Medications after CO2 laser treatment If you have pain or discomfort, taking acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or NSAIDs (such as Motrin® or Advil®) may help. Ask your healthcare provider how much acetaminophen or NSAIDs you should take. Don't take acetaminophen if you have liver problems.
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.
The immediate post laser treatment consists of covering the lasered skin with Vaseline (Aquaphor or whatever the specific product you are instructed to use) and using cold packs for discomfort and swelling. The best treatment to be comfortable is to apply cold compresses to the treated areas of the face.
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.
Managing discomfort
If you have discomfort after your procedure, taking acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can help. Acetaminophen is safe for most people, but not everyone.
» If the area that will be treated is in a sun-exposed area, covering it with a bandage can also provide extra sun protection. » Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or similar medications. These medications can thin the blood, increasing bruising and bleeding after laser.
While it's common to experience mild discomfort during laser hair removal, taking painkillers before your session is perfectly fine. However, it's best to opt for paracetamol instead of ibuprofen or aspirin, as these can react to the laser light and potentially cause adverse effects.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.
The recovery time is up to 3 to 5 days for the non-ablative lasers, and 1 to 2 weeks for the ablative lasers. You should avoid sun exposure, or use a good sunscreen, for several weeks afterwards to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Avoid aspirin or other blood thinning drugs (vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba), ibuprofen, or arthritis medication for fourteen days BEFORE and AFTER treatment. These medications can lead to excessive bruising. Avoid alcohol and do not smoke for two days before and after treatment.
During the first 24 – 48 hours, apply cold compress for 15 minutes every 2 hours if the skin is red and swollen. Do not ice the skin directly. Apply a thin film of petroleum gel (or moisturizer) on the skin until it recovers fully.
Take an OTC Pain Reliever
If you're particularly sensitive to pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain relief treatment like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Take your painkiller approximately 45 minutes before your appointment.
Recovery times will vary depending on your treatment
CO2 laser resurfacing: Generally up to two weeks. Erbium laser resurfacing: One full week.
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.
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.
The Healing Process after Laser Treatment
As the skin heals, new collagen is produced, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. The healing process after laser treatment typically occurs in three stages: inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.
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.
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.
Applying a moisturizer regularly will not only combat dryness but also soothe your skin, leaving it feeling smooth and revitalized. We also suggest choosing a fragrance-free moisturizer to avoid potential irritation on areas of the skin that may be sensitive after laser hair removal.
Ensure that you eliminate the chance of discomfort during your laser hair removal treatments by avoiding caffeine for a full 24 hours prior to your appointment. Afterward, it's safe to go crazy and get an extra large latte, even though it might not be the best for your skin.
Additionally, the laser is only activated once it is in contact with the skin, thus blocking the potential of exposure to the eye. Initial treatments may cause short term muscle spasm, mild fatigue, mild nausea or headaches.
The bikini line, underarms, and facial areas are often reported as the most painful, while legs and arms are usually more comfortable. With proper preparation and aftercare, the procedure is manageable and well worth the long-lasting results.
It might be suggested that you apply some type of antibiotic cream or hydrocortisone cream topically over the affected areas. These topical creams help soothe the affected area and protect the skin. While many such creams are available over the counter it is best to use them only if prescribed by a doctor.