Summer skincare can feel confusing with all the noise about what you can and can’t do in the sun. Is IPL safe to do in the summer? Can you use red-light therapy if you have sun exposure? Will light-based devices even work during the summer months?
We’re setting the record straight and busting the biggest myths around summer skincare so you can keep your glow all season long, safely and effectively.
MYTH 1: You can’t do IPL treatments in the summer
✨FACT: You can use IPL in the summer – with the right precautions
Many people believe IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is off-limits once temperatures rise, but the truth is more nuanced. IPL works by targeting the pigment in your hair to disable the hair follicle to prevent regrowth. If your skin is tanned or sunburned, there's more melanin present, which can increase the risk of skin sensitivity.
SmoothSkin Tip: Avoid sun exposure (including tanning beds) for at least 48 hours before and after IPL treatments. Always use SPF 30+ on treated areas and test a small patch of skin if you’ve been in the sun recently. Our Pure Fit and Pure Adapt devices are designed with smart skin sensors to help keep treatments safe and effective, even during summer. Our patented skin tone sensors read skin at over 80x a second and adjust based on your unique skin tone making it a safe and effective personalized routine just for you.
MYTH 2: You can’t use red-light therapy if you’re spending time in the sun
✨FACT: Red-light therapy is safe year-round, even in sunny months.
Red-light therapy is non-invasive, non-UV, and doesn’t make your skin more sensitive to the sun. It’s completely safe to use in summer, as long as you’re not applying it to freshly sunburned or irritated skin.
SmoothSkin Tip: For best results, use your LED mask indoors, before sunscreen or makeup. Combine it with a calming skincare routine to support your skin. You can also use our Collagen + Hydrogel face mask that pairs nicely with the LED mask for ultimate hydration.
MYTH 3: Red-light therapy will “undo” your tan or lighten your skin
✨FACT: Red light therapy doesn’t affect melanin or skin pigmentation.
Unlike laser treatments, red light therapy doesn’t target pigment. It works on a cellular level to improve skin tone, reduce inflammation, and stimulate collagen. It won't fade your tan or alter your skin tone - natural or otherwise.
SmoothSkin Tip: Use red light therapy to soothe post-sun skin and reduce signs of sun stress like redness or dehydration. Just never use it on sunburned skin - wait until your skin has healed.
MYTH 4: You shouldn’t exfoliate if you’re using IPL in the summer
✨FACT: Gentle exfoliation helps support hair removal results - but timing matters.
While over-exfoliating can cause sensitivity, especially when paired with sun exposure or IPL, light exfoliation actually helps by preventing ingrown hairs and encouraging smoother skin.
SmoothSkin Tip: Exfoliate 1–2 times per week, but not within 24 hours of an IPL session. Avoid harsh scrubs and opt for gentle scrubbing mitts. Always apply SPF afterwards.
Summer and skincare can coexist
Don’t let myths keep you from making the most of your skincare routine this summer. With the right knowledge, SmoothSkin’s IPL and LED devices can fit seamlessly and safely into your summer lifestyle. Protect your skin, follow best practices, and enjoy a smooth, radiant glow all season long!
