Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery
The quality of your skin is one of the first things people notice about you. Have aging, sun spots, or acne scars left your skin looking tired and dull?
Dr. Christopher Hove offers many non-surgical treatments, including laser skin resurfacing. If you want to achieve tighter, more youthful-looking skin, this treatment may be right for you. Before undergoing treatment, many patients want to know what the laser skin resurfacing recovery process will be like. During your consultation at our Paoli, PA practice, we can discuss any questions you have about the healing process.
Laser Skin Resurfacing: An Overview
Laser skin resurfacing is a non-surgical, cosmetic treatment that removes old or dead skin layers to reveal smoother, clearer skin.
The procedure lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, and can be used to target wrinkles, acne, scars, fine lines, or visible sun damage.
During a consultation with Dr. Hove, you can find out if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Candidacy is often based on your treatment expectations and the health and appearance of your skin.
At our practice, Dr. Hove only utilizes a CO2 laser, which is considered the gold standard in laser skin resurfacing.
What to Expect during Recovery
This outpatient procedure reveals healthier layers of skin. It will take time for your body to heal completely. Expect to see new, refreshed skin after three weeks, and expect some redness to linger for up to three months.
Recovery Care Reminders
Your skin is more sensitive after laser skin resurfacing treatment. Treat your skin delicately and with extra care during the first month after the procedure.
During this time, don’t forget to:
- Use sunscreen daily, especially on your face, neck, chest, and hands
- Wear a hat outdoors when possible.
- Keep the skin moisturized. Use any special creams Dr. Hove may recommend to prevent scabs from forming.
- Only return to using a Retin-A product once Dr. Hove gives the okay. Using it too early can be damaging on delicate, recovering skin.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
Recovery Timeline
After the first day, patients should carefully clean the face and apply moisturizing ointments.
Take any pain or other medications that may be prescribed to you by Dr. Hove.
Expect to experience some swelling after the procedure. Keeping your head elevated at night will help decrease inflammation and promote swelling.
Itching or a mild burning sensation is common during the first few days after the procedure.
In about a week, patients will notice their skin starting to peel; this is completely normal and the result of effective laser skin resurfacing treatment.
The initial recovery is typically reached 10 to 21 days after the procedure. Continued improvement should be visible after three months.
Contact Hove Center to Learn More
Are you interested in a total skin makeover? Dr. Hove can provide excellent care for facial plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. A board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hove can help you achieve the appearance you’ve always wanted. Contact our practice online or call us at (610) 647-3727 to schedule your consultation.