Post-Procedure Skin Care Instructions
For Ablative Resurfacing Treatments
(Fractional CO₂ Laser, Deep Chemical Peel, Dermabrasion, Plasma Laser)
Overview
Proper post-procedure care is essential for optimal healing and results following ablative skin resurfacing. Your treatment may range in intensity, and not all instructions may apply to every case. When in doubt, always contact us for guidance.
- Office Hours Inquiries: Call us directly.
- After-Hours Support: Text Dr. Lipschitz at (972) 333-4870.
Understanding Downtime and Healing
Healing time varies depending on:
- Procedure Type: CO₂ laser, chemical peel, dermabrasion, or plasma
- Treated Area: Mouth heals faster than forehead
- Depth of Treatment: Deeper treatments require longer recovery
- Skin Type, Age & Health
- Adherence to Skin Care Protocols
- Genetic Healing Tendencies
General Do’s and Don’ts
✅ Do:
- Cleanse skin with gentle cleanser and lukewarm water twice daily (starting the day after procedure)
- Keep skin continuously moist with a thick layer of Aquaphor
- Hydrate well internally—drink water regularly
- Take Acyclovir (if prone to cold sores)
- Take antibiotics (if prescribed for acne-prone skin)
- Strictly avoid sun exposure for at least the first week
- Apply tinted mineral sunscreen once peeling has completed
- Keep activity low and avoid sweating for several days
❌ Don’t:
- Rub, scratch, or peel your skin
- Use makeup or prescription topicals unless advised
- Engage in strenuous exercise early in healing
- Use NSAIDs, Vitamin E, garlic, ginseng or blood-thinning supplements 1 week before and 48 hours after procedure
Day-by-Day Healing Timeline
Day 0: Procedure Day
- No cleansing or showering
- Apply Aquaphor immediately post-procedure
- Use cold compresses as needed (with vinegar solution: 2 spoons vinegar per 12 oz cold water)
- Apply Hydrocortisone 1% ointment (if instructed)
Days 1–4: “Pink Skin” Phase
- Expect swelling (Day 2–3), mild discomfort, and tightness
- Cleanse skin with Cetaphil, rinse with lukewarm water
- Continue cold compresses, especially if itchy or uncomfortable
- Never pick or rub healing skin
- Continue antiviral and any prescribed medications
- Use 2 pillows to sleep with head elevated
Days 3–6: “Brown Skin” Phase
- Skin begins to scab and peel—do not pick
- Clean and moisturize skin gently, allowing natural shedding
- Cold compresses may be stopped unless desired
1–2 Weeks: “Red Skin” Phase
- New skin appears red/pink and is extremely sensitive
- Switch from ointment to moisturizing creams (e.g., Cetaphil or Vanicream)
- Makeup may be used if necessary
- Begin strict sun protection: sunblock every 2 hours, wide-brim hats, sunglasses
Discoloration Phase (Weeks After Procedure)
Pink Discoloration
- Common in fair-skinned individuals; cover with makeup
- Protect diligently with sunscreen
Brown Discoloration (PIH)
- More common in darker skin tones
- Avoid sun and irritating environments
- Use camouflage makeup or bleaching creams (e.g., Hydroquinone) as prescribed
- Resume lightening regimen 2–3 weeks post-procedure if advised
Final Results: 3–4 Months
- Collagen remodeling continues up to a year post-treatment
- Skin will steadily improve in tone, texture, and clarity
- For best results, follow all aftercare and schedule your follow-up visits
Follow-Up Schedule
- Day 2 Post-Treatment
- 2 Weeks Post-Treatment
- 6 Weeks Post-Treatment
Follow-ups are complimentary.
When to Call
- Severe pain, pus, increased redness/swelling: Possible infection
- Blurry vision, light sensitivity (if treated around eyes): Avoid driving
- Persistent hyperpigmentation or irritation: May need follow-up treatment
📞 Contact Information
- Office Hours: Call us directly
- After Hours: Text Dr. Lipschitz at (972) 333-4870
