Laser resurfacing is a popular skin treatment that can address a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, and more. To help you see the best results and take the best care of your skin after your laser resurfacing treatments, we’ve put together a guide with some of our top aftercare tips.
1. Stay Out of the Sun
Staying out of the sun is one of the most important tips after laser resurfacing treatments. Your skin will be more sensitive to UV exposure during this time, making it more susceptible to sunburn and other signs of sun damage. Not only is this not healthy for your skin, but it can also negatively impact your laser resurfacing results.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
If you notice redness, tenderness or a warm sensation in the first 24 to 48 hours after laser skin resurfacing, you can gently apply a cold compress to the area. Do not apply ice directly to your skin – make sure there is a cloth or other barrier in between. Leave the cold compress in place for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
3. Don’t Pick or Peel Skin
As your skin heals, you will likely notice some flaking or peeling. This is a normal part of the healing process. Resist the urge to pick or peel at your skin, as this can lead to skin damage and complications such as infection or hyperpigmentation.
Instead, allow your skin to gently peel naturally without any extra help. You can apply a gentle moisturizer to help your skin look and feel more comfortable during this process.
4. Avoid Harsh Skin Care Products
After your laser resurfacing treatments, one of our skin care experts will guide you through which skin care products you may use and which to avoid. Generally speaking, you want to avoid any harsh products that are acidic, such as vitamin C, or that will exfoliate, like retinoids or hydroxy acids.
You can use a mild cleanser and moisturizer while your skin heals. Talk to our team about the best post-procedure skin care to use after your laser treatments.
Similarly, wait until your skin has fully healed before applying makeup to the treated area. This can take 1 to 2 weeks.
5. Skip Strenuous Exercise
For the first 1 to 2 weeks after your laser treatment, avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sweating. Increased body temperature and sweat can irritate your healing skin, leading to redness, swelling and potential complications.
Instead, opt for light activities like walking and stretching, and wait until your skin care professional gives you the green light to resume more strenuous physical activities.
Whether you are just starting to plan laser skin resurfacing or have already completed your treatments, we are here to help guide you at every step along the way. Give our Tampa office a call at 813-877-8067 or get in touch with us online with any questions or to schedule your laser resurfacing consultation today.
Author: Caroll Delo, CCE, CME
Lead aesthetician and co-owner of Simply Smooth, Caroll Delo has over a decade of experience in cosmetic surgery, laser treatments, and medical grade skincare services. Her vast knowledge in cosmetic medicine helps make sure that every man and woman who enters our doors receives top-quality care and expertise.