When does peeling start after a CO2 laser?

Author: Hortense Blick DDS  |  Last update: Saturday, November 15, 2025

Peeling usually starts about 3 days post treatment and is gone by 7 to 10 days. In general, we suggest you plan on 2 to 5 days at home for initial recovery, longer for deep treatments. Consider not planning major social events for at least 2 weeks after treatment.

When does skin start peeling after CO2 laser?

the few days following the procedure, you will experience some or most of the following: Swelling for 3-4 days • Surface skin darkening (darker mask) • Raw appearance (like a bad sunburn) • Serous fluid production • Skin may start to peel by day 4 or soon thereafter. DO NOT peel or rub off any skin at any time.

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 long after laser can you get a peel?

No chemical peels or other resurfacing skin care treatments for 2 weeks before and after laser treatments. Lotions, creams, makeup and deodorant need to be removed prior to treatment as they can obstruct or refract laser light.

How many days does a CO2 laser take to heal?

CO2 laser resurfacing has been successfully used to treat wrinkles and scars as well as other benign skin growths such as warts, birthmarks, rhinophyma (enlarged oil glands on the nose), and other skin conditions. Recovery time with CO2 laser resurfacing is up to two weeks.

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

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 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.

Will my skin peel after carbon laser?

Despite the name, a carbon laser peel isn't a traditional chemical peel. Instead, your doctor uses a carbon solution and lasers to create a peeling effect. The lasers don't penetrate the skin too deeply, so there's very little recovery time.

What are the stages of skin healing after laser?

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.

Does CO2 laser tighten skin?

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.

When do you stop Aquaphor after a CO2 laser?

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.

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.

Should I moisturize after CO2 laser?

Moisturize

Moisturizing your skin post-laser will help keep it hydrated and prevent dryness and itching. Use a moisturizer specifically designed for use after laser resurfacing to help keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

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 layers of skin does CO2 laser remove?

This process removes the outer layer of skin (often called the epidermis) and heats the underlying skin (the dermis). As we mentioned above, this process also stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. By stimulating the deep dermis layer, the skin grows new collagen fibers.

How long to do vinegar soaks after CO2 laser?

Apply the vinegar soaked gauze dripping wet for 10-15 minutes over the treated area. Avoid excessive rubbing. Reapply Aquaphor ointment (or silicone gel) after the gauze is removed. Vinegar soaks should be done at least 6x/day.

How long does skin peel after a CO2 laser?

Peeling usually starts about 3 days post treatment and is gone by 7 to 10 days. In general, we suggest you plan on 2 to 5 days at home for initial recovery, longer for deep treatments. Consider not planning major social events for at least 2 weeks after treatment.

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.

What is the best age for laser resurfacing?

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.

When do you see results from carbon laser peel?

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS FROM MY CARBON FACIAL? The entire treatment takes approximately 30 minutes, afterwards you should see an instant brightening of the skin, which will also feel smoother and softer than ever before. The results will continue to progress throughout your course of treatments.

How to avoid hyperpigmentation after CO2 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.

Does skin always peel after laser?

Here's What to Expect After Laser Resurfacing Treatment

Treatments that go deeper can also incur a period of extreme dryness and flaking as skin heals. The degree of peeling and flaking is related to the depth of your laser resurfacing treatment.

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.

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 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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