Laser Resurfacing
Preparation
​- Plan your social calendar accordingly! It is very important to let the skin go through its natural healing process. If it is disrupted by improper aftercare you will not achieve the best results possible, and run the risk of damaging your skin.
- Depending on the treatment area and size, crusting can last around 10-14 days.
- Discontinue the use of retinol products for 10-14 days prior to service.
- Stop the use of high percentage alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) 5 days prior.
- Do not have any electrolysis, laser hair removal, or waxing done 7 days prior.
- If your skin type in a Fitzpartick 4 or higher (please see chart below for reference) it is required that you are using a melanin inhibiting product for at least 6-8 weeks prior to any medium/deep peels. Failure to do so greatly increases the risk for hyperpigmentation.
Aftercare
What to do:
​Day 1 (Treatment Day):
- Skin will be red, swollen, and feel hot (like a severe sunburn).
- Apply a thin layer of prescribed healing ointment (Aquaphor, Neosporin, Vaseline, etc.) immediately post-treatment.
- Keep the treated area covered with a thick layer of ointment throughout the day.
- Avoid washing the face for the first 24 hours.
- DO NOT touch, rub, or scratch the treated area.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Cold compress may be applied to skin to help alleviate any potential discomfort at any point during the healing process.
- Anti-inflammatory medication may be used to minimize swelling during the healing process.
Days 2-3:
- Continue applying a healing ointment several times daily to keep the skin moist.
- Gently cleanse the skin twice daily with a mild, non-irritating cleanser (e.g., Cetaphil, CeraVe).
- Pat dry gently with a clean towel or let air dry.
- DO NOT use hot water; use cool or lukewarm water only.
- Avoid all sun exposure; apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen if going outside is necessary.
​
Days 4-7:
- Skin will begin to crust, peel, and flake. This is normal!
- Continue moisturizing frequently to prevent excessive dryness.
- Continue cleansing twice daily with a gentle cleanser.
- Apply healing ointment or switch to a soothing moisturizer
Days 8-14:
- Skin should be mostly healed but may still be pink or sensitive.
- Transition to a gentle moisturizer if not already done.
- Apply sunscreen daily, even if staying indoors.
- Makeup can be applied only when all flaking has stopped and skin feels smooth.
- Continue to avoid direct sun exposure, swimming, and saunas for at least 2 weeks post-treatment.​​
​Long-Term Care (After 2 Weeks):
- Continue moisturizing daily and using high-SPF sunscreen for protection.
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4-6 weeks post-treatment.
- Maintain a gentle skincare routine and avoid exfoliants for at least 2 weeks post treatment.
- Follow your practitioner’s advice for future sessions and skin maintenance.
What not to do:
- No Scratching or Picking: Let the skin heal naturally; do not disturb crusts or flakes.
- No Exfoliation: Avoid all scrubs, chemical exfoliants, and retinoids for at least 2 weeks post treatment.
- No Swimming: Chlorine and saltwater can irritate healing skin; avoid for 2 weeks.
- No Hot Showers or Saunas: Avoid high temperatures for at least 2 weeks to prevent irritation.
- No Makeup Until Fully Healed: Apply makeup only once crusting and flaking have completely resolved.
- Avoid sun exposure and heavy sweating (exercise) until crusts have completely fallen off.​​​
- Do not apply ice directly to your skin even though it might feel good. You may wrap an ice pack in a dry wash cloth for 10-15 minutes if you would like​
- Hair removal: no waxing, electrolysis, or laser hair removal for 4 weeks post treatment ​
- Tanning beds: do not use tanning beds for at least 4 weeks.
- Do not have any other skin treatments until you have been advised to do another treatment.
- Medications: delay use of tretinoin, Retin-A, Differin, Renova, Tazorac, Avage, EpiDuo, or Ziana 4 weeks post-procedure. It is fine to resume vitamin C serums 14 days after treatment.