CO2 Laser Resurfacing/Tightening

This is an ablative laser procedure, meaning it removes the outer layers of damaged skin to reveal fresh, underlying skin. It is the "gold standard" for treating deep wrinkles, severe sun damage, acne scars, and uneven texture. It also stimulates significant collagen production for long-term tightening. Settings for resurfacing could be from a light peel to remove sunspots/freckles to significant contraction for skin tightening. Talk to your provider about your goals vs downtime.

Because this is an intensive treatment, you should plan for 7–14 days of social downtime.

Days 1–3: Significant redness, swelling, and oozing. You will likely not want to leave the house.

Days 4–7: The skin will darken, crust, and peel.

Days 7–14: Usually finished peeling. The skin is pink and healing. You can usually wear makeup to cover the pinkness after day 7-10.

We use strong topical numbing cream (and rarely local anesthetic injections) to maximize your comfort. Most patients report feeling heat or a "sunburn" sensation during and immediately after the procedure, rather than sharp pain.

CO2 laser is not recommended for anyone with dark skin, other procedures will likely be safer. If you have tan/yellow skin complexion a prep with hydroquinone cream is likely needed prior to the procedure, please consult with the clinic about this.

To ensure safe healing and prevent complications, you must follow these guidelines:

STOP Active Skincare (Vitamin A/Retinols): Discontinue all Retin-A, Tretinoin, Retinol, Glycolic Acid, and Salicylic Acid products 7–10 days prior to your appointment. These can make the skin too sensitive.

STOP Blood Thinners: To minimize bleeding and bruising, avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin), Vitamin E, Fish Oil, and Omega-3 supplements for 1 week prior, unless prescribed by a doctor for a medical condition.

No Tanning: You cannot have an active tan or sunburn. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks before treatment.

Prescriptions: We will prescribe a course of Steroids (to reduce swelling) and Antibiotics (to prevent infection). Please fill these before your appointment if you want them to be ready at home.

* IMMEDIATE AFTERCARE *

Medications: Start your prescribed Antibiotics and SterAquaphorctly as directed on the bottle. Finish the full course of antibiotics unless instructed otherwise. If you were prescribed an antiviral (like Valtrex), continue taking that as directed.

Keep it Moist (The "Occlusive" Rule): Your skin must never dry out. Apply a thick layer of the recommended ointment (e.g., Aquaphor, Vaseline, or specific post-care balm) continuously. If it feels tight or dry, apply more.

Sleep Elevated: Sleep with your head propped up on 2 pillows for the first 3–4 nights. This is crucial to help drain fluid and minimize the significant swelling that occurs around the eyes.

* CLEANING & HYGIENE *

Gentle Washing: Wash your face 2–3 times a day with cool water and a very gentle cleanser (like Cetaphil or CeraVe). Use only your fingertips—do not use a washcloth or scrub.

Vinegar Soaks (If Instructed): If we have advised vinegar soaks, mix 1 teaspoon of white vinegar with 1 cup of cool water. Soak clean gauze in the solution and gently lay it on the skin for 10–15 minutes to soothe and clean.

Do Not Pick: As the old skin begins to darken and peel, do not pick, pull, or scrub it off. Let it slough off naturally during washing. Picking can cause scarring.

* WHAT TO EXPECT *

The "Ooze": It is normal for the skin to weep a clear, yellow fluid for the first 48 hours. This is part of the healing process.

Redness: Your skin will be bright red (like a severe sunburn) for the first week, fading to pink over the next few weeks.

Itching: As the skin heals (Days 4–7), it may become very itchy. You can take an over-the-counter antihistamine (like Benadryl or Zyrtec) to help.

* STRICT SUN AVOIDANCE *

No Sun: New skin is extremely sensitive to UV light. You strictly avoid direct sun exposure for 4 weeks. Once the skin has healed (after peeling is complete), you must wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every single day to prevent hyperpigmentation (dark spots).