Should I use Aquaphor after CO2 laser?

Author: Marielle Hickle  |  Last update: Monday, October 13, 2025

The whole idea is to hydrate the skin so it does not dry out during the healing process. Day 2 to 5 – Begin showering twice a day and gently washing face with Cetaphil cleanser. Apply Vaseline/Aquaphor to all treated areas.

Can I use Aquaphor after CO2?

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.

Can I put Vaseline on my face after a CO2 laser?

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.

How do you take care of your skin after CO2 laser resurfacing?

Here are some essential skin care and makeup tips to help you get the most out of your laser resurfacing treatment.
  1. Right After the Procedure. ...
  2. Use sunscreen. ...
  3. Moisturize. ...
  4. Don't pick or scratch your skin. ...
  5. Avoid using harsh cosmetics. ...
  6. Don't use facial treatments. ...
  7. Avoid direct sunlight. ...
  8. Avoid strenuous activities.

Is Aquaphor better than Vaseline after laser treatment?

Aquaphor is less greasy than Vaseline and this will be contained in your laser pack. In around one percent of cases patients may suffer with contact allergy to Aquaphor. The patient usually notices this when there is persistent stinging, burning and discomfort after application.

BELO Fractional CO2 Laser Healing Process | DOES IT REALLY WORK? (what you should expect and cost)

What is the best moisturizer after CO2 laser treatment?

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.

Do dermatologists prefer Vaseline or Aquaphor?

In terms of feel, Vaseline is a bit heavier and greasier, whereas Aquaphor is a bit lighter and easier to spread. Dermatologists say deciding which one to use often comes down to personal preference. One thing to keep in mind is that you'll want to use caution with these products if your skin is prone to breakouts.

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 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.

What should I put on my face after carbon laser?

After a carbon laser facial treatment, it is important to keep your skin hydrated to promote healing and prevent dryness. Drink plenty of water and apply a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser to your skin. Avoid using heavy or oily moisturisers, as they can clog your pores.

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.

How to avoid hyperpigmentation after CO2 laser?

Sunscreen and post-laser hyperpigmentation

Photoprotection is crucial in the successful management of post-laser hyperpigmentation, PIH, and especially melasma. Both UVB and UVA rays can stimulate melanin production by melanocytes, which is why it is important to seek broad-spectrum sunscreens for adequate protection.

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.

When should you not use Aquaphor?

Eucerin Aquaphor Repairing Ointment should only be used on re-epithelialized skin (i.e. once new tissue has formed) and not on open, wet or bleeding wounds. Ask your Dermatologist for advice on how long you should wait after treatment before using the product.

Can I use Vaseline after CO2 laser?

Use gentle soap on the treated areas. Apply bacitracin or Vaseline to the treated areas at least 2 times per day. Reapply as needed to keep wounds moist at all times. A moist wound heals better than a dry, scabbed wound.

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.

When can I stop using Aquaphor after a 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.

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.

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.

Can I put moisturizer after a CO2 laser?

You may also switch to a lighter moisturizer such as Cetaphil or Cerave Cream. The first two weeks, apply sunscreen at least three to four times a day. Afterward, daily use for at least three months is required. At this point the skin is still very sensitive and may not tolerate certain skin care products.

What not to eat after a CO2 laser?

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.

How do you sleep after CO2 laser?

DAY OF AND DAY AFTER LASER SKIN RESURFACING PROCEDURE

Sleep on your back with your head elevated about 30-40 degrees (2-3 pillows).

Is Aquaphor better than CeraVe?

Aquaphor has an average rating of 9.4 out of 10 from a total of 6 ratings on Drugs.com. 80% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 0% reported a negative effect. CeraVe has an average rating of 2.2 out of 10 from a total of 59 ratings on Drugs.com.

Why do dermatologists love Aquaphor?

Aquaphor, which is "a mix of petroleum jelly, mineral oil, glycerin, and lanolin," acts as an emollient to "help soften and smooth the skin and create an occlusive protective barrier on the surface to seal in moisture," says Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of ...

Previous article
How long does it take for a tan to go away?
Next article
What can trigger skin pigmentation?