Here's How To Speed Up Recovery After Your CO2 Laser Resurfacing Treatment

Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing has truly revolutionized how we can treat and rejuvenate sun-damaged and wrinkled skin.

CO2 Lasers use continuous light beams in a scanning pattern to remove thin layers of skin with minimal heat damage. This can help treat things like wrinkles, photodamage, scars, warts, and even birthmarks. The days after getting your laser procedure is an important time to take care of your skin to protect your investment and ensure your skin benefits.

Like any resurfacing treatment that removes thin layers of the skin, the aftercare is a vital part of achieving the results that you want.

Please note: This is not to take the place of medical advice from your laser practitioner. Always follow the advice of your doctors and let them know if you have any adverse reactions to laser treatment.

What CO2 Laser Recovery Looks Like

After your skin is treated with CO laser resurfacing it can react in a variety of ways. Most of the time it will feel like a mild sunburn since the skin will be raw, may sting and be itchy.

Depending on how aggressive the laser treatment is, you may experience oozing skin that may blister. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that, "about five days to a week after laser skin resurfacing, your skin will become dry and peel."

The recovery time will depend on your treatment, but CO2 lasers typically heal in about 2 weeks. Here are our top tips for CO2 Laser aftercare that will help the recovery process.

Keep Your Skin Clean

Prevent infection by cleaning your skin in the mornings and evenings. When your skin's first layers are compromised you are left with little defense against air pollutants and bacteria. Cleaning twice daily will help wash off anything that can harm your skin and prevent dead cell build up.

Cleanse with warm water and a gentle cleanser, being careful not to scrub too hard. As your skin is peeling you'll want to let it shed naturally to avoid scarring. Use a soft clean towel like a microfiber and gently blot your skin dry to avoid rubbing. 

Protect Your Skin From the Sun

One of the best ways to protect your skin after a laser treatment is to avoid the sun. UVA and UVB rays are especially harmful when your skin's layers are compromised. You can wear a wide brimmed hat and glasses if you are outside, but try and avoid the sun if at all possible. This is why winter time is the best time to get your resurfacing treatments done!

If you must be in the sun, the Cleveland Clinic recommends using a sunscreen specifically formulated for use on the face with SPF of at least 30. VI Derm SPF 50 Daily UV Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen is a great option for post-laser skin. There are other options your doctor may provide as well. Always use medical grade sunscreen, especially after procedures. 

Use The Best Moisturizer after CO2 Laser

Keeping your skin moisturized after CO2 laser is very important. Not only will a good moisturizer help the skin feel better, the protective layer will also hold moisture in the skin and provide protection from air pollutants.

Many doctors recommend Aquaphor or petroleum jelly to provide an occlusive barrier post-laser. Our team of innovators here at Oxygenetix created a better solution. Oxygenetix Hydro-Matrix is non-occlusive while also providing the protective barrier so necessary after CO2 laser resurfacing.

Oxygenetix CEO and co-founder, Kort Pearson, said, “We at Oxygenetix have changed the name of our product previously described as a ‘moisturizer’ to Hydro-Matrix because the product is so much more than a simple moisturizer. While it does contain sodium PCA and hyaluronic acid, which are some of the best moisturizing ingredients available, that is only a portion of this complex technology. Like our foundations, Hydro-Matrix contains the Oxygenetix proprietary ingredient Ceravitae® in a breathable, non-occlusive matrix. This actively promotes skin renewal, and is perfect for sensitive or compromised skin. Hydro-Matrix is clinically tested to have a zero-irritation rating, is non-comedogenic, and is safe for all skin types.”  

You can put Hydro-Matrix on freshly cleansed skin with gloved fingertips or a new sponge for the best results. Apply liberally and as much as needed. 

Use Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation

Most doctors and dermatologists caution against wearing most makeup on the skin after a skin resurfacing treatment like CO2 laser. This is one of the reasons many people opt out of getting laser treatment. It can be difficult to take so much time off of work and social interaction! That's why Oxygenetix was born. The only foundation that is dermatologist recommended post-procedure is Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation. 

Originally designed for post-procedure skin, Oxygenating Foundation has created new frontiers in the world of cosmetics.