What not to do after a CO2 laser?

Author: Bennie Bogan  |  Last update: Monday, November 24, 2025

DO NOT undergo waxing, micro-dermabrasion, exfoliations or light peels over the area for 3 months from the day of treatment. Avoid sun exposure or tanning for at least 4 weeks after treatment. Once your skin has healed and you have followed up with doctor and been given the go ahead, you may begin to wear makeup.

What is the best aftercare for CO2 laser?

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.

What's the worst day after a CO2 laser?

Rushed Results = Bad Results
  • Days 1 – 2. It is expected that you will experience a burning sensation in the treated area and your face will develop some swelling. ...
  • Days 2 – 4. Over the next few days, your face will start to feel tight. ...
  • Days 4 – 6.

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.

How soon can I wash my face after a CO2 laser?

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.

Dr. Kristina Tansavatdi | Post-Care Instructions for CO2 Laser Resurfacing

When to stop using Aquaphor after CO2 laser?

Grid marks on the face are a result of the laser fractionation and also resolve over 5-7 days. Continue to cleanse the treated area with Cetaphil Gentle Face Wash for 7 days. DO NOT SCRATCH, PICK OR RUB THE SKIN VIGOUROUSLY. On day 4, you may stop using the Aquaphor and allow your skin to breath.

What is the downside of CO2 laser resurfacing?

Risks / Benefits

Acne flares may occur after laser resurfacing. This may resolve on its own, or can be treated with conventional acne therapies. Hyperpigmentation, and more rarely, hypopigmentation, may result in the laser-treated areas.

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.

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.

When can I stop using Vaseline after CO2 laser?

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.

How many years does a CO2 laser take off your face?

After the treatment, you will notice improvements in your skin texture, tone, and appearance. Fine lines, wrinkles, and sunspots noticeably diminish, revealing smoother, younger-looking skin. On average, results from your CO2 laser resurfacing treatment can last between 3 and 5 years.

What moisturizer is best after CO2 laser?

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.

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).

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.

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.

Why does vinegar soak after a 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.

How soon after a CO2 laser can I shower?

DAY 1 (FIRST DAY AFTER TREATMENT):

➢ May take shower and wash hair. Avoid hot water.

Why no exercise after CO2 laser?

You can perform your normal activities but avoid strenuous exercise to reduce sweating in the face. 3 – 4 days after treatment: The skin swelling will resolve but the redness will remain and some flaking of skin will occur.

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

Avoid aggressive facial treatments, such as tretinoin or glycolic acid for four weeks and any topical products that may cause irritation for six weeks following treatment. Avoid activities that can cause flushing for two weeks after treatment. Don't smoke. Smoking slows the healing process.

Is CO2 under eyes worth it?

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.

What is the best age to get laser done?

While laser hair removal can be safe for teens with parental consent, the best age is usually in your twenties and thirties when hormonal levels are more stable. 2. . Can teenagers undergo laser hair removal? Yes, teenagers can undergo laser hair removal, but parental consent is required for anyone under 18.

What lasers do celebrities use?

This article delves into the top laser treatments that have captured the hearts of celebrities, including ForeverYoung BBL, DiamondGlow, PRP, laser hair removal, and Sciton DiVa. Each treatment offers unique benefits, from rejuvenating the skin to ensuring it remains as flawless as the public personas that swear by it.

What is the average cost of CO2 laser resurfacing?

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.

Is there anything better than a CO2 laser?

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].

Which is better, microneedling or CO2 laser?

Laser treatments often provide more immediate and noticeable improvements than microneedling, especially for deeper wrinkles and more severe skin damage.

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