After C02RE Laser Skin Resurfacing

Immediately After:

  • We will apply occlusive ointment slightly thicker for the ride home.
  • You will be supplied with cooling compresses post treatment. Please bring a wide-brimmed hat or a visor to wear when walking from the practice to the car to avoid direct sunlight to the face.
  • Turn on air conditioner in the car and aim air at treated areas.
  • If glasses are worn, we will place a piece of gauze between the bridge of the nose and glasses to avoid irritation to the treated skin.

First 2-4 hours after treatment:

  • You may take an analgesic (i.e. Tylenol or Ibuprofen) or a prescription (Norco) for discomfort.
  • Apply cooling compresses. Avoid direct application of ice to the skin (frozen hand towels, frozen peas, or cool packs work best).
  • A fan to the race will also help with the cooling process.
  • Keep treated areas covered with occlusive ointment enough to give the areas a ‘glossy’ look. Cream should be used up to 4 days.
  • Continue with the acyclovir until gone.

First Night:

  • Sleep on your back with 2-3 pillows under your head to keep It slightly elevated for up to 3 nights or until swelling subsides.
  • Place a towel over the pillow to protect pillow from occlusive ointment
  • If irritation to the eye occurs. lubrication such as Systane or Lacrilube may be used.
  • Avoid environmental irritants during healing process (such as dust, dirt, sun, and hairspray)

Day 2:

  • Begin to wash face up to 3-4 times a day with a gentle cleanser and tepid water.
  • Itching (especially along jaw line) tends to begin on this day. Extra occlusive ointment and cool compresses may be applied. If itching Is not relieved, oral histamine such as Benadryl or Claritin can be taken
  • AVOID picking and scratching

Day 3:

  • Continue to wash face up to 3-4 times a day with gentle cleanser and tepid water.
  • Itching may persist.
  • The central aspect of the face will begin to exfoliate today leaving behind soft pink tissue

Day 4-7:

  • Itching usually subsides.
  • Mineral makeup may now be applied to treated areas.
  • A light moisturizer can be used on the face but spot treat drier areas with occlusive ointment.
  • Non-irritating sunscreen must be applied to face when going outside.
  • Apply aloe cert 5-7 days post op

Day 7 and up:

  • Your skin care regimen can resume on this day as long as treated areas are healed.
  • Exercise may be /resumed
  • Continue to apply a non-Irritating sunscreen and use mineral make-up to protect the treated areas.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure for up to 4 weeks. Hal or clothing must be worn to protect the treated are

3 weeks Post-op:

  • Resume Hydroqurnone and Retin A

For Off the Face Procedures:

  • Neck. Chest, Hands: Follow instructions for days two and three for up to 5 days. then resume from regular instructions.

Please do not hesitate to call us about any problems, questions, or concerns that you may have.

Office phone: Pekin#Pekin Office Phone Number (309) 353-4111 Peoria#Peoria Office Phone Number (309) 683-3223. After hours telephone: Dr. Merheb #309-868-2525