How long should I use Vaseline after a CO2 laser?

Author: Jaeden Cormier MD  |  Last update: Thursday, July 24, 2025

Day 2 to 5 – Begin showering twice a day and gently washing face with Cetaphil cleanser. Apply Vaseline/Aquaphor to all treated areas. Continue with the cold packs. Day 5 to 7 – Continue washing the treated areas with Cetaphil cleanser.

When can I stop using Vaseline after a CO2 laser?

The first week after laser skin resurfacing is challenging in terms of care. You will be swollen, covered with Vaseline and not presentable to leave the house. This all begins to change at about day 5-6. After this the recovery is much easier.

When to stop using Aquaphor after CO2 laser?

Grid marks on the face are a result of the laser fractionation and also resolve over 5-7 days. Continue to cleanse the treated area with Cetaphil Gentle Face Wash for 7 days. DO NOT SCRATCH, PICK OR RUB THE SKIN VIGOUROUSLY. On day 4, you may stop using the Aquaphor and allow your skin to breath.

When can I use moisturizer after a CO2 laser?

Immediately After Treatment. Use a bland moisturizer (i.e. Cetaphil® cream) or a very thin layer of petrolatum ointment (i.e. Aquaphor®). Use petrolatum ointment to cover any area with oozing and keep moist. Use of icepacks helps alleviate the heat sensation.

Is Vaseline good after laser treatment?

The short answer is Yes. The treated area may experience some reddening and swelling. After treatment, you can apply Vaseline, after-sun cream, or aloe Vera gel to the treated area for soothing skin. The area might need to be soothed by applying an ice pack when you use old laser technology.

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

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.

Does Vaseline increase healing?

This barrier keeps the wound moist, which is essential for the natural healing process, encouraging the migration of skin cells and reducing the overall time for wound healing. Does Vaseline boost healing? Indeed, Vaseline aids in boosting the healing process.

What is the best aftercare for CO2 laser?

Apply an ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth to the treated area. Hold the ice pack on the treated area for 15 to 20 minutes. Put the ice pack on the treated area every few hours, or 1 to 5 times each day. After the first 2 to 3 days, use the ice pack as needed.

How long after laser can you moisturise?

Although you may think that a moisturizing lotion helps make your skin smooth after laser hair removal, it could do the opposite and irritate the skin further. Your best bet is to leave the area of skin where you had laser hair removal free of any product, aside from aloe vera, for at least 24 hours.

How long does it take for skin to heal after CO2 laser?

After approximately ten days, your skin will have largely healed and be free of any crusted areas. It will still remain pink for a little while longer though, but this will settle progressively over the following weeks.

How do you know when to stop using Aquaphor?

After 3 or 4 days of using the Aquaphor ointment, you may notice small specks of color come off as you rub the ointment in. This is healing skin, and an indicator that you should stop using the Aquaphor as often.

Does CO2 laser tighten jowls?

Yes, the CO2 laser is renowned for its ability to tighten jowls and rejuvenate the lower face. By enhancing collagen production and boosting elasticity, the treatment reduces skin laxity along the jawline, helping to lift and sculpt a more contoured appearance.

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.

How long do you use Aquaphor after CO2 laser?

✓ Moisturize – Re-apply Aquaphor® for first 2 or 3 days, then after than stop using Aquaphor® and replace it with Medical Barrier Cream. Pain: Other than a mild burning sensation for the first few hours, most patients experience no other pain.

When should I stop using Vaseline?

However, anyone who develops any of the following symptoms after applying Vaseline should stop using the product: skin redness or soreness. itching. swelling or inflammation.

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.

When can I stop using Vaseline after co2 laser?

Apply Vaseline/Aquaphor to all treated areas. Continue with the cold packs. 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.

Can I use hyaluronic acid after CO2 laser?

Hyaluronic acids: you can recommence 3- 10 days post procedure.

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

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 much younger does a CO2 laser 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.

What not to do after a CO2 laser?

Remember not to rub in the cleansing cream but only dab it on. You can perform your normal activities but avoid strenuous exercise to reduce sweating in the face. 3 – 4 days after treatment: The skin swelling will resolve but the redness will remain and some flaking of skin will occur.

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.

Do dermatologists recommend Vaseline?

Dawn Davis, M.D.: Petroleum jelly is great, and it's one of a dermatologist's main tips and tricks. Mr. Olsen: Dermatologist Dr. Dawn Davis says that's because this odorless nearly colorless jelly is so versatile.

How long to leave Vaseline on a scar?

DO NOT EVER PICK OFF A SCAB. This will cause a scar by further traumatizing the fragile wound. 1. Continue applying Vaseline or Aquaphor for 2-3 weeks after suture removal.

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