How long after CO2 laser can I wash my face?

Author: Mrs. Kelsi Gerlach  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

After the first 24 hours, please wash the treated areas with a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil to gently remove the Aquaphor or Alba Un-Petroleum Jelly. Always wash your hands thoroughly using antibacterial soap before touching the treated skin. Wash your face 3-6 times a day after the first 24 hours.

When can I wash my face after a CO2 laser?

There are also medications in the pack and you will be instructed on how to use these. After fully ablative laser the face should be washed twice a day. The first wash should be on the morning after surgery.

How many days after laser can I wash my face?

Wear a protective covering within the first few hours after you've left your doctor's office. After that, you just have to wait until the next morning (at least 12 hours after) to wash your face. Avoid scalding water—tepid is best—and only use a gentle cleanser as recommended by your doctor.

Can I take a shower after a CO2 laser?

1 – 2 days after treatment:

You can take a shower but do not directly let the shower hit the treated skin, to avoid injury and scarring.

How many hours after a carbon laser can I wash my face?

Can I wash my face after carbon laser peel? Following a carbon facial treatment, you should avoid direct sunlight for at least 12 to 24 hours. You can wash your face two to three times a day using a gentle facial cleanser.

Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi | Post-Care Instructions for CO2 Laser Resurfacing

Can I wet my face after CO2 laser?

You can shower but hot water/steam should be avoided. When showering, be sure to wash your hair behind you to avoid getting shampoo directly on the treated area. Avoid “picking at” and aggressively scrubbing the skin – allow it to gently exfoliate with the washing process.

Can I shower 3 hours after laser?

It is generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours before showering after laser hair removal. This is because your skin will be sensitive to heat for a period of up to 48 hours after the treatment. People who tend to have more sensitive skin should wait the entire 48 hours before showering after laser hair removal.

How to avoid hyperpigmentation after CO2 laser?

Sunscreen and post-laser hyperpigmentation

Photoprotection is crucial in the successful management of post-laser hyperpigmentation, PIH, and especially melasma. Both UVB and UVA rays can stimulate melanin production by melanocytes, which is why it is important to seek broad-spectrum sunscreens for adequate protection.

Can I scrub my face after CO2 laser?

First Few Days. Continue cleansing and moisturizing over the next few days. Once the sloughing starts, please allow your skin to heal and DO NOT scrub, rub, or use exfoliants. Keep clothing away from treated body parts as much as possible to avoid irritation.

How to speed up healing after CO2 laser?

You can ensure a smoother recovery and better results by avoiding picking at treated skin, keeping healing skin moist and hydrated, using sunscreen, and using gentle skin products.

When can I use sunscreen after a CO2 laser?

Persistent redness, blotchiness, or dryness may make an appearance for a few weeks, but you can use tinted sunscreen or makeup after 7-10 days.

How long should I avoid water after laser?

The ideal time to wait before swimming following laser hair removal treatment is 48-72 hours. This recovery period enables the treated skin to mend properly without risk of irritation. Deciding when it's safe to swim after laser hair removal treatment requires patience.

What moisturizer is best after co2 laser?

Immediately After Treatment

Before you depart, we will apply a thin layer of Aquaphor, CeraVe healing ointment, or Alastin Skin Nectar to your treatment area.

How long after laser can you wash your face?

The whole idea is to hydrate the skin so it does not dry out during the healing process. Day 2 to 5 – Begin showering twice a day and gently washing face with Cetaphil cleanser. Apply Vaseline/Aquaphor to all treated areas.

When can I sleep on my side after a CO2 laser?

Sleeping on your back for the first two weeks helps to ensure this. Following your laser procedure, a Silon dressing will be applied over your face. This dressing, which looks like Saran wrap, will provide a moist environment for quicker healing and less discomfort.

What serum is best after CO2 laser?

The perfect product to slowly introduce into your routine three to five days after your laser treatment is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. This serum has been tested and deemed suitable for use post-laser.

Can I wash my face with water after a CO2 laser?

Recovery instructions for post-laser skin resurfacing

You may wash your face 2-5 times a day using saline solution or dilute vinegar solution, depending on a dermatologist's recommendation. Sleep on an extra pillow during the first four nights after the procedure.

When can I shower after a CO2 laser?

DAY 1 (FIRST DAY AFTER TREATMENT):

➢ May take shower and wash hair. Avoid hot water.

Can a CO2 laser go wrong?

Fortunately, true complications of laser resurfacing are very rare (Table 2). The most severe problem, and one that often results in scarring, is infection. 13,14 Patients may be infected by a variety of agents. Herpes simplex infection may occur after laser treatment (Figure 9).

How soon can I wash my face after a carbon laser?

Following a carbon facial treatment, you should avoid direct sunlight for at least 12 to 24 hours. You'll also want to wash your face two to three times a day using a gentle facial cleanser. It is important to keep your face clean, as well as your bedding and pillows.

Why do dark spots get darker after laser?

Incorrect Laser Settings: If the laser settings aren't appropriately adjusted for your skin tone, the laser may target the melanin in the skin instead of the hair follicle. This can lead to an increase in pigmentation, making the skin appear darker.

How long after CO2 laser will I see results on my face?

Your skin will need a brief recovery period that can take up to three weeks, but once this period passes, you'll begin to notice a smoother texture and more even tone. Then, in the coming months, additional improvements will start to develop, including the reduction of: Age spots and sunspots.

What is the fastest way to heal skin after laser treatment on face?

Use cold compresses: Applying cold compresses during the first 24 to 48 hours after your treatment can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Stay cool: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for the first few days after treatment. Heat can increase inflammation and slow healing.

How long after laser can I exfoliate?

Exfoliating too early can lead to irritation, delayed healing, and potential damage to the skin. The general recommendation is to wait at least 3 months after a CO2 laser treatment before incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine.

Do and don'ts after facial laser?

Use Gentle Cleansers: Wash your face with mild, non-abrasive cleansers that won't strip your skin or cause irritation. Avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances during the healing phase. Avoid Picking or Scrubbing: It's crucial to let your skin heal naturally.

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