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Laser treated skin is sensitive, easily irritated and degraded. Taking proper care of your skin after laser treatment can make a big difference in both your results and your comfort. San Jose, California plastic surgeon Kirk Churukian, MD says that postoperative care after some lasers, such as a resurfacing fractional CO2 laser, “is the same as treating a superficial burn.” If you follow the advice of these experts, you will find that your skin is sure to heal faster and with better results.
Featured experts
- Kirk Churukian, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon in San Jose, California
- Andrew Smith, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Irvine, CA
- William Lao, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York
- Yadro Ducic, MD is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Colleyville, TX
- Linda Swanson, MD is a board certified plastic surgeon in Torrence, CA
Udo a vinegar wash
Your doctor should give you instructions on how to dilute the vinegar with water and use it to help heal your skin. Irvine, California plastic surgeon Andrew Smith, MD suggests mixing this wash and refrigerate it in a squeeze bottle before you go for your treatment, so when you return, it’s cold and ready. Dr. Churukian says that using this wash will help minimize “flaking as well as limit bacterial contamination of the face.”
Use a mild cleanser
Washing the skin with cleansers that are harsh and stripping, such as those that are acid-based or exfoliating, can actually damage your laser skin. Dr. Smith recommends Aquanil cleaner ($16), which it describes as more of a mild soap and less of a cleanser, so it won’t dry out the skin.
MoI urinate
Keeping your skin moisturized is vital after a laser treatment. “Adequate moisture maintained by lotions or unscented moisturizers can speed skin recovery and cell renewal,” says New York City plastic surgeon William Lao, MD. “Lasers are actually controlled burns, and our tissues heal better and faster in a slightly hydrated environment.”
Colleyville, Texas facial plastic surgeon Yadro Ducic, MD, says, “Simple products like Aquaphor and various other occlusive moisturizers are all sufficient.” Lack of moisture after treatment can cause the skin to scab and can even delay (and in some cases jeopardize) the healing process.
Don’t leave home without sunscreen
Dr. Lao advises avoiding the sun as much as possible with physical blocking, such as hats and sunscreen “to reduce UV absorption, which in turn reduces the chance of PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and scar darkening.” Dr. Smith also stresses the importance of using sunscreen after a laser treatment. Recommends EltaMD UV Elements Broad Spectrum SPF 44 ($42).
Dr. Churukian says the skin remains “sun sensitive” for six months after treatment. However, she encourages patients to use sunscreen well beyond that. “Continuous use of sunscreen will help protect the investment you’ve made in your skin’s beauty and health!”
Exfoliate a few weeks after treatment
“Two weeks after the laser, patients are ready for manual skin peeling,” says Torrance, CA, plastic surgeon Linda Swanson, MD. “I find that dermaplaning works well to help remove all the extra transition skin and create a non-scaly appearance.”
Be diligent with the post-laser balm application
Dr. Smith says patients often receive a balm to use after laser treatment. He suggests patients use it as directed by their doctor for two to three weeks. He notes that after those few weeks, patients should switch to a lower-fat product—so, he recommends Vanicream ($16).
Dr. Churukian says, “providing a barrier against fluid loss as well as bacterial and fungal infections” is essential for healing. She says she applies a thick layer of Jan Marini BioShield ($140) immediately after treatment and asks patients to maintain this during recovery.
Apply cold compresses
If your skin is red and swollen after treatment, be sure to apply cold compresses and ice packs to the area as this will help reduce some of the inflammation. Sleeping in an elevated position with an extra pillow or two can also help.
Tips for dealing with common post-laser problems
Laser treatments can cause temporary side effects such as bleeding, swelling and bruising. Here’s how to handle these issues.
Caring for your skin if bleeding occurs
Minor bleeding may occur after treatment. If this happens, use sterile gauze to apply gentle pressure until the bleeding stops. If it persists, contact your doctor.
Caring for your skin if swelling occurs
Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. Sleeping with your head up can also help.
Caring for your skin if bruising occurs
Bruising may occur depending on the type of laser treatment. If bruising occurs, use arnica creams or follow your doctor’s instructions for care. If bruising is severe or does not improve, consult your dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
By following these expert tips and maintaining a gentle skin care routine, you can ensure a smooth recovery and get the best possible results from your laser treatment.
