CO2 Laser Resurfacing #postOPP Instructions

PRODUCTS

• Gentle Cleanser                
• Aquaphor/Vaseline
• Sunscreen 30+ with Zinc  
• Gauze/washcloths

 
WHAT TO EXPECT

• Sunburn sensation for about 24 hours after the procedure.
• Redness, swelling, crusting, and darkening of the treated area for up to 14 days.  The skin should heal over in about 10-14 days.
• Pin-point bleeding, clear/yellow drainage, and itching.
• The treated area will be especially sensitive to the sun for about 6-8 weeks.  
• Persistent redness/blotchiness/dryness for several weeks after treatment, which may be covered with tinted sunscreen or make up after 7-10 days.
• You may notice improvement after one treatment, but typically multiple treatments are necessary for best results.

 
WHAT TO DO

• For the first 24-48 hours, you may apply ice packs intermittently for discomfort, pain or swelling. Apply 20 min on then 20 min off.
• Apply gauze soaked with a dilute vinegar solution and cool water once daily x 2-3 days. 1 TBSP white distilled vinegar to 2 cups of cool water.
• Cleanse the area with Gentle Cleanser 2-3 times per day in a circular motion with your fingertips only.  Pat the area dry and then apply a layer of Aquaphor or Vaseline. 
• Keep the area moist with Aquaphor/Vaseline at all times for the first 10-14 days, then you may switch to a thick cream moisturizer under a zinc SPF. 

 

• After 7-10 days when the skin is mostly healed over, you may start applying sunscreen SPF 30 or greater with zinc oxide every morning whether you plan on being outside or not.
• Minimize ALL sun exposure, especially for the first 8 weeks, and up to a year as you will be very sun sensitive.  Sun exposure could result in discoloration and decrease your overall results.

 
WHAT NOT TO DO

• DO NOT pick, scratch, or rub the scabs or dry skin.  This may result in infection, delayed healing, scarring, and/or discoloration to the area.
• Do not allow the treated area to dry out.
• Do not use any retinoids, retinols, alpha hydroxy acids, or skin care products for 2 weeks after treatment.  You may resume slowly after 14 days as tolerated.

 
SCAR TREATMENTS

• 4-6 treatments every 6-8 weeks are required for best results.
• Vinegar soaks are not necessary but cleanse the area with a gentle cleanser with your fingertips twice daily.
• Keep the area moist with Aquaphor/Vaseline at all times for the first 14 days.
• You may resume using Glide scar gel to the area after 14 days.