CO2 Laser Post Care Instructions

CO2 Laser Treatment Post-Care Instructions

Pre-Treatment Preparation:

• Medications: Take Tylenol 45 minutes before the appointment.
• Sun Protection: Avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least two weeks before treatment.
• Prepare for Downtime: Plan for 3 to 7 days of downtime to allow the skin to heal.
• What You Will Need:
  • Post-Procedure Healing Ointment
  • Cetaphil Gentle Face Wash
  • CeraVe Face Moisturizer (to use after discontinuing Aquaphor)
  • White Vinegar
  • Square Gauze Pads for vinegar soak
  • Optional: Tylenol, Antihistamine, Ice Packs

Post-Treatment Instructions:

Day of Treatment

• Discomfort: It may feel like a sunburn—tight and dry. If needed, take Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Benadryl to relieve pain, swelling, or itching.
• Avoid Ibuprofen and Aspirin for 24 hours to reduce bleeding risks.
• Swelling: Use cold compresses or ice packs on the treated area for 10 minutes every hour until bedtime.
• Sleep Elevated: Use extra pillows to elevate your head above your heart to reduce swelling, especially around the eyes and mouth.
• Aquaphor: Keep the treated areas covered in Aquaphor Healing Ointment to create a protective barrier.
• Antiviral Medication: If prescribed, continue taking the antiviral medication as directed.

Days 1-3: Immediate Healing Phase

• Cleansing:
  • Wash your hands before touching your face.
  • Gently cleanse the skin with Cold water and Cetaphil Gentle Face Wash 3 times a day.
  • If needed, use a vinegar soak to help with healing:
    • Mix 1 teaspoon of white vinegar with 1 cup of water.
    • Soak a gauze pad and gently press it on the treated area for 5-15 minutes.
    • Perform vinegar soaks every 1-2 hours as needed to ease discomfort and remove residue.
• Swelling & Oozing:
  • Some oozing may occur—this is normal.
  • Use ice packs to minimize swelling, especially in the morning.
  • Sleep with your head elevated for the first 2-3 nights to further reduce swelling.

Days 4-7: Transition to Moisturizer

• Discontinue Aquaphor:
  • Stop using Aquaphor on day 4 if your skin is no longer oozing or raw.
  • Switch to a fragrance-free moisturizer like CeraVe Face Moisturizer to maintain hydration.
• Avoid Makeup & Sun Exposure:
  • Avoid applying makeup until your skin is fully healed and approved by your provider.
  • Do not use sunscreen during the first 4 days. Afterward, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen multiple times a day.
• Manage Dryness:
  • Expect flaking, peeling, or sandpaper-like texture as dead skin sheds.
  • Gently cleanse the skin without scrubbing or rubbing to prevent irritation.

Post-Treatment Expectations

• Redness & Pinkness:
  • Redness will gradually fade over the next few weeks but may persist as a rosy glow for up to several months.
  • Itching: Cool compresses and Benadryl can help manage any itching.
  • Crusting or Pimples: If you notice crusting, do not pick or scrub. Keep the area moist and gently cleanse.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities:
  • No exercise, swimming, or exposure to steam rooms/saunas for at least 7 days.
  • Avoid dirty or dusty environments to prevent infection.

Long-Term Care:

• Sunscreen:
  • Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily for at least 3 months to prevent hyperpigmentation.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure; wear a hat and protective clothing outdoors.
• Moisturizers:
  • Use non-clogging moisturizers such as Cetaphil or CeraVe to prevent dryness and breakouts.
• Makeup:
  • Once approved by your provider, opt for mineral makeup for sensitive, healing skin.

Potential Side Effects:

• Redness or Pinkness: This reflects the healing process and will resolve over time.
• Swelling or Visible Blood Vessels: These are normal and temporary.
• Temporary Acne or Cysts: These may appear due to ointments clogging the pores.

Important Reminders:

• Cold Soaks and Compresses: Continue vinegar soaks as needed for relief.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: These can delay healing.
• Call Your Provider: If you notice signs of infection (fever, blisters, increased redness/swelling), contact your provider immediately.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all follow-up visits to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

By following this structured post-care regimen, you will maximize the results of your CO2 laser treatment and promote smooth, healthy healing. If you have any concerns during your recovery, please do not hesitate to contact us 602-952-8446 ask for Saharra.

 

Suddenly Slimmer Day and Med Spa

3313 E. Indian School Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85018