When can I shower after CO2 laser resurfacing?

Author: Estell Legros  |  Last update: Thursday, December 18, 2025

hot showers or baths for the first 24 hours. Preferably take short warm showers. (Cool showers may be soothing and help remove heat). If you take a shower during the exfoliation (peeling) phase, avoid running hot water directly on the treated area.

How soon can I take a shower after a CO2 laser?

1 – 2 days after treatment:

You can take a shower but do not directly let the shower hit the treated skin, to avoid injury and scarring. There will still be oozing of clear or slightly yellowish fluid and crusting. This is normal.

How long after laser can you shower?

It's best to wait 24 hours but at least 6-8 hours before showering to allow your skin to recover from the treatment.

What not to do after CO2 laser resurfacing?

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.

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.

BELO Fractional CO2 Laser Healing Process | DOES IT REALLY WORK? (what you should expect and cost)

When do you stop Aquaphor after a CO2 laser?

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!

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.

Can I wash my hair after a CO2 laser?

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.

What is the downside of a CO2 laser?

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.

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

Can I wash my face after carbon laser peel? Following a carbon facial treatment, you should avoid direct sunlight for at least 12 to 24 hours. You can wash your face two to three times a day using a gentle facial cleanser.

How can I speed up healing after a 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 long after laser can I wash my face?

After that, you just have to wait until the next morning (at least 12 hours after) to wash your face.

What is the best moisturizer after laser resurfacing?

Drugstore brands such as CeraVe, Cetaphil, Eucerin, and Neutrogena make gentle, hydrating moisturizers that can be used after laser treatments.

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.

How many hours should I wait to shower after laser?

It's recommended to wait at least 6-8 hours after a laser hair removal session before taking a shower; which should be cold or very mild. This gives the skin time to cool down and for any redness or swelling to subside.

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 can you not do after CO2 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.

Is CO2 laser better than Botox?

CO2 laser treatments and Botox are both equally effective in restoring your natural beauty, although generally CO2 lasers provide longer lasting results. Before you decide which one is best for you, it's essential that you consider whether you are a good candidate for either.

How many years does CO2 laser take off?

How many years does CO2 laser last? In general, the results from a CO2 laser resurfacing treatment can last 3 to 5 years. This varies based on individual factors like your lifestyle, age, and how well you care for your skin post-treatment.

How much does a CO2 laser treatment cost?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

These are the only two things that should be used to maintain the healing skin over the next 4 weeks. There are also medications in the pack and you will be instructed on how to use these. After fully ablative laser the face should be washed twice a day. The first wash should be on the morning after surgery.

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.

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