When it comes to skin rejuvenation treatments, taking care of your skin post-treatment is a key step that many need to remember or loosely follow. For some, busy schedules, work, or life responsibilities may cause forgetfulness regarding aftercare instructions. Others may not understand the importance of taking extra special care of their skin during the healing process and dismiss aftercare tips as unnecessary or a waste of time.

In either case, how you care for your skin after laser resurfacing is crucial to avoid complications and achieve beautiful, lasting results. Laser skin resurfacing is an exciting treatment that provides deep skin regeneration. This non-invasive treatment effectively targets bothersome skin imperfections such as acne scarring, deep lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, and discoloration in under an hour.

Are you wondering how to avoid complications and a long recovery? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about taking care of your skin after laser treatment, including a timeline of what to expect post-treatment and how to maximize your healing so you can enjoy a radiant complexion.

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is a non-invasive procedure that uses advanced laser technology to dramatically resurface the skin and create a smoother and more even complexion. People opt for this treatment because it can effectively improve a range of skin concerns such as sun damage and discoloration, deep lines and wrinkles, acne scars, uneven skin tone, and other signs of aging. It is also a customizable treatment that caters to each person’s unique aesthetic needs.

Most individuals see results after their first treatment, with their skin rejuvenated and radiant. Generally, 3-5 treatment sessions are recommended to achieve the desired results.

How Long Does Skin Take to Heal After Laser Treatment?

If you are considering this popular skin rejuvenation treatment, you may be wondering how long it will take your skin to heal. On average, the laser resurfacing recovery process usually takes about one to three weeks. However, each person’s skin heals differently, so the exact time frame will look slightly different for everyone.

During this healing time, your skin will gradually repair itself by shedding skin imperfections to make way for new, healthy layers of skin. You will see great improvements to your skin’s tone and texture. Following proper skincare and aftercare can support a healthy healing process and prevent complications and side effects.

Keep reading to get a better idea of the recovery timeline. This will help you familiarize yourself with what to expect and how to best care for your skin after laser resurfacing.

Hours After Laser Skin Resurfacing

Immediately after your laser skin resurfacing treatment, here is what you can expect recovery to look like in the first few hours. Right after your treatment, your skin will feel hot and may look red or swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. Additionally, you may even experience some pinpoint bleeding. Don’t worry, these effects are only temporary and should go away on their own within a few hours.

You can apply an ice pack or cold compress throughout the day to alleviate swelling. This will also help tremendously with cooling down your skin and giving you great relief. Additionally, you can apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, gel, or ointment that your provider sends you home with or recommends. Over-the-counter medication is also okay to take if you want to relieve any discomfort. Make sure to avoid cleansing your skin for the rest of the day to let your skin rest and avoid irritating it.

You will also want to keep your head elevated for the day. Keeping your head up will help reduce any swelling by draining excess fluids. At bedtime, prop your head with pillows so you are not lying flat on your back. Avoid stomach or side sleeping, as this can cause irritation and increase your chances of infection while your skin is healing. You will also want to avoid cleansing your face on this first night. Let it rest.

Day After Laser Skin Resurfacing

On the first day after your laser treatment, you will notice that redness has started to calm down, and your skin will feel less hot compared to the day before. You will still have some noticeable swelling. However, this is not something to worry about, as swelling may last for the next few days. Your skin will also feel tight and dry, similar to what you would experience after sunburn.

You will want to keep your skin moisturized during this period. Continue applying a light moisturizer to soothe discomfort and prevent excessive dryness and peeling. In addition, drink plenty of water to support your body through this healing process. If you smoke, you will want to hold off for at least two weeks following the treatment.

Your skin will still be very sensitive during this time, so you must avoid excessive sun exposure for the first few months following laser treatment. Sun exposure negatively impacts the healing process and can cause pigmentation issues. It can also reverse results. Therefore, it’s best to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. If you must be outdoors, make sure you apply a high-SPF sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your healing skin from the sun’s rays.

Recovery in the First Week After Laser Skin Resurfacing

Any swelling should be mostly gone by the second and third-day post-treatment. However, you will likely start to experience itching and light peeling, similar to a sunburn that is healing. Continue applying a nourishing moisturizer to soothe dryness and stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day to aid healing.

For the first week, you should also avoid harsh or irritating skincare products such as retinol, tretinoin, and topical exfoliants. You should also refrain from using heavy moisturizers and makeup during this time to avoid slowing down your healing process. Use a gentle touch when cleansing your face or applying moisturizer during this time.

Although it may be hard to resist, avoid picking or peeling your skin. This is a part of the healing process, allowing new, healthy skin to form. Removing peeling or dry skin can slow healing and lead to scarring or irritation. During this time, you may notice positive results. Skin imperfections will start to slough off, and new healthy skin will begin to emerge. You may see significant improvements in the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture.

Recovery in the Weeks After Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing recovery typically takes up to two weeks. By week two, most of the peeling and flaking will be gone, and you will notice your skin slowly returning to normal. You may still experience some minor imperfections, such as dryness or redness, but for the most part, your face will likely look and feel way better.

If your skin is fully healed, feel free to wear oil-free makeup, which can help minimize redness. However, you will want to continue guarding your face from the sun and applying SPF and moisturizer to keep your skin protected and moisturized. Wearing protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat will ensure proper coverage. If Retin-A or glycolic acid are a part of your skincare, you should be able to use them again safely in about six weeks post-treatment. However, it is best to consult your doctor before incorporating them back into your routine.

At this stage, you will be able to notice the full results of your laser treatment. You may also notice your complexion is healthier and more radiant. As you continue to take care of your skin with proper aftercare, your skin will heal beautifully, and you will enjoy a more smooth and youthful complexion.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Aftercare Do’s

By following recommended laser skin resurfacing aftercare, you can ensure a speedy and successful healing process and be on your way to a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. Here are some universal aftercare tips to help you achieve flawless results as you are healing:

You can incorporate the following aftercare tips the day after your treatment:

•     Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water two to five times a day as instructed by your doctor
•     Use a light, non comedogenic moisturizer to alleviate dryness
•     Use a gentle touch when cleansing your face or applying moisturizer
•     Apply a high SPF every day (at least SPF 30) and wear a wide-brimmed hat
•     Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support your healing process
•     Take doctor-recommended pain relievers to reduce discomfort

Taking special care of your face through the healing process is key to ensuring a quick recovery and long-lasting results that you are happy with.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Aftercare Don’ts

Additionally, in the days following your laser skin resurfacing treatment, you will want to avoid certain activities and products to prevent irritation and discomfort. These include:

•     Sleeping on your back which can increase swelling
•     Prolonged sun exposure (avoid for the first few months)
•     Hot water, hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and jacuzzi’s
•     Harsh skincare products, exfoliants or cosmetics that irritate your face
•     Strenuous exercise so you are not sweating profusely
•     Allowing shampoo or conditioner to get on the treated area
•     Refrain from touching your face to prevent spreading bacteria

Carefully avoiding these aftercare instructions will help you experience a quick and healthy recovery process without any serious complications.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Side Effects

The intensity and duration of laser skin resurfacing side effects depend on various factors, including the depth of treatment, your skin’s sensitivity, and your individual healing process. If you tend to have more sensitive skin, you may experience stronger side effects. Additionally, if you receive a more aggressive treatment, it carries a higher risk of more intense or longer-lasting side effects and recovery.

Common laser skin resurfacing side effects include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Warm feeling in the treated area
• Flaking and peeling
• Crusting
• Itching sensation

These effects are generally temporary and natural to the skin’s healing process. If any unusual or severe reactions occur, such as uncontrollable pain, excessive itchiness, or signs of possible infection, contact your doctor immediately.

Serious Side Effects That You Should Not Ignore

While rare, more serious side effects may include scarring or unusual skin discoloration. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional if you have any of the following unexpected reactions following the treatment. These include:

• Running a fever
• Pus-like drainage
• Excessive warmth
• Extreme itching

Finding a trusted skin rejuvenation provider such as SKINNEY Medspa is key to ensuring safety and peace of mind during your laser skin rejuvenation recovery.

Get Glowing with Laser Skin Resurfacing in NYC and Miami, FL

Laser skin resurfacing is a game-changing option for individuals looking to renew their complexion and transform their skin’s texture and tone without risky surgical procedures. Reach out to SKINNEY Medspa to learn more about how this advanced skin rejuvenation combats the signs of aging, sun damage, and scarring. We are proud to be the leading provider of laser skin resurfacing in NYC and Miami.

Our luxury facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and devices that can drastically improve uneven skin tones, dark spots, acne scars, rosacea, and more. To find out if you are a candidate for laser skin resurfacing, call our NYC location at (646) 217-4134 or our Miami location at (786) 952-6164 and book a complimentary consultation.

Our experienced team has helped hundreds of men and women restore their confidence and attain beautiful, natural-looking results. We look forward to exceeding your expectations with long-lasting skin rejuvenation.