## Vegas Skin: Desert Air Cracking Summer Lasers?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun beats down relentlessly in Las Vegas, turning the city into a shimmering oven during the summer months. It’s a beautiful, brutal place, and it takes a toll on your skin. Add laser treatments into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for extreme dryness, irritation, and potential damage. But don’t despair! With the right knowledge and a proactive approach, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing, even after braving the Vegas heat and undergoing laser procedures.
Las Vegas summers are characterized by intense heat and low humidity. This combination sucks moisture from your skin, leaving it parched and vulnerable. Laser treatments, while effective for various skin concerns, further exacerbate this dryness by disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. This is why a specialized skincare routine is crucial.
Before you even consider booking that laser appointment at a Summerlin medspa, you need to prep your skin. Hydration is key. Drink plenty of water – more than you think you need. Aim for at least a gallon a day. This isn’t just about quenching your thirst; it’s about hydrating your skin from the inside out.
Next, focus on building a strong skin barrier. This means incorporating hydrating and moisturizing products into your daily routine weeks before your laser treatment. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. Ceramides are lipids that help repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Glycerin is another humectant that also helps to soften the skin.
A great pre-laser routine might look like this:
- Morning: Gentle cleanser (Cetaphil or CeraVe are readily available at any Walgreens in Vegas), hyaluronic acid serum (The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a budget-friendly option), moisturizer with ceramides (CeraVe Moisturizing Cream), and a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice, though pricier, and can be found at many local dermatologists’ offices).
- Evening: Gentle cleanser, hydrating toner (Thayers Witch Hazel Toner – alcohol-free version – is a classic), hyaluronic acid serum, a richer moisturizer with ceramides (consider layering Aquaphor Healing Ointment on top for extra hydration, especially if you sleep with the AC blasting), and a facial oil (rosehip or argan oil are good choices).
Avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids, and other potentially irritating ingredients in the weeks leading up to your laser treatment. You want your skin to be as calm and healthy as possible.
Now, let’s talk about post-laser care. This is where things get serious. Your skin will be extra sensitive and vulnerable after a laser treatment. The goal is to soothe, hydrate, and protect.
Immediately after the procedure, your laser technician will likely apply a soothing balm or ointment. Follow their instructions carefully. For the first few days, focus on gentle cleansing with cool water and a mild cleanser. Avoid hot showers or baths, as these can further dry out your skin.
Your post-laser skincare routine should be even simpler and more focused than your pre-laser routine:
- Morning: Gentle cleanser, a thick layer of a healing ointment like Aquaphor or Cicalfate (Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is another excellent option, often found at CVS), and a mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide). Reapply sunscreen frequently throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
- Evening: Gentle cleanser, a thick layer of Aquaphor or Cicalfate.
Avoid makeup for at least a few days after your treatment. If you must wear makeup, choose mineral-based products that are less likely to irritate your skin.
One of the biggest mistakes people make after laser treatments is picking at scabs or peeling skin. Resist the urge! This can lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation. Let your skin heal naturally.
Another common pitfall is neglecting sun protection. The Las Vegas sun is unforgiving, and your skin will be even more susceptible to sun damage after a laser treatment. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses in addition to sunscreen. Seek shade whenever possible.
DIY remedies can also play a role in your post-laser skincare routine. Aloe vera, readily available at most Las Vegas grocery stores, is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help soothe irritated skin. Apply pure aloe vera gel to the treated area several times a day.
Another option is to make a hydrating face mask using locally sourced honey. Honey is a natural humectant and has antibacterial properties. Mix a tablespoon of honey with a teaspoon of olive oil and apply to your face for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with cool water.
However, be cautious with DIY remedies. Always test a small area of skin first to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction. And avoid using harsh or irritating ingredients.
Let’s consider a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re a busy professional living in downtown Las Vegas. You’ve just had a laser treatment to address sun damage. You work long hours and often find yourself walking in the sun during your commute.
Here’s how you can adapt the above advice to your specific situation:
- Invest in a high-quality, mineral-based sunscreen with a high SPF. Keep it in your bag and reapply it religiously throughout the day.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses during your commute.
- Keep a small bottle of aloe vera gel at your desk. Apply it to your skin whenever it feels dry or irritated.
- Make sure your office is well-hydrated. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
- Schedule your laser treatments for the fall or winter months, when the weather is cooler and less humid.
Remember, consistency is key. A dedicated skincare routine, combined with sun protection and a healthy lifestyle, will help you keep your skin healthy and glowing, even in the harsh Las Vegas climate. Don’t underestimate the power of hydration, both internal and external. And always listen to your skin. If something feels irritating or uncomfortable, stop using it.
Finally, don’t hesitate to consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician in Las Vegas. They can provide personalized advice and recommend products that are specifically suited to your skin type and concerns. They can also help you choose the right laser treatment for your needs and ensure that you’re following the proper pre- and post-care instructions. Your skin will thank you for it.