To ensure you get the best, safest results after your CO2 resurfacing treatment, please refer to the following instructions:
IMMEDIATELY AFTER TREATMENT:
- If you have a history of cold sores, you may be prescribed an antiviral medication (like Valtrex) to take before / after the procedure to prevent outbreaks.
- To minimize swelling, please add an extra pillow when laying down or sleeping to keep head elevated.
- Use a clean pillowcase and change frequently for the first week post-treatment.
- Always wash your hands before touching your face… and try not to touch your face. 😉
- Do not allow pets to sleep near you, nor lick the treated areas (for up to day 7)
- For the first 48-hours, please keep treatment area “shiny” with recommended ointment. (Our recommendation for maximized results and faster healing would be Regenerating Skin Nectar by Alastin!)
- Immediately after washing, or whenever skin feels uncomfortable, apply Alastin’s Regenerating Skin Nectar, or another lubricating ointment such as Aquaphor.
- Avoid exposure to the sun!
- A cool compress may be used, especially around the eyes, to help minimize swelling and inflammation.
- Please make sure the cold-compress is wrapped in something sterile.
- For more aggressive treatments, you may experience pinpoint bleeding, weeping or oozing.
48-HOURS AFTER TREATMENT:
- Wash the treatment area with gentle cleanser, gently blot dry with clean, soft towel.
- Do not scrub or exfoliate treatment area!
- Reapply post-treatment product every 3-4 hours to keep area moist.
- Use sunscreen religiously: Use a daily application of broad-spectrum, mineral based sunscreen with SPF-45 or higher, even on cloudy days.
BEST PRACTICES FOR DAYS 1-7+ AFTER TREATMENT:
- Avoid prolonged, direct sunlight: Minimize sun exposure, especially for the first 10 to 14-days after treatment.
- Avoid heat: Stay away from hot showers, saunas, and hot tubs for at least 48-hours.
- Avoid sweaty exercising: Refrain from strenuous activities that can cause excessive sweating for 10 to 14 days after treatment.
DAY 7+ AFTER TREATMENT: You can resume regular skin routine
- If any of your regular products cause discomfort, wash your face with cool water and try again next day.
- You can resume wearing makeup days 7 to 14 after treatment. (For makeup, please make sure to use clean / freshly sanitized brushes and sponges)
YOUR GOLDEN RULES FOR POST-TREATMENT EXCELLENCE:
- Follow up: If you have any concerns or questions, please contact us, we’re here for you!
- Be patient! Temporary redness, swelling, or soreness are normal signs of healing.
VINEGAR SOAK RECIPE:
Vinegar Soaks may help skin feel better 3+ days after a more aggressive CO2 treatment, this refreshing at-home “treatment” can help relieve any itchy, hot, or uncomfortable feelings.
Recipe:
- 1 Tbsp distilled white vinegar
- 1 Cup water
Mix the two liquids together, and moisten gauze or washcloth with mixture. Apply saturated gauze/washcloth to the desired area for a few minutes.
This process can be completed multiple times throughout the day. For extra soothing, keep extra solution in the refrigerator.
Please keep in mind: CO2 resurfacing treatments will get you beautiful results after one session, but on average the best results are achieved when done as a series; once a month for at least 2-months. Once you achieve your desired results, you can switch to a yearly maintenance plan for upkeep.
