CO2 and UltraClear laser skin rejuvenation are powerful and effective laser resurfacing treatments that improve skin texture, reducing wrinkles, addressing sun damage, and treating various skin imperfections. However, these advanced laser skin rejuvenation procedures that deliver significant results come with a recovery period that requires patience and care. Manage your results—and expectations—more effectively by scrolling below to better understand the CO2 and UltraClear laser recovery and healing process.
CO2 and UltraClear Laser Recovery Day by Day
While everyone varies, fractional laser treatments require at least a few days of downtime, and it can take several weeks to achieve your desired results. Recovery often depends on the type of laser used and the extent of your treatment. Our UltraClear® , Active FX and Deep FX CO2 lasers are highly customizable, which means they can address your unique needs and concerns from light skin resurfacing to comprehensive repair and rejuvenation.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect during the CO2 or UltraClear laser healing process:
Day 1: your procedure
The CO2 and UltraClear lasers create micro-damage to your skin and collagen, triggering the body’s natural wound healing process to rebuild and restore your skin to a more youthful state. We apply a topical numbing cream to the area to minimize discomfort during and after treatment. Immediately after CO2 or UltraClear laser, the treated skin feels warm, similar to a sunburn, and appears red and swollen. This is normal and should be an expected reaction. You may also experience a temporary stinging sensation and mild oozing or pinpoint bleeding depending on the depth of treatment.
Days 2 to 3: healing (and peeling!) sets in
The treated skin typically dries, crusts, and scabs during this critical phase. Healthy skin regeneration is hard at work underneath. This critical stage of healing prompts peeling to intensify. Keeping the skin moist and hydrated eases and accelerates the healing process. Any discomfort diminishes as your skin continues to heal and rebuild.
Days 4 to 5: out with the old…
The outer layer of the treated skin begins to exfoliate and slough off, and pinkish, fresh skin emerges underneath. Dilute vinegar and water compresses expedites this exfoliation process. Be careful to avoid rubbing or picking at the skin to prevent premature sloughing and potential scarring.
Days 6 to 7: healthy skin emerges
As you approach the end of the first week, nearly all peeling subsides, revealing smoother, younger-looking skin. However, the new skin still appears pink or slightly red. You may be able to wear makeup to camouflage these effects. Sunscreen is a must! Continue to practice a gentle skincare routine, avoiding active anti-aging serums like retinol and alpha hydroxy acids.
Weeks 2 to 3: the home stretch of healing
Most redness and sensitivity fade by the second week, although your skin may still appear slightly pink. You can transition back to your regular skincare routine at this stage, but it’s essential to diligently use sun protection as your skin is still highly sensitive to UV rays.
Weeks 3 to 4: get ready to show off your stunning skin
You’re almost there! Any remaining pinkness has faded, and you can begin to appreciate the full benefits of your CO2 or UltraClear laser treatment. Your skin looks rejuvenated, smoother, and more youthful. If you’ve had laser for scar removal, you will notice a more even skin tone and texture, although treating deep acne scars may require multiple laser sessions. Typically your skin will be reevaluated at 6 months before a second CO2 or UltraClear laser will be performed as your results will continue to improve during this time.
CO2 and UltraClear Laser Under Eye Recovery Time
The delicate skin around the eyes often requires special attention during CO2 laser recovery and healing. It’s possible for under eye skin to become swollen and feel tighter than other treated facial areas. Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the under eyes during the initial healing stages. Administering cold compresses and prescribed ointments enhances comfort. We suggest wearing sunglasses and using sunscreen for extra protection of the sensitive under eyes during healing and beyond. If UltraClear laser coring is performed, you will notice a temporary grid-like appearance to your skin from the channels produced by the laser beam. The laser safely penetrates the skin, removing extra skin allowing the skin to contract, firm and tighten.
UltraClear Laser vs CO2 Active FX and Deep FX
UltraClear Laser uses a cold fiber technology that stands out from other skin rejuvenation treatments for several reasons:
Versatility: The treatment targets a wide range of skin issues, including fine lines, deep wrinkles, age spots, scars (including acne scars), and overall skin tone and texture. UltraClear laser is able to address multiple skin concerns in a single session, making it a game-changer in the world of aesthetic treatments
Suitability for All Skin Types: Thanks to its innovative technology, UltraClear Laser minimizes unwanted thermal damage while maximizing results, making it safe and effective for all skin types
Comfort and Convenience: With no surgery, needles, or sutures required, UltraClear Laser offers a non-invasive solution with minimal downtime. Many patients find it less painful than CO2 and have a quicker recovery. Aggressive treatments still require 5 days of downtime.
Treatments are quick, typically taking 30 minutes or less for a full face, making it perfect for those with busy schedules.
The Science Behind UltraClear Laser
At the heart of UltraClear Laser’s effectiveness is its revolutionary 3DMIRACL® and 3DIntelliPulse® technology. These advanced systems combine decades of experience in aesthetic lasers with precise energy control, resulting in superior efficacy and safety.
The treatment works through a presumed mechanism of dermal remodeling, stimulating collagen production and rejuvenating the skin from within. This approach allows for a range of treatment intensities, from light laser peels to deep collagen remodeling, all with significantly less pain than competing technologies.
Setting Yourself Up For a Smooth Recovery
If you’re wondering how can I speed up healing after CO2 or UltraClear laser treatments, the key is to follow your provider’s instructions. You can ensure a smoother recovery and better results by avoiding picking at treated skin, keeping healing skin moist and hydrated, using sunscreen, and using gentle skin products. Staying hydrated and eating healthy also promotes healthy skin renewal. If you’re concerned about downtime, you may be better suited for a gentler Fraxel® laser or Radiofrequency microneedling or microneedling with an added skin booster treatment. Rest assured that Dr. Yanes and I guide you toward the treatment that best aligns with your needs and goals.
Take the Next Step!
Understanding the day-to-day healing process and following our protocols sets you up for a smoother and quicker recovery. However, we’re always here to address your questions and concerns at any point during your aesthetic journey. Please request a consultation online or call us at (202) 393-7546 to explore CO2 laser or our other rejuvenating treatments.
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