You may use Cetaphil Moisturize. The moisturizer is applied generously to the lasered skin and since it is less greasy than Vaseline, you need to apply more moisturizer and use it more frequently. The whole idea is to hydrate the skin so it does not dry out during the healing process.
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.
Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% mixed with either Vaseline®, Aquaphor® or Aloe Vera gel, up to three times daily or as needed until resolved. Apply cold packs (wrapped in a barrier like a towel) to the affected area(s), taking them on and off every three to five minutes for one to two hours.
Actions To Avoid Following Laser Resurfacing
Do not use active ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, or retinol. Also, avoid direct sunlight or UV rays while your skin is healing.
Cleanse the treatment area two to five times a day as instructed by your doctor. Sleep on an extra pillow at night to help reduce the swelling for the first four days after the procedure. Apply a cool compress or a wrapped ice pack for 15 minutes every one to two hours as needed, during the first 24 to 48 hours.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hydration is key after a laser treatment, and hyaluronic acid is the perfect hydrating ingredient. It attracts and holds water in the skin, helping to alleviate dryness and restore the skin's moisture balance without irritating.
Immediate Care Tips for Post-Laser Recovery
Keep It Cool: Use cool compresses to soothe the skin. Apply gently to reduce swelling and discomfort. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and Moisturize: Hydration is key to skin recovery. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to help maintain moisture balance.
Use Gentle Cleansers: Wash your face with mild, non-abrasive cleansers that won't strip your skin or cause irritation. Avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances during the healing phase. Avoid Picking or Scrubbing: It's crucial to let your skin heal naturally.
Skincare After Several Days
During this stage, look for lotions that focus on moisturizing the skin rather than products that actively fight wrinkles. A lotion with hyaluronic acid is often ideal during this period.
It's beneficial to use aloe vera gel on affected areas after laser treatment as it can help keep swelling and redness to a minimum. You might find that your skin is tender after laser treatment, but aloe vera can help reduce this. It helps keep the skin moisturised, which also helps to speed up the healing process.
The short answer is Yes. The treated area may experience some reddening and swelling. After treatment, you can apply Vaseline, after-sun cream, or aloe Vera gel to the treated area for soothing skin. The area might need to be soothed by applying an ice pack when you use old laser technology.
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.
Avoid skincare products with active ingredients including vitamin A, vitamin C and exfoliants for 3-5 days. No high intensity exercise or excessive heat (hot, steamy showers or hot yoga) in the day that follows as heat can irritate hair follicles. Wear sunscreen always, and staying out of the sun is recommended.
Individuals up to their 50s benefit greatly from laser fractional resurfacing treatments. Skin concerns like sun damage and deeper wrinkles are common in this age group.
Many dermatologists recommend applying an antioxidant serum with vitamin C after laser treatments to protect the skin from free radicals that can cause premature ageing. So go ahead and get your vitamin C serum today!
Searching for over-the-counter products meant for dry, sensitive skin will be a good place to start finding the right moisturizer for you. Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.
Avoid applying makeup too soon. Like skincare products, cosmetics can irritate the skin after laser skin resurfacing. You should wait 2-3 weeks for the skin to recover, or you can consult a dermatologist for the proper use of cosmetics. Sunlight exposure is the most crucial thing to avoid after laser skin resurfacing.
You can also stay hydrated by: Eating Water-Rich Foods: Fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges are excellent for hydration. Using Hydrating Skincare Products: Incorporating a good moisturiser and hydrating serums into your post-treatment routine can help lock in moisture.
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. Stay out of the sun!
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.
You can start using a physical sunscreen like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide on your skin. A good sunscreen is EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Face Sunscreen with an SPF protection of more than 40.
Once you're home, the aftercare process kicks in right away. It's super important to keep the treated area clean and protected to prevent infection. Healing exosomes and silicone gel are often recommended to speed up recovery and reduce redness. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser two to five times a day.
You may shower after the laser treatments and the treated area may be washed gently with a mild cleanser (such as Cetaphil, Aquanil, or Dove) in lukewarm water. The skin should be patted dry and NOT rubbed.