Fractional CO2 laser treatment is a highly effective, non-invasive skin treatment that effectively reduces wrinkles and scars, improves skin laxity, and improves hyperpigmentation. It primarily targets damaged tissue and stimulates collagen production. This non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment is widely used in dermatology and aesthetic medicine.
The following information will help you understand skin care before and after fractional CO2 laser treatment：
Pre-treatment Skin Care:
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Avoid the sun and tanning
Protect your skin from the sun and tanning beds for two weeks before treatment. Apply a sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily.
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Use Medication Carefully
Avoid using medications that can cause sun allergies (such as doxycycline or minocycline) for at least three days before treatment.
Stop taking medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and vitamin E, as these can prolong blood clotting time.
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Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep
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Stop Using Active Ingredients
Stop using any skincare products containing retinoids, exfoliants, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), or hydroquinone. These ingredients can increase skin sensitivity and make it more susceptible to irritation during treatment.
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Avoid Overlaying Other Facial Treatments
Avoid overlapping facial treatments, such as peels and microneedling, in the weeks before fractional CO2 laser treatment.
On the day of your treatment:
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Cleanse your skin
On the day of your treatment, ensure your skin is clean and free of any lotions, makeup, or other products to prevent any damage.
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Wear comfortable clothing
On the day of your treatment, wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid jewelry.
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Eat a light diet
Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine, which can increase skin sensitivity.
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Do not wear contact lenses.
Post-treatment Skin Care:
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Immediate Care
You may experience slight redness and swelling after treatment. Immediately apply burn ointment and ice for 30-60 minutes. This will help reduce swelling and promote comfort.
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Maintain moisturization
For the first 7 days after surgery, apply a medical mask morning and night, growth factor gel, and burn ointment 3-4 times a day to promote epidermal healing. If possible, apply artificial skin. Moisturizing is more effective, as a moist environment is more conducive to wound healing (apply burn ointment every 4-6 hours plus artificial skin). Note: (Growth factors are not needed for hypertrophic scars.)
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Gentle Cleansing
Do not wash your face with raw water for 1-5 days after surgery to prevent bacterial infection. Rinse with clean water only after a scab has formed.
Do not pick at scabs. After 7-10 days, after the scabs have fallen off naturally, gently cleanse with a facial cleanser. Apply hydroquinone cream or tranexamic acid to prevent discoloration.
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Avoid high-heat exercise
Avoid hot baths, saunas, hot showers, strenuous exercise, and other heat-generating activities, as these can increase inflammation and delay healing.
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Be mindful of your diet
Avoid spicy foods and alcohol for one week after treatment.
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Stay hydrated and use sunscreen
We recommend using SPF 30+ sunscreen or physical sunscreen (hat, mask, etc.).
Since fractional CO2 laser treatment is primarily performed on the face, we emphasize pre- and post-treatment skin care and adhere to the above guidelines to minimize any impact on treatment effectiveness. If you experience any discomfort after treatment, please contact your treating physician immediately for assistance.
