Pre- & Post-Care:
CO2 Laser Resurfacing
CO2 Laser Resurfacing provides wrinkle reduction, overall tissue tightening and textural improvement. The skin will have a smoother, tighter appearance and pigmentation will decrease.
This service REQUIRES a consultation before service can be performed so if you have not discussed with a provider this treatment, you MUST reschedule. They cannot be performed the same day.
PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR CO2 LASER:
- Discontinue skin irritants at least 1 week prior (retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, glycolic acid).
- Avoid sun exposure/tanning.
- No accutane within 1 year of treatment.
- Arrive with clean skin void of lotion, oil, makeup, or self tanning agents. If you were pre-given numbing cream, please apply it to clean skin approximately 30 minutes before your arrival.
- Inform the office/your provider if you are prone to cold sores so that medication can be prescribed and started 1 day prior to your treatment.
- Coordinate a driver if you plan to take medication for discomfort or anxiety.
- Avoid filler for 1 month prior to treatment.
- Botox/Injectables can be performed 2 weeks before or 2 weeks after CO2 laser treatment.
WHAT TO EXPECT POST-TREATMENT FOR CO2 LASER:
- Common side effects include: discomfort, excessive skin redness, swelling, changes in skin texture, change of pigmentation (hyper- or hypo-pigmentation), itchiness, and less likely, scarring, and infection. You may want to take a few days off work.
- Headaches and nausea are not uncommon in the first days after CO2 laser. If excessive, please contact your provider for guidance.
- Follow the post treatment skin care instructions.
- Take any suggested medications as instructed.
POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR CO2 LASER:
- Some discomfort/heat/throbbing or headache is normal for the first few hours or days. The most significant discomfort is the first 30-60 minutes post treatment! An over-the-counter pain medication may be used depending on your level of post-treatment discomfort.
- Swelling is expected, is worse in the morning and improves as you sit up or walk around. May persist up to 3 days.
- You may experience a burning sensation on the skin that will last between 30 minutes to up to 3-4 hours following the treatment on the first day.
- Rest and sleep with your head raised on 2 to 3 pillows for the first few days.
- Apply cool compresses to the area on top of a thin towel or fabric, 15-20 min every hour to soothe discomfort if needed.
- After 1-2 days, the eschar/necrotic skin will disappear and the skin will have a tanned look. While makeup COULD be applied at this point, we advise to prolong avoiding makeup until skin is healed.
- Redness may persist for up to 3 days. On the 4th day or so, the treated skin will get darker and begin to peel around the 5th or 6th day. Deeper peels can take over 7 days for recovery.
- Minimize movement if the skin around the treatment area is tight. Applying the provided Alastin Soothe + Protect balm to the treated area multiple times a day will help soothe discomfort. Avoid hot water as that will increase dryness/discomfort.
- Avoid picking, peeling, scrubbing or exfoliating! This can cause scarring.
- Avoid exercise, bending, straining, stooping, or lifting heavy object. initially. You may resume light exercise after 5-7 days and intense exercise after 10 days.
- Avoid dusty environments, dirt, or chemical contact such as hairspray to skin.
- Avoid spray/self tanning a minimum of 6 weeks and sun exposure for a minimum of 6 months. An SPF of 30+ should be applied daily regardless of weather conditions. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and/or uv protective clothing in the area you were treated. The skin will be extremely vulnerable to the sun and avoiding it ensures the best results.
SKINCARE INSTRUCTIONS POST-TREATMENT FOR CO2 LASER:
- Follow the after care instructions given to you with your Alastin Aftercare Kit. Or follow them here:
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- Evening of Treatment:
- Cleanse with Alastin Cleanser and cool water. Pat very lightly with a soft, clean towel to dry.
- Apply Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar.
- Apply Alastin Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm.
- For Days 2-10 Post Treatment AM/PM:
- Cleanser with Alastin Cleanser and cool water. Pat very lightly with a soft, fresh/clean towel each time to dry
- Apply Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar.
- Apply Alastin Soothe + Protect Recovery Balm 2-3 times a day as needed.
- AM ONLY: Apply Alastin SilkShield All Mineral Sunscreen.
- For Day 11 and On:
- Cleanser with Alastin Cleanser. Pat very lightly with a soft, clean towel to dry.
- Apply Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, you may need to purchase a full size at this time.
- AM ONLY: Apply Alastin SilkShield All Mineral Sunscreen.
- Evening of Treatment:
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Contact us if you:
1. Experience severe pain, excess bleeding, or signs of infection (fever, prolonged redness and swelling), call us immediately.
2. Have additional questions or concerns regarding your treatment/treatment follow-up.
Contact Us Today To Find Out If You Are A Candidate For CO2 Laser Resurfacing!