To minimize your risk of hyperpigmentation you should stay out of the sun and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen for several weeks before and after CO2 laser treatment.
A brown pigmentation on the treated areas of the face (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) can occur but this will spontaneously resolve. Hyperpigmentation can be minimised through sun avoidance.
It may be reduced by avoiding sun exposure before and after laser treatments and using a fractionated laser delivery system or cooling devices. Ironically though, excessive use of cooling may cause inflammation and also trigger hyperpigmentation.
In the first few days following your laser treatment, you may notice that the pigmentation appears darker than before. This is caused by the treated pigment rising to the skin's surface as it breaks down, signalling the start of the healing process.
Antimicrobial therapies with antiinflammatory properties, such as topical fusidic acid, may also be beneficial in preventing PIH. Similarly, platelet-containing plasma appeared to reduce CO2 side effects, including PIH, when used in conjunction with CO2 laser treatment.
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).
Ways to Speed Healing:
Soak the treated skin with a plain white vinegar solution at least 4 to 8 times each day. You can't soak too much. Soaking reduces redness and speeds healing! Do not pick, rub, scrub, or irritate your skin while it is healing.
Finally, apply a thin coat of Vaseline to keep the area moist. You can repeat this procedure every 2 – 3 hours or less often, depending on how quickly crusts re-form. 1 – 2 days after treatment: The treated skin will still look red and swollen but gradually less than on the first day.
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.
We recommend CeraVe Face Moisturizer. DO NOT apply makeup to the treated area until your skin has been reevaluated by the physician. DO NOT put any other creams or lotions on the skin except for the CeraVe Face Moisturizer. Stay out of the sun.
Prescription Treatments
Dermatologists often prescribe retinoids, which promote skin cell turnover and help fade hyperpigmented areas over time. Corticosteroids may also be used, especially when inflammation is a concern. These can reduce swelling and minimize the risk of further pigmentation.
Avoid strong chemical-laden cosmetics, skincare, and cleaning items that might harm your skin. Drink water throughout the day to keep your skin and body moisturized. Hydration keeps skin supple and healthy. Prevent any further changes in your skin color following a laser treatment or injury!
Standard treatment options for PIH are medicated creams that your dermatologist can prescribe, such as tretinoin or retinol, as well as hydroquinone. Azelaic acid is another option, along with chemical peels.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
If you're wondering how can I speed up healing after CO2 or UltraClear laser treatments, the key is to follow your provider's instructions. 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.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.
Because your skin takes time to add new collagen to its framework, your CO2 laser resurfacing results will take several weeks to appear, with full results developing over the next few months. Once established, the results of laser skin rejuvenation are long-lasting.
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.
However, it is also reported that despite CO2 lasers having superior results, the Erbium: YAG laser is better tolerated with less downtime in acne scar patients [8].
Hyperpigmentation, or a darkening of the skin, is the greatest risk associated with CO2 laser resurfacing procedures. Ironically, a darkening of the skin is the opposite of what patients are typically after when they seek CO2 laser treatment, but this can be easily avoided.