CO2 Laser Resurfacing #postOPP Instructions
PRODUCTS
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHAT TO DO
WHAT NOT TO DO
SCAR TREATMENTS
- 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.