Pre-Care Instructions – Alma CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing

• Sun Exposure: Minimize sun exposure in the treatment area for at least 2 weeks before and after treatment.
  Tanning Beds: Refrain from using tanning beds 4 weeks before and after treatment.
• Sun Protection: If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Medications: Disclose all medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Skin Preparation:
  • Cleanliness: Shower or bathe before your appointment to ensure clean skin. (if possible)
  • Lotions/Oils: Avoid applying lotions, oils, or any other products to the treatment area on the day of your appointment.
• Topical Products: Discontinue the use of any topical products that may irritate the skin (e.g., retinoids, AHAs, BHAs) for at least 3 days prior to treatment.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment to ensure proper hydration.

What to Expect on the Day of CO2 Laser Resurfacing

On the day of your CO2 laser resurfacing procedure, follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as discontinuing certain topical creams or medications in advance.

1. Anesthesia and Preparation:

• To ensure your comfort, your provider will apply a local anesthesia to numb the skin and treatment areas. Once numb, your skin will be thoroughly cleaned, and you’ll be given protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser.

2. The Procedure:

• The provider will slowly move the laser wand across the treatment area, delivering precise energy to target the skin. The treatment duration can vary:
• Partial-face treatments typically take 30-45 minutes, while a full-face treatment may last 1.5 to 2 hours.
• During the procedure, you may be given an ice pack to apply to the treated area for 15 minutes to help reduce swelling.

3. Post-Treatment Care:

• After the treatment, your provider will apply an antibacterial ointment and a non-stick dressing to the treated skin. You’ll be instructed to leave this dressing on for around 24 hours to protect the area while it begins healing.
• Once your procedure is complete, your provider will provide you with specific post-treatment care instructions to follow at home.

CO2 Laser Resurfacing Recovery
Recovery times can vary based on the area treated and the intensity of the laser. Follow these guidelines for optimal healing:

1. Wound Care:

• You may be asked to clean the treated areas 2-5 times a day with a saline solution or a dilute vinegar mixture. After cleaning, apply an ointment like Vaseline, Eucerin, or Aquaphor to the skin. This helps prevent scab formation, which can lead to scarring and lengthen recovery time.

2. Healing Time:

• Typically, treated areas will begin healing within 10 to 21 days, but healing time can vary. The stronger the laser settings, the longer the recovery period may be.

3. Post-Treatment Appearance:

• After healing, you may experience pink-to-red skin at the treated site, which generally fades within 2 to 3 months, though it can take up to 6 months for complete resolution.
• Once fully healed, you can use oil-free makeup to conceal any remaining redness or discoloration.

4. Sun Protection:

• Avoid sun exposure for at least 4 weeks before and after the procedure. Apply sunscreen liberally during the recovery period to protect the treated skin and prevent further damage.

By following these instructions and giving your skin proper care, you can maximize your results and promote a smoother, more youthful appearance.