How soon can I wear makeup after a CO2 laser?

Author: Merritt Brakus Jr.  |  Last update: Thursday, January 8, 2026

You can use make-up 7-10 days after your treatment.

How many days after a CO2 laser can I wear makeup?

Do not apply make-up over the treated skin for at least 10 days. About 30% of laser patients will experience hyperpigmentation after skin resurfacing. This usually occurs about 4 weeks after the procedure.

What is the best foundation after a CO2 laser?

Hi, It is best to use a mioneral make up like Glo or Jane iredale. Ideally thje make up should be matched to your skin tone prior to the laser treatment. Be careful applying and especially removing your make up for a few weeks after the laser procedure as your skin will be delicate and easily abraided.

When can I put makeup after a carbon laser?

Answer: Approximately 1-2 weeks after the procedure Following CO2 laser skin resurfacing, you should wait until your skin is smooth, pink, and free of crusting before applying makeup, which typically takes 1--2 weeks. Applying makeup too soon can lead to irritation and infection.

How long after laser can I put makeup on?

Avoid makeup at first

Your skin is especially sensitive for the first 24 hours or after treatment. During this time, it's a good idea to avoid wearing any makeup because even sensitive-skin products can have agents that irritate skin immediately after treatment.

Can You Wear Makeup After Laser Skin Resurfacing? | Dr. Angela Sturm

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.

How soon can you wear makeup after laser pigmentation?

4. Can I wear makeup during the healing time after pigment laser treatment? Yes, you can apply mineral makeup to the treated area from day 2.

What not to do after a CO2 laser?

No exercise, gym, or other strenuous activity for at least 4 days. Avoid hot environments, saunas and swimming pools. 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.

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.

How many hours should I not wash my face after a carbon laser?

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.

What should I put on my face after a CO2 laser?

On your first night post-treatment, continue to use cool compresses with water-soaked, tightly woven gauze to soothe your skin and reduce inflammation. Pat the compresses gently on your skin and follow with Aquaphor, Alastin Skin Nectar, or one of the other ointments I recommended.

How can I speed up my CO2 laser healing?

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. Staying hydrated and eating healthy also promotes healthy skin renewal.

How many days does it take for CO2 laser to heal?

Recovery time with CO2 laser resurfacing is up to two weeks. Erbium laser resurfacing is designed to remove superficial and moderately deep lines and wrinkles on your face and should require only local anesthetic. This laser can also be used on your hands, neck or chest.

When can I wear eye makeup after laser?

If you can, for the first week following your surgery, you should try to avoid getting water in your eyes and wearing eye makeup is also off limits for the first 7 days.

When to stop using Aquaphor after CO2 laser?

Day 3-6 – Exfolitaion Phase (Aquaphor® no longer needed): at least 3 times a day - cleanse with Cetaphil, soak with diluted vinegar solution, then apply a thin layer of Medical Barrier Cream. Exfoliation/ shedding will be completed during this phase – don't pick!

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.

How long after a CO2 laser can I wear makeup?

You can use make-up 7-10 days after your treatment. You will need to purchase new make up to avoid bacteria to your new skin. It is also imperative you thoroughly clean all of your makeup brushes, or purchase new brushes.

Is CO2 under eyes worth it?

The CO2 laser is highly effective for resurfacing the skin, improving texture, and reducing pigmentation concerns. For the under-eye area, the CO2 laser delivers precise energy that can improve: Fine lines and wrinkles. Crepey skin texture.

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 moisturizer is best after CO2 laser?

The best moisturizer on the market today for post treatment care is Oxygenetix Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix. Specifically designed to be used after laser procedures, Hydro-Matrix is safe for compromised skin up to a third degree burn.

How much does a CO2 laser treatment cost?

The cost of full-face CO2 laser resurfacing varies greatly across the United States. Fees can range from $3,000–$7,000, including the surgeon's fee, facility fee, and anesthesia.

Which laser is best for skin tightening?

Expert Dermatologists Name 8 Best Lasers and Devices for Skin Tightening
  • Laser and energy-based therapy is the gold standard for non-surgical skin tightening. ...
  • LaseMD Ultra. ...
  • Active FX and Deep FX. ...
  • Fraxel Repair. ...
  • Erbium YAG. ...
  • RF Microneedling. ...
  • Ellacor. ...
  • Sofwave.

How soon can I use hyaluronic acid after a CO2 laser?

When can you go back to your own skin care routine post procedure? Retinol / retinoids (including prescription Accutane, Oratane, Adapalene, Tretinoin): 5-21 days post laser resurfacing. Start every second night, increase as tolerated. Hyaluronic acids: you can recommence 3- 10 days post procedure.

How can I speed up healing after a CO2 laser?

Top 10 CO2 Laser Recovery Tips for Fast Recovery & Best Results
  1. Listen to Your Doctor's Advice. After your CO2 laser treatment, it's important to do what your doctor says. ...
  2. Keep Skin Moist. ...
  3. Stay Out of the Sun. ...
  4. Drink Lots of Water. ...
  5. Don't Pick Your Skin. ...
  6. Use Gentle Skin Products. ...
  7. Sleep with Your Head Up. ...
  8. Eat Healthy Foods.

Why do dark spots get darker after laser?

Post-laser hyperpigmentation may occur due to inflammation of the skin caused by the laser device, especially when inappropriate laser settings or laser type are selected for treating a patient.

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