Co2 Laser Acne Scar Downtime and Aftercare

Fractional Co2 resurfacing for acne scars creates small treatment columns in the skin. Visible peeling or crusting and the later settling of skin colour are two separate parts of recovery. Ask the practitioner to estimate each for the size of the area and the treatment they propose.

How long might the skin look treated?

In a small split-face acne-scar study, crusting or scaling averaged about a week on the fractional Co2 side. Redness averaged longer. That is a useful planning example from one protocol. It cannot set the day on which your skin will tolerate makeup or be comfortable outdoors.

A small area of selected scars and a larger resurfaced area can feel very different during the first week. Tell the clinic about previous pigment changes, skin infections, cold sores or a history of difficult healing. Discuss these before choosing a date around a wedding or work event.

Care while the surface is healing

Follow the cleansing and dressing or ointment instructions supplied for your procedure. Picking crusts or adding scrubs and acids can disturb fragile skin. Ask when to resume your usual cleanser, prescription products, makeup and sunscreen. Plan shaded travel and time away from strong sun while the skin is recovering.

Returning to work and exercise

Consider your environment as well as your appearance. Heat, dusty work, sweat or a mask pressing on the treated area may require different arrangements from working at a desk. Ask when you can safely return to each activity.

Changes to raise with the clinic

Symptoms should be interpreted in context, especially on skin where redness is difficult to see. Get prompt advice about increasing pain, new blisters, spreading warmth, discharge or feeling unwell. Keep your aftercare contact available outside the scheduled review.

Once healing has settled, use comparable photographs to discuss scar depth or texture. Early swelling can temporarily soften the look of an indentation. A decision about another session should follow that later assessment.