The heat of the summer is upon us...and we're all dutifully applying our sun screen, right? It's important for everyone, but if you've had any sort of cosmetic peel (such as a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or laser skin resurfacing) it's that much more essential.

After a peel, the skin that is exposed is brand new and has no protective layer. Therefore, damage can be done very quickly if you don't take steps to protect the skin. Ideally, sun exposure should be avoided completely following laser resurfacing for at least 5-10 days. When you do venture out again, make sure you're wearing at least an spf30 for the first month or so, followed by permanent daily use of at least an spf15. If not, you could end up with more skin discoloration than you started out with.