If you have just received Active/Total FX fractional laser resurfacing, please read the following post care instructions carefully and follow them closely. Call if you have any questions or concerns.
After your treatment your skin will feel like a sun burn for the first hour or so. Cold compresses can provide comfort.
Swelling is expected, especially for the first 2-3 days. Cool compresses may be used for comfort and to reduce swelling. Avoid salt, as it will increase swelling. Try to sleep with your head elevated, this will also help with swelling. It is normal for your skin to feel tight and somewhat uncomfortable. Swelling can be particularly noticeable and uncomfortable around the eyes. This is normal and expected.
You will not have to wash your face the day of your treatment.
The morning after your treatment, wash your face with a gentle cleanser (Cetaphil or any other mild cleanser). Use your fingertips, not a washcloth to cleanse. You may shower. Lightly pat your skin dry with a towel.
After you wash your face, apply a thin layer of a gentle moisturizer. If you go outside, use a sunscreen with high amounts of zinc and titanium. You can reapply the moisturizer throughout the day if you feel dry.
On Days 3-5 your skin will probably start to flake and peel. Do not pick at the flaking skin. Picking can cause scarring. Peeling will take a few days to resolve.
If you experience excessive itching as the skin heals, you can use an over the counter topical hydrocortisone sparingly.
Do not use any other products until instructed to do so. This includes Retin-A, fruit acid products, peeling products, etc.
Do not use makeup until instructed to do so.
Please do not hesitate to call our office at 855.383.7546 if you have any questions or concerns about your treatments. After hours, if you have an urgent situation that you feel cannot wait until the next business day please call 800.313.6757 and follow the prompts to page the on-call provider.