What are the little pimples after CO2 laser?

Author: Lelia Gottlieb  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Your skin may look inflamed for several months following ablative laser treatment. Acne. Applying thick creams and bandages to your face after treatment can worsen acne or cause tiny white bumps to form for a short time. These bumps also are called milia.

Why do I have pimples after CO2 laser?

Normal sequelae or side effects include temporary skin problems such as erythema, tightness, or drying of the skin. Milia or acne may occur at the 2- to 4-week interval. Inadequate removal of rhytids may necessitate touch-up treatment, as may the appearance of telangiectasia or rosacea.

Is it normal to get small pimples after laser?

The occurrence of pimples after laser hair removal is relatively common and is generally not a cause for alarm. However, the frequency can vary depending on several factors such as skin type, the area being treated, and the expertise of the practitioner.

What are the white pustules after CO2 laser?

Milia. These small white bumps may appear during healing. They can be removed by gentle cleansing with a washcloth.

How to get rid of pimples after carbon laser?

1. Wash Your Face the Right Way. The most effective way to keep acne from coming back after you've had scars removed with laser treatment is to wash your face. But don't splash your face with soap and water and call it a day.

5 Things to Know About CO2 Laser Resurfacing

How do you clean your skin after CO2 laser?

For days 4 and 5 post-treatment, you may begin to cleanse your face with a mild facial wash such as CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Follow these washes with a thin layer of ointment. You may also now shampoo your hair. Continue spritzing as needed with Avene Thermal Spring Water.

Does carbon laser close pores?

As the laser eliminates the carbon particles, it removes the bonded debris, bacteria, and impurities resulting in a deep cleansing of your pores. The procedure exfoliates the skin, shrinking pores, and evening out skin tone to leave you with healthier and smoother skin.

What do vinegar soaks do after CO2 laser?

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.

What are the spots after CO2 laser?

The treated skin will look red and swollen. Small white dots will be visible from the laser treatment. These appear where the laser hit the skin and are normal. You will be discharged with a light coat of anti-bacterial cream.

How to speed up CO2 laser healing?

Keeping the skin moist and hydrated eases and accelerates the healing process. Any discomfort diminishes as your skin continues to heal and rebuild. Days 4 to 5: out with the old… The outer layer of the treated skin begins to exfoliate and slough off, and pinkish, fresh skin emerges underneath.

How long after a CO2 laser will I see results?

Your skin will need a brief recovery period that can take up to three weeks, but once this period passes, you'll begin to notice a smoother texture and more even tone. Then, in the coming months, additional improvements will start to develop, including the reduction of: Age spots and sunspots. Scarring.

What are the little bumps on my face after laser treatment?

Your skin may look inflamed for several months following ablative laser treatment. Acne. Applying thick creams and bandages to your face after treatment can worsen acne or cause tiny white bumps to form for a short time. These bumps also are called milia.

What are the do's and don'ts after CO2 fractional laser?

Continue to sleep with your head elevated on pillows (head above heart) the first 2-3 nights to help minimize swelling. Avoid direct sun exposure. Do NOT apply sunblock during the first 4 days of healing. Wear a protective hat for the first 2 weeks while outdoors.

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.

What is the best moisturizer after CO2 laser treatment?

Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.

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.

Is it normal to have pimples after CO2 laser?

Acne and milia are common minor side effects. Spontaneous resolution can be expected.

Why is my face breaking out after laser treatment?

Heat-related irritation and inflammation can result in acne-like red bumps and pustules. Bacterial infection: Laser hair removal can upset the skin's normal bacterial balance, which can cause an overgrowth of bacteria that cause acne, like Propionibacterium acnes.

What are the bumps after carbon laser?

Milia, which are small, white bumps, may appear in the laser-treated areas during healing (up to a month after treatment). These may be removed by gentle cleansing with a washcloth. Hyperpigmentation, and more rarely, hypopigmentation, may result in the laser-treated areas.

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 foods to avoid after CO2 laser treatment?

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

How many times a day should I wash my face after CO2 laser?

Wash your face 3-6 times a day after the first 24 hours. Following cleansing, you may want to use a white vinegar solution to ease any discomfort, such as itching. Mix a solution of 1 teaspoon white vinegar with 1 cup cold water.

Can carbon laser cause acne?

That's where a carbon laser treatment can make a difference. Deep Cleansing: The carbon lotion applied in the treatment absorbs all dirt, oil, and impurities on your skin. When the laser is applied, it hits these impurities, making your skin cleaner and reducing the possibility of acne.

Why do my pores look bigger after laser?

The lasers can also target the dirt or oil that is trapped deep inside your pores, which may be making them appear larger. Often, along with larger looking pores on your face, you will also have some sun damage, loss of skin elasticity, and redness or discoloration.

Which is better, microneedling or carbon laser?

Choosing between a carbon laser facial and micro-needling depends on your skin's needs. Carbon laser facials are great for those seeking to reduce oiliness and acne and want quick results with no downtime. Micro-needling suits ones aiming to tackle deeper issues like scars or wrinkles over time.

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