Skin care after CO₂ laser — what to expect & how to recover
Your day-by-day care plan. Always follow the personalised instructions from your Santi clinician — they take priority.
Days 0–3: calm, clean, occlude
- Cleanse: cool/tepid water, very gentle cleanser; pat dry only.
- Occlude: apply healing ointment or occlusive barrier as instructed, several times daily.
- No picking: allow crusting to lift naturally; avoid makeup and active ingredients.
- Cool comfort: clean, cool compresses if advised.
Sleep with an extra pillow the first night to reduce swelling. Fresh pillowcases and towels only.
Days 4–7: protect & hydrate
- Transition to bland moisturiser when told; continue frequent hydration.
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 once skin can tolerate; shade and hats outdoors.
- Very gentle cleansing; still avoid acids/retinoids/vitamin C.
Weeks 2–4: rebuild routine
- Reintroduce actives slowly if advised; continue strict SPF.
- Redness may persist; mineral makeup usually OK.
Red flags — contact us urgently: increasing pain, pus, spreading redness, fever, sudden swelling, eye symptoms.
Do
- Do Keep skin continuously moisturised/occluded early on.
- Do Use fragrance-free, gentle products only.
- Do Wear SPF 50 and seek shade.
Don’t
- Don’t Pick, scrub, or peel flaking skin.
- Don’t Use saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, or intense workouts for ~1 week.
- Don’t Use retinoids/acids until cleared by your clinician.
Have these ready
- Bland cleanser & occlusive (per your pack).
- Thermal water or sterile saline spray.
- Mineral sunscreen SPF 50.
- Fresh pillowcases & soft towels.
Taking photos every few days can help track healing; bring them to your review if helpful.
FAQs
When can I wear makeup?
Often after day 5–7 once the surface has re-epithelialised. Choose mineral, fragrance-free products initially and remove gently.
How long is redness normal?
Pinkness can last weeks after deeper settings and fades gradually. Protect from sun/heat to avoid prolonged erythema.
Can I exercise?
Light walks are fine. Avoid heat, saunas and intense exercise for the first week or as advised.
What about antivirals or antibiotics?
Take only as prescribed. If you’re prone to cold sores and haven’t been given antivirals, contact the clinic for advice.