Once the immediate post-laser wounds are healed and most of the inflammation has been resolved, all laser patients must utilize antioxidants every morning, specifically SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. When SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is used after laser surgeries, the serum can: Speed healing. Reduce inflammation.
On your first night post-treatment, continue to use cool compresses with water-soaked, tightly woven gauze to soothe your skin and reduce inflammation. Pat the compresses gently on your skin and follow with Aquaphor, Alastin Skin Nectar, or one of the other ointments I recommended.
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.
When can you go back to your own skin care routine post procedure? Retinol / retinoids (including prescription Accutane, Oratane, Adapalene, Tretinoin): 5-21 days post laser resurfacing. Start every second night, increase as tolerated. Hyaluronic acids: you can recommence 3- 10 days post procedure.
Aqueous topical L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), when used in an appropriate vehicle and when initiated at an ap- propriate postoperative period, may decrease the de- gree and duration of erythema observed after cutane- ous CO2 laser resurfacing.
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.
Sunscreen and post-laser hyperpigmentation
Photoprotection is crucial in the successful management of post-laser hyperpigmentation, PIH, and especially melasma. Both UVB and UVA rays can stimulate melanin production by melanocytes, which is why it is important to seek broad-spectrum sunscreens for adequate protection.
After a carbon laser facial treatment, it is important to keep your skin hydrated to promote healing and prevent dryness. Drink plenty of water and apply a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser to your skin. Avoid using heavy or oily moisturisers, as they can clog your pores.
We recommend CeraVe Face Moisturizer. DO NOT apply makeup to the treated area until your skin has been reevaluated by the physician. DO NOT put any other creams or lotions on the skin except for the CeraVe Face Moisturizer.
After the fractional CO2 laser procedure, you should apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Do make sure to also use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer twice a day and avoid any harsh products. It's best to limit the use of makeup products as well because they can irritate the skin even more.
Immediately after treatment:
Apply aloe vera gel to soothe any red or irritated skin. You can apply cool compresses or ice if needed. For areas that are irritated, use FixMySkin 1% Hydrocortisone Healing Body Balm which soothes rough, cracked or slightly burnt areas.
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.
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.
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.
CO2 laser treats an incredible amount of skin disorders and aging issues all at the same time. It not only tightens sagging skin and smooths out deep wrinkles, it is also able to resurface the face and remove acne scars, dark aging spots, uneven pigmentation, and sun damage.
Refrain from using skincare products with acrid ingredients, such as retinol or glycolic acid, as they can cause irritation and harm your skin. It is advisable to avoid using them for a week or follow the dermatologist's instructions. Avoid applying makeup too soon.
Use a bland moisturizer (i.e. Cetaphil® cream) or a very thin layer of petrolatum ointment (i.e. Aquaphor®). Use petrolatum ointment to cover any area with oozing and keep moist. Use of icepacks helps alleviate the heat sensation. You may also cleanse your face with a mild cleanser.
Thicker creams or occlusive products may trap heat and block proper healing. Dr. Soni recommends gentle, water-based lotions that absorb quickly. Reputable brands like Cetaphil, CeraVe, and Vanicream offer options specifically for sensitive post-procedure skin.
Moisturize your skin twice daily, morning and night, to help speed up the recovery time after laser resurfacing. Look for moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin to help lock in moisture and keep your skin moist.
Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.
We recommend using it directly after both our Laser Facials and our Resurfacing Facial when microchannels allow your skin to absorb the serum even more efficiently.
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.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
It's gentle enough for post-laser skin and is an excellent option for calming and soothing irritation.
CO2 laser treatment is one of the most effective methods for removing dark spots, offering precision, long-lasting results, and an improvement in overall skin texture and tone. While costs can vary, many find the investment worthwhile for a noticeable improvement in their skin.
Remember not to rub in the cleansing cream but only dab it on. 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.