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.
Immediately after your treatment:
Your skin will feel sun burnt for the first hour or so. Cold compresses can comfort.
For the first 2-3 days:
Swelling is expected, especially for the first 2-3 days. Cool compresses may be used for comfort and to reduce swelling. Avoid salt – this will increase swelling. Try to sleep with your head elevated to 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). 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 make up until instructed to do so.
If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to call 866.323.0039. If you need to reach us after hours please call our after hours paging system that will connect you to our medical team. The after hours paging system can be accessed by calling 866.323.0039 and following the prompts.