How long does it take for your skin to recover after laser?

Author: Marques Upton  |  Last update: Monday, January 5, 2026

In general, the areas heal in five to 21 days, depending on the nature of the condition that was treated and type of laser used. Once the areas have healed, makeup may be worn to camouflage the pink to red color that is generally seen after laser skin resurfacing.

How long does it take for skin to heal after laser?

Avoid applying makeup too soon. Like skincare products, cosmetics can irritate the skin after laser skin resurfacing. You should wait 2-3 weeks for the skin to recover, or you can consult a dermatologist for the proper use of cosmetics. Sunlight exposure is the most crucial thing to avoid after laser skin resurfacing.

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

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.

Does your skin go back to normal after laser removal?

Does Skin Go Back to Normal After Laser Tattoo Removal? Yes. Your skin should go back to normal following laser tattoo removal. We can remove most tattoos completely, and following aftercare instructions will help your skin heal and return to a healthy and ink-free state.

How long does it take for collagen to rebuild after laser?

Months 2-6. The magic of collagen rebuilding becomes more apparent in the months following the procedure. Patients often observe a tighter and smoother skin texture as the newly stimulated collagen continues to develop. The skin feels rejuvenated, and the results become increasingly noticeable.

Caring for your Skin after Laser Resurfacing

What is the best age for laser resurfacing?

Individuals up to their 50s benefit greatly from laser fractional resurfacing treatments. Skin concerns like sun damage and deeper wrinkles are common in this age group.

Can lost collagen be restored?

Yes, it is possible to rebuild collagen in the face to reduce signs of skin aging and achieve smoother, firmer skin. Collagen formation can be stimulated through collagen treatments such as dermal fillers which increase levels of hyaluronic acid and promote cell growth for healthy cells.

How many layers of skin does laser resurfacing remove?

During ablative laser resurfacing, an intense beam of light energy is directed at your skin. This laser beam destroys the outer layer of skin, also called the epidermis. At the same time, the laser heats the underlying skin, called the dermis.

Can laser skin resurfacing go wrong?

Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can develop after cutaneous laser resurfacing, usually during the first postoperative week during the reepithelialization process. The most frequent infectious complication associated with resurfacing is a reactivation of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) (Figure 2).

Does skin purge after laser treatment?

Certain facials and laser treatments can also cause skin to purge. Reputable aestheticians and facialists will always inform you of these side effects, but it is worth bringing up at your appointment.

How can I speed up my laser recovery?

Setting Yourself Up For a Smooth Recovery

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.

What is the best moisturizer after laser resurfacing?

Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.

Is laser resurfacing worth it?

Yes, laser resurfacing is considered worth it by many patients due to its ability to deliver significant skin improvements with minimal downtime and cost compared to surgical options.

What is the downside of a CO2 laser?

Disadvantages of CO2 Resurfacing

Like dermabrasion, this type of laser resurfacing requires a good deal of recovery time. The patient's skin will be weepy for two weeks and will require thorough cleaning four to five times daily, along with application of ointment to keep the skin from scabbing.

Who is not a good candidate for laser resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing helps reduce the appearance of acne scars; however, it is not for clients who still have active acne. Patients who have very dark skin, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take specific medications like Accutane may not be viable candidates for laser resurfacing.

How long do laser scabs last?

It usually takes many weeks for people to notice that the treated area is healing. During this time, the area may turn a red or blackish color, and a crust may form. The crust should slowly go away 1 to 2 weeks after treatment. Don't pick at or remove the crust.

What are the stages of skin healing after laser?

The Healing Process after Laser Treatment

As the skin heals, new collagen is produced, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. The healing process after laser treatment typically occurs in three stages: inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.

Can laser damage your skin?

Lasers work by creating controlled damage to stimulate healing, but subjecting your skin to too many treatments in a short period can lead to excessive irritation, prolonged recovery, or even complications like scarring.

When can I stop using Vaseline after laser resurfacing?

Day 5 to 7 – Continue washing the treated areas with Cetaphil cleanser. Begin using Cetaphil moisturizer instead of Vaseline/Aquaphor if skin is smooth, without crusts and not oozing.

How much younger does laser resurfacing make you look?

A typical result is an 8-10 year reduction in age appearance when laser treatment on the face is done on a highly effective setting so that a 55 year old may look 46 after treatment and healing is complete. Milder treatments can be done, but are not as effective.

How much does skin resurfacing cost?

Determining the Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost

A single treatment session usually costs between $500 and $3,000. But it's important to keep in mind that you might need more than one lesson to get the results you want.

Can you overdo laser resurfacing?

Overexposure to laser light can result in skin burns, varying in severity from mild redness and discomfort to more blistering, severe burns. Individuals with sensitive skin or undergoing multiple laser therapy sessions in a short timeframe are at a higher risk of experiencing these burns.

What drink is high in collagen?

Bone Broth

Chicken bone broth is a potent source of collagen. This broth, made by boiling chicken bones in water, is believed to extract collagen, thus supporting body health.

How long does it take for skin to rebuild collagen?

However, new collagen growth can take anywhere from four to 12 weeks to complete. Keep in mind that while certain procedures can be very effective at restoring and replacing collagen, these results aren't permanent. Depending on the collagen rebuilding procedure and areas treated, results can last a year or longer.

Which fruit has more collagen?

Which fruit has the most collagen? Fruit doesn't contain collagen. But many fruits are high in vitamin C, which helps with collagen production. Fruits high in vitamin C — like oranges, grapefruits, kiwis, and papayas — can help your body make more collagen.

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