A recent New York Times article discussed when to schedule cosmetic procedures so as to get the best results. For example, laser hair removal will not work on tanned legs, so it should be done after a summer tan has faded. It’s a good article and has some interesting information, but I do want to add some comments.

Laser hair removal: Self tanners are a problem, too. In my practice, we either get rid the fake tan (very easy to do with hair dye remover) or wait a week until the last trace of the self tanner is gone. I have to say, though, that what is going to make the biggest difference is the use of the right laser. No matter how pale your legs are, if the wrong laser is used you are not going to be happy with the result. On very fair-skinned patients, I recommend the Prowave laser, and for any skin darker than porcelain fair – even if it’s just a slight tinge of olive – I use the Cool Glide.

Spider veins: Personally, I find that they can be done at any time – no need to wait until winter. I use a laser to zap them, with minimal or no bruising.

Chapped lips: I could not agree more with the recommendation to use Aquaphor! One of the most effective and least expensive remedies.

Brown spot removal: No need to make special arrangement to schedule this, either, because you can have them done without any unsightly scabs. I use a Medlite laser that fades the spot without damaging the skin. It may take several treatments, but the great news is that there is no scabbing – in fact, there’s no sign of the procedure at all, just a gradual fading. I’ve treated TV actors who get their spots done just before going to shoot their program, and nobody, not even the camera, can tell.