Summer in San Diego calls for skin that looks as radiant as the season feels. Whether you’re preparing for beach days, outdoor gatherings, or simply want to feel confident in every photo, achieving clear, luminous skin doesn’t have to wait.

The Science Behind Summer-Ready Skin

Your skin’s appearance reflects cellular processes happening beneath the surface. As we age or experience sun damage, fibroblasts—the cells responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid—enter a dormant state called senescence. Laser treatments work by reawakening these vital cells, restoring your skin’s natural ability to repair and regenerate.

This approach allows us to address multiple concerns simultaneously while stimulating your body’s own healing mechanisms for natural-looking, long-lasting results.

The Take5 and Take10 Advantage: Proprietary Multi-Modal Treatments

At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, we’ve pioneered combination treatments that maximize results while minimizing downtime. Our signature Take10 procedure combines three or more lasers in a single session to dramatically reverse aging signs, while our innovative Take5 offers a brand new approach to laser rejuvenation with half the downtime.

Take5 strategically layers 2+ non-ablative technologies in a single session, which may include Fraxel® Dual, Alexandrite, VBeam®, UltraClear®, Clear+Brilliant®, and/or IPL to deliver customized results with minimal recovery time. Unlike traditional ablative treatments, Take5 achieves remarkable rejuvenation without resurfacing the skin, meaning no bleeding, no crusting, and significantly reduced downtime.

Each treatment is designed based on your specific concerns, skin type, and summer timeline.

Real patient results before and after laser resurfacing treatment in San Diego

Proven Solutions for Every Skin Concern

IPL Photofacial: Comprehensive Light Treatment

Invented by our very own Dr. Mitchel Goldman, IPL photofacial treatments use five state-of-the-art devices, including the Lumenis M22 and Stellar IPL platforms, which feature Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT™) with Multiple-Sequential Pulsing (MSP™). This technology enables treatment of virtually any skin type with enhanced safety and precision.

This approach addresses:

  • Facial hyperpigmentation and sun spots on the face
  • Uneven skin tone and texture irregularities
  • Vascular lesions and diffuse redness
  • Fine lines and early signs of photoaging
  • Enlarged pores and skin roughness

The treatment usually takes only 10-15 minutes with virtually no downtime. Results become apparent immediately, with continued improvement over the following weeks.

Female patient showing off results of ipl photofacial for freckles and sun damage in San Diego

Clear + Brilliant Laser: Gentle Fractional Technology

For those seeking subtle yet noticeable improvements, Clear + Brilliant treatments provide gentle skin renewal. This fractional technology creates microscopic treatment zones that stimulate cellular renewal while preserving the skin’s protective barrier.

The treatment improves:

  • Overall skin quality and radiance
  • Early signs of aging
  • Pore appearance
  • Skin texture and smoothness

Recovery is minimal—typically just mild redness for 24-48 hours—making it perfect for maintaining your skin’s health throughout summer.

Female patient results before and after laser resurfacing in San Diego

Fraxel® Technology: Non-Ablative Fractional Treatment

Our Fraxel Re:store Dual and Fraxel FTX system combines two wavelengths (1550nm and 1927nm) to simultaneously address deep structural concerns and surface pigmentation issues without removing the skin’s surface.

This approach treats:

  • Moderate to significant sun damage
  • Acne scar treatment needs
  • Melasma and persistent pigmentation
  • Skin texture irregularities
  • Fine to moderate lines and wrinkles

The fractional delivery ensures that while we’re creating beneficial thermal zones for remodeling, surrounding healthy tissue accelerates healing and minimizes downtime to 2-3 days for most patients.

Female patient before and after laser resurfacing for pigmentation issues in San Diego

The Best Options for Specific Summer Concerns

Acne Scar Treatment

For those wondering how to get rid of acne scars effectively, our comprehensive approach includes multiple advanced treatments based on scar type and depth:

Take10 Treatment: Our signature procedure combining three or more lasers for dramatic scar improvement and overall facial rejuvenation.

Non-Ablative Laser Treatments: Fraxel Dual/Re:store and ResurFX technologies remodel scar tissue while stimulating new, healthy skin formation without removing the skin’s surface.

Potenza® RF Microneedling: Delivers radiofrequency energy through controlled microneedles, allowing us to target specific depths and customize treatment intensity.

UltraClear®: First-of-its-kind fractional cold fiber laser that offers a complete solution for healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

VBeam® Perfecta: Pulsed dye laser that reduces scar redness and promotes healthy tissue growth.

Dermal Fillers: Injectable treatments that fill depressed scars for a smoother appearance.

Combination Protocols: Many patients benefit from our approach, combining multiple modalities for comprehensive scar improvement.

Photodynamic Therapy for Active Acne

PDT combines photosensitizing agents with calibrated light activation to target acne-causing bacteria while reducing sebaceous gland activity. This treatment is particularly effective for moderate to severe acne that hasn’t responded to conventional therapies.

Female patient before and after PDT treatment in San Diego

Pigmentation Correction

Summer skin preparation often involves addressing existing sun damage. Our approach includes:

PicoSure® and PicoWay® Technologies: These picosecond lasers deliver ultra-short pulses that shatter pigment particles with minimal thermal damage to surrounding tissue.

Targeted IPL Protocols: Our physicians’ expertise in wavelength selection ensures optimal melanin absorption while protecting healthy skin.

The CLDerm Difference: Expertise and Innovation

Research and Development

Our founder, Dr. Mitchel Goldman, helped develop the first intense pulsed light device for medical applications. This focus on innovation continues today, with many of our dermatologists actively involved in clinical research and technology development.

Physician-Led Care

Unlike many practices where aestheticians or nurse practitioners perform treatments, our board-certified dermatologists personally conduct nearly all laser procedures. This ensures optimal results and immediate expertise if any concerns arise.

Technology Portfolio

With over 60 laser and light devices, we can precisely match treatment modalities to your specific needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Treatment Planning and Timeline Considerations

Summer Preparation

For best results, begin your laser treatment series 6-8 weeks before your most important summer events. This timeline allows for:

  • Multiple treatment sessions if needed
  • Complete healing and optimization
  • Any necessary touch-up procedures
  • Full integration of results

Managing Sun Exposure

Post-treatment sun protection becomes critically important. We provide comprehensive sun protection options, including:

  • Broad-spectrum SPF recommendations
  • Physical barrier guidelines
  • Activity modification suggestions
  • Timeline for safe sun re-exposure

Safety and Candidate Assessment

Consultation Process

Every patient undergoes thorough evaluation including:

  • Detailed skin analysis using advanced imaging
  • Medical history review
  • Fitzpatrick skin type assessment
  • Realistic expectation setting
  • Customized treatment planning

Risk Management

Our extensive experience allows us to minimize potential complications through:

  • Precise energy settings based on skin characteristics
  • Conservative approaches with appropriate progression
  • Advanced cooling systems for patient comfort
  • Immediate access to post-treatment support

Expected Outcomes and Maintenance

Timeline of Results

Most patients notice improvement within days of treatment, with continued enhancement over 2-6 months as fibroblasts produce new structural proteins. The gradual nature of these improvements ensures natural-looking results.

Longevity Factors

Treatment durability depends on several factors:

  • Baseline skin condition
  • Lifestyle factors (sun exposure, smoking, skincare)
  • Treatment intensity and number of sessions
  • Individual healing characteristics

Maintenance Strategies

To preserve and enhance your results:

  • Bi-annual touch-up treatments with IPL or Clear + Brilliant
  • Consistent professional-grade skincare
  • Diligent sunscreen use
  • Healthy lifestyle maintenance

Investment in Your Skin’s Future

While costs vary based on individual treatment plans, investing in professional laser treatments often proves more economical than years of premium skincare products with limited efficacy. During your consultation, we’ll provide transparent pricing and discuss options that align with your goals and budget.

Your Path to Radiant Summer Skin

Transform your skin with the confidence that comes from choosing San Diego’s most experienced and technologically advanced dermatology practice. Our team of board-certified specialists combines decades of expertise with proven technology to deliver results that look natural and feel effortless.

Ready to discover how laser treatments for your face can reveal your most radiant skin? Contact Cosmetic Laser Dermatology at 858.943.2113 or visit us at 9339 Genesee Ave #300, San Diego, CA 92121. Let us design a personalized treatment plan that prepares your skin for everything summer has in store.

Your skin deserves the expertise, technology, and care that only comes from San Diego’s premier cosmetic dermatology destination. Begin your journey to luminous summer skin today.

To learn more about summer skin care, check out this study from the National Institute of Health.

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The first 3 attendees to schedule a Take10, Take5, or UltraClear with Dr. Boen will receive 10% off their treatment, plus a complimentary skincare gift basket.*

*Treatment must be completed by the end of November 2025. Skincare basket will be provided upon completion of treatment. Must be a new patient to the practice or existing patient of Dr. Boen. Terms & conditions may apply.
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