Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.
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. Avoid dirty, dusty environments, perfumes and hairsprays on treated areas.
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.
Diet: A light low-fat diet is best after surgery. You may start a regular diet after your procedure if you are not feeling nauseated or vomiting. Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking 8 -10 glasses of water a day. Avoid alcohol while you are still having to take pain medications.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.
Day 4-5. 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.
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.
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.
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.
Full results can be seen 3-6 months after the initial treatment, once the skin has completely healed. How long do results from an CO2 laser last?
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.
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!
DAY OF AND DAY AFTER LASER SKIN RESURFACING PROCEDURE
Sleep on your back with your head elevated about 30-40 degrees (2-3 pillows).
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.
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.
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.
Erbium laser:
In contrast, the Erbium: YAG laser has a wavelength of 2,940 nm. This is 10 to 20 times better absorbed by water and human skin than the CO2 laser and was developed for this reason [5].
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.
Dietary Considerations: You Are What You Eat
It's particularly true when you're healing from a CO2 laser treatment. Foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can speed up the healing process. So, munch on some blueberries or sip on green tea; your skin will thank you!
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.
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.
First Week of Healing. Keep treated area clean; avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive exercise, perspiring, swimming, or exposing skin to heat and sun. Skin Care Products. All of your skin care products should be non-irritating and non-clogging for the first week or so after a Fraxel treatment.
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.
Ablative lasers are best for individuals with significant skin damage or aging concerns who are looking for substantial improvements. However, because they are more aggressive, they come with longer recovery times and a higher risk of side effects like redness, swelling, and scarring.