How soon can you wear makeup after a CO2 laser?

Author: Dr. Pierce Spinka  |  Last update: Friday, October 24, 2025

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.

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.

What not to do after CO2 laser treatment?

Things to Avoid After a Heavy CO2 Treatment

Avoid anything strenuous (bending, straining or lifting heavy objects) for 1 week. Plan to rest the first week after treatment. Avoid exercise for 2 weeks after your treatment.

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

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 soon can I wash my face after a CO2 laser?

These are the only two things that should be used to maintain the healing skin over the next 4 weeks. 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 long after laser can I wear makeup?

After undergoing a full ablative laser skin resurfacing, it's crucial to give your makeup a rest for no less than 10 days.

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?

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. You may also cleanse your face with a mild cleanser.

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.

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.

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.

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.

How many years does CO2 laser take off your face?

After the treatment, you will notice improvements in your skin texture, tone, and appearance. Fine lines, wrinkles, and sunspots noticeably diminish, revealing smoother, younger-looking skin. On average, results from your CO2 laser resurfacing treatment can last between 3 and 5 years.

When can I wear makeup after a CO2 laser?

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.

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.

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.

When can I put makeup after carbon laser?

Avoid using makeup for at least 24 hours after a carbon laser facial treatment.

How long after a CO2 laser can I wash my face?

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.

What is the best foundation after laser treatment?

Many of our patients have incorporated Oxygenetix makeup into their everyday routine, even when not recovering from a procedure. This foundation works to camouflage redness, incisions and even scars. Those with rosacea or acne will also benefit.

How much does a CO2 laser 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.

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.

When can I sleep on my side after 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.

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