On day 4, you may stop using the Aquaphor and allow your skin to breath. You may change to a bland, fragrance free moisturizer lotion or cream once the skin is no longer sensitive, oozing, or raw. We recommend CeraVe Face Moisturizer.
Finally, apply a thin coat of Vaseline to keep the area moist. You can repeat this procedure every 2 – 3 hours or less often, depending on how quickly crusts re-form. 1 – 2 days after treatment: The treated skin will still look red and swollen but gradually less than on the first day.
After Epithelialization
The skin will re-epithelialize within 4-7 days. You will know this process is complete when there are no more “raw” areas of skin and the heavy peeling is complete. There will likely be some persistent redness. Discontinue the vinegar soaks and Aquaphor ointment.
Immediately After Treatment. 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.
A soothing application (i.e. Aloe Vera, Aquaphor Healing Ointment, Biafine) and/or cool compress or ice pack (over a thin towel) may be applied until the sensation, and any redness and/or swelling subsides. Avoid hot water for 24–48 hours.
✓ Moisturize – Re-apply Aquaphor® for first 2 or 3 days, then after than stop using Aquaphor® and replace it with Medical Barrier Cream. Pain: Other than a mild burning sensation for the first few hours, most patients experience no other pain.
AVOID APPLYING HEAVY MOISTURISER
Moisturisers with rich formulas can be too heavy for post-procedure skin with open pores. Avoid thick moisturisers or creams for 24-48 hours after your appointment and opt instead for hydrating gel or mist formulas.
Recovery time with CO2 laser resurfacing is up to two weeks. Erbium laser resurfacing is designed to remove superficial and moderately deep lines and wrinkles on your face and should require only local anesthetic. This laser can also be used on your hands, neck or chest.
Things to Avoid After a Heavy CO2 Treatment
Avoid anything strenuous (bending, straining or lifting heavy objects) for 1 week. Plan to rest the first week after treatment. Avoid exercise for 2 weeks after your treatment.
After cleansing your face in the morning, apply sunscreen. You may also switch to a lighter moisturizer such as Cetaphil or Cerave Cream. The first two weeks, apply sunscreen at least three to four times a day. Afterward, daily use for at least three months is required.
Keep your skin moist with Cicalfate, Aquaphor or other moisturizing cream that your practitioner recommends. It should be reapplied as needed whenever your skin feels dry. The use of a moisturizer with petroleum may be suited for certain individuals but only use these if directed to do so by your provider.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Soak the gauze in the vinegar solution for 5-15 minutes then apply the gauge to the face. These soaks help with the pain, dissolve some of the residue and are anti-microbial which decreases infections. Soaks can be done every several hours.
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.
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 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.
Apply your moisturizer every day, including when you are “peeling.” This may be 10-20 times a day. Use it whenever you feel dry or itchy. If any crusting or scabbing occurs, use one of the antibiotic ointments (Bactroban or Polysporin) or as suggested by the doctor. Do not let your skin dry out.
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.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, Niacin supplements, refined carbohydrates, and spicy foods for 48 hours after treatment.
You can use make-up 7-10 days after your treatment. You will need to purchase new make up to avoid bacteria to your new skin. It is also imperative you thoroughly clean all of your makeup brushes, or purchase new brushes.
Niacinamide serum by itself is a form of vitamin B3 and is included in many skincare products that contain acids. You should wait at least 72 hours before applying this to your skin after laser hair removal treatment, or longer if your treatment provider says so.
After approval to stop Vaseline, you may wash the treated area with Cetaphil, CeraVe or other gentle foaming type skin cleanser.