Ablative laser skin resurfacing can completely rejuvenate your complexion—reducing fine lines, smoothing texture, and fading years of sun damage. But the real magic happens after the treatment, during the healing process.
Your post-treatment care is what determines whether you’ll enjoy glowing, youthful skin or experience avoidable irritation. Here are the top 10 mistakes to avoid after ablative laser skin resurfacing to ensure a smooth recovery and lasting results.
1. Skipping Sun Protection
Freshly treated skin is highly sensitive to UV rays. Even brief sun exposure can cause pigmentation and slow healing.
Always wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+, reapply often, and limit time outdoors—especially during peak hours.
If you’re unsure how to safely protect your skin post-treatment, check this expert guide from NW Face & Body.
2. Picking or Touching the Skin
As your skin heals, you may notice flaking or scabbing. It can be tempting to pick at peeling skin—but doing so increases the risk of scarring and infection.
Let your skin shed naturally. A gentle cleanser and hydrating ointment will help soothe tightness.
3. Using Harsh or Active Skincare Too Soon
Avoid exfoliants, retinoids, and acids until your provider clears you. Applying these too early can trigger redness, irritation, or even burns.
Stick to calming, barrier-repair products for at least 1–2 weeks.
For more recovery tips, visit NW Face & Body.
4. Over-Cleansing or Scrubbing
Your skin needs gentle care—not deep cleansing.
Use a mild, non-foaming cleanser and avoid scrubs, washcloths, or exfoliating devices until fully healed.
5. Skipping Moisturizer
Ablative laser treatments remove the outer skin layer, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and tightness.
Hydration is key—use a fragrance-free, ceramide-rich moisturizer to restore your skin’s barrier and support recovery.
6. Ignoring Signs of Infection
Redness and swelling are normal early on, but if you notice yellow crusts, persistent pain, or pus, contact your provider immediately.
Prompt care can prevent complications and preserve your results.
7. Wearing Makeup Too Soon
Your skin needs time to breathe and regenerate. Applying makeup before the surface heals can introduce bacteria and slow recovery.
Most providers recommend waiting 7–10 days or until your skin stops flaking.
8. Exercising Too Early
Sweating increases the risk of irritation and infection during the healing phase.
Avoid intense workouts, hot showers, and saunas for at least one week—or until your provider gives the go-ahead.
9. Neglecting Follow-Up Appointments
Your skin’s recovery is unique. Regular follow-ups help your provider monitor healing and adjust your aftercare plan.
Don’t skip them—they’re essential to achieving smooth, even results.
10. Expecting Instant Results
Laser skin resurfacing delivers incredible results, but patience is key.
It can take several weeks for redness to fade and new collagen to form. The outcome—a brighter, smoother complexion—will be worth the wait.
Protecting Your Results Long-Term
To maintain your glow, continue a consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansers, nourishing moisturizers, and daily SPF. Avoid harsh treatments until your provider confirms your skin is ready.
At NW Face & Body, patients receive personalized aftercare guidance following CO₂ laser resurfacing to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting rejuvenation. Their experts emphasize that the right post-care plan can make all the difference in your final outcome.
Final Thoughts
Your skin’s recovery after laser resurfacing is just as important as the procedure itself.
Avoiding these common mistakes and following your provider’s advice will help you achieve the refreshed, radiant look you deserve.
To learn more about what to avoid after CO₂ laser treatment, visit NW Face & Body or explore their full range of advanced skin rejuvenation services at NW Face & Body.
