Before & After Care

Your Laser Skin Resurfacing Care Guide

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Pre-Treatment

  • Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanner for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.
    Sun exposure significantly increases the risk of complications.
  • Discontinue sun-sensitizing antibiotics (doxycycline, Bactrim, Levaquin) for 1 week before treatment.
  • Do not use Accutane for at least 6 months before treatment.
  • Avoid Botox or filler injections for a minimum of 2 weeks before treatment.
  • Discontinue topical retinols/retinoids, chemical or enzyme peels, exfoliants, topical antibiotics, exfoliating masks, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, acne products, and AHA/BHA acids for 7 days prior to treatment.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol for 5 days before treatment.
  • Increase water intake to 48–64 oz daily for 3–5 days prior to treatment and continue for 24 hours after treatment.
  • If you have a history of cold sores in the treatment area, begin antiviral medication 48 hours prior to treatment as advised.

Post-Treatment

General Care

  • Gently wash the treated area twice daily using a mild cleanser.
  • Apply Barrier Restoring Cream or a gentle moisturizer AM and PM for 7 days.
  • Begin applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ after 24 hours.
    A medical-grade SPF (e.g., EltaMD) is recommended.
  • Avoid active skincare products for 7 days, including:
    • Retinol, Retin-A, retinoids (Vitamin A)
    • Vitamins C & E
    • Niacinamide or ceramide-based products
    • Hydroquinone
    • Benzoyl peroxide
    • AHAs, BHAs, PHAs
    • Exfoliating acids (glycolic, lactic, salicylic)
    • Physical exfoliants or scrubs

First 24 Hours

  • Expect the skin to feel hot or sunburned — this is normal.
  • You may apply cool compresses (not ice) for comfort.
  • Take Tylenol or ibuprofen as needed for discomfort.
  • Avoid makeup during this time.
  • Avoid sun exposure, exercise, saunas, and jacuzzis.

Days 1–2

  • Skin may be red, swollen, tight, or rough in texture.
  • Continue gentle washing and applying moisturizer and SPF.
  • Mineral makeup may be worn starting Day 1, if necessary.

Days 3–5

  • Mild flaking or peeling is expected.
  • Do not scrub, pick, or peel the skin.
  • Continue your gentle cleanse → moisturize → SPF routine.

Days 7–10

  • Skin should feel softer, and healing is typically complete.
  • For more aggressive treatments, healing may take up to 2 weeks.
  • You may resume active skincare products when healing is complete.