rays right back at you. Ignoring these factors is a recipe for complications, prolonged redness, and potentially, permanent damage.

Let’s break down how to navigate this icy landscape and emerge with glowing, healthy skin.

First, understand the enemy: environmental stressors.

Altitude: Higher altitude means thinner atmosphere, resulting in increased UV radiation.
Dry Air: Park City’s winter air is notoriously dry, leading to dehydration and impaired skin barrier function.
Snow Reflection: Snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, significantly increasing exposure.

Now, let’s formulate a battle plan. This involves meticulous pre-treatment preparation and diligent post-treatment care.

Pre-Treatment: Fortifying Your Skin’s Defenses

This isn’t just about slapping on some moisturizer. It’s about building a robust skin barrier before the laser attacks.

Hydration, Inside and Out: Start hydrating weeks in advance. Drink plenty of water and consider a humidifier in your home, especially at night. Look for skincare products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to draw moisture into the skin and reinforce the lipid barrier. A product like CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a solid, affordable choice.
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Even before the treatment, religiously apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, regardless of the weather. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice among dermatologists. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
Antioxidant Power: Incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine. Vitamin C serums can help protect against free radical damage caused by UV exposure. Skinceuticals C E Ferulic is a cult favorite, but there are many effective and more affordable options available.
Gentle Exfoliation (with caution): Light exfoliation, like using a gentle enzyme mask once or twice a week, can help remove dead skin cells and improve product absorption. However, avoid harsh scrubs or chemical peels in the weeks leading up to your laser treatment. Over-exfoliating can compromise your skin barrier and increase sensitivity.
Consultation is Key: Discuss your lifestyle and environmental exposure with your dermatologist or aesthetician. They can tailor your pre-treatment regimen to your specific needs and skin type. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice any concerns you have.

Post-Treatment: The Healing Gauntlet

This is where the real work begins. Your skin is now incredibly vulnerable, and the Park City winter is ready to pounce.

Strict Sun Avoidance: This is paramount. Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM). When you must go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses in addition to sunscreen.
Occlusive Healing: Immediately after the procedure, your skin will likely be covered with a thick ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline. This creates a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and promoting healing. Continue applying this ointment liberally throughout the day and night.
Gentle Cleansing: Use a very gentle cleanser, like Cetaphil or Vanicream, to wash your face twice a day. Avoid scrubbing or using hot water. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: Continue drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier. Apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer under your occlusive ointment.
Monitor for Infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or pus. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect an infection.
Patience is a Virtue: Healing from a CO2 laser treatment takes time. Expect redness, swelling, and peeling for several days or even weeks. Don’t pick at your skin, as this can lead to scarring.
Gradual Reintroduction of Actives: Once your skin has healed, gradually reintroduce active ingredients like retinoids and AHAs/BHAs. Start with a low concentration and use them sparingly, increasing frequency as tolerated.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Skipping Sunscreen: This is the biggest mistake. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can penetrate the clouds and damage your skin.
Using Harsh Products: Avoid using any products containing alcohol, fragrances, or other irritants.
Picking at Peeling Skin: This can lead to scarring and infection.
Returning to Activities Too Soon: Avoid strenuous activities that can cause sweating and irritation.
Ignoring Your Doctor’s Instructions: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Real-World Scenario: The Ski Bum’s Dilemma

Let’s say you’re a Park City resident who loves to ski. You want to get a CO2 laser treatment, but you’re worried about being stuck indoors all winter.

Here’s how you can make it work:

Timing is Everything: Schedule your treatment for a time when you can realistically take a break from skiing for at least two weeks.
Invest in Protective Gear: When you do return to the slopes, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a neck gaiter to protect your skin from the sun and wind.
Apply Sunscreen Religiously: Reapply sunscreen every hour, even on cloudy days.
Listen to Your Skin: If your skin feels irritated or burned, take a break from skiing and stay indoors.

The Verdict: Is it Feasible?

Undergoing intense laser resurfacing in Park City during the winter is feasible, but it requires meticulous planning, diligent execution, and a healthy dose of common sense. It’s not for the faint of heart, or those unwilling to commit to a rigorous skincare regimen.

The key is to understand the unique environmental challenges and take proactive steps to protect your skin. By following these guidelines, you can achieve beautiful, rejuvenated skin without sacrificing your love for the Park City winter. Just remember, a little extra effort goes a long way in ensuring a successful outcome.