SUMMARY
Proper aftercare is crucial for achieving the best results from your Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment and minimizing the risk of complications. Please read and follow these instructions carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact our office at 808-261-1121.

Expect redness, swelling, and a warm “sunburn” sensation for several days — this is normal.

The skin will bronze, crust, and peel over 3–7 days; do not pick or scrub the peeling skin.

Apply a thick occlusive moisturizer (Aquaphor, Vaseline) as directed to protect the healing barrier.

Avoid hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and sweating for 72 hours.

Avoid makeup until the skin is fully closed (typically 5–7 days).

Sleep with your head elevated for the first 1–2 nights to reduce swelling.

Avoid retinoids, acids, scrubs, exfoliating brushes, and active skincare for 2 weeks.

Avoid direct sun exposure for 4 weeks and use SPF 30+ daily once healed.

Tiny pinpoint oozing or crusting is normal; gently cleanse with a mild cleanser as instructed.

If you experience increasing redness, warmth, or pus, contact us immediately.

Appearance & Sensation: Expect the treated area to be red, swollen, and feel warm, similar to a moderate to severe sunburn. You may experience pinpoint bleeding, oozing, or a "grid" pattern from the laser. These are normal reactions.

Cool Compresses: Apply cool compresses (e.g., a soft cloth soaked in ice water, or gel packs wrapped in a soft cloth) to the treated area for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day for the first 1-2 days. This will help reduce swelling and discomfort. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.

Pain Management: You may take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) as directed. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin if possible, as they can increase bruising, unless prescribed by Dr. Schaefer or your primary physician.

Keep Head Elevated: When resting or sleeping, use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. This will help minimize swelling, especially if the face was treated.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which aids in the healing process.

Gentle Cleansing:

Starting the evening of your treatment or the next morning. Gently cleanse the treated area 2-3 times a day with a mild, non-irritating cleanser (e.g., Cetaphil®, CeraVe® Gentle Cleanse) and lukewarm water. Use your fingertips only – do NOT use a washcloth, scrub, or exfoliating device. Pat dry very gently with a clean, soft towel.

Moisturizer/Healing Ointment:

Apply a bland, hydrating moisturizer or a specific healing ointment (e.g., Aquaphor®, CeraVe® Healing Ointment) liberally and frequently to the treated area, especially after cleansing. Keeping the skin moist is crucial for healing and comfort. Reapply throughout the day as needed to prevent dryness.

Apply cooled sheet mask for 20 min once or twice a day,

Avoid Irritants: Do not apply any products to the treated area that have not been approved by Dr. Schaefer, including makeup, exfoliants, retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or perfumed products.

DAYS 3-7 (AND ONWARD UNTIL HEALED):

Healing Process: Your skin will likely feel very dry, tight, and may begin to peel, flake, or develop a "bronzed" appearance or fine coffee-ground-like crusting. DO NOT PICK, SCRATCH, RUB, OR PEEL THE SKIN. Allow it to shed naturally. Picking can lead to scarring, infection, or pigmentation problems.

Continued Cleansing & Moisturizing: Continue gentle cleansing and liberal application of moisturizer/healing ointment as described above.

Sun Protection (CRUCIAL):
Strict sun avoidance is mandatory. The newly treated skin is extremely sensitive to sunlight and prone to hyperpigmentation (darkening).

Avoid direct sun exposure completely for at least 1-2 weeks, or until the skin is fully healed.

Once the skin is no longer raw or oozing (usually around day 5-7, but follow Dr. Schaefer’s guidance), begin applying a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, even if indoors or on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors.

Makeup: You may typically resume wearing mineral-based makeup once the skin is no longer peeling or raw, and feels comfortable (usually 5-10 days post-treatmen). Ensure makeup brushes are clean.

Itching: Some itching is common as the skin heals. You may take an over-the-counter antihistamine (e.g., Benadryl®, Claritin®, Zyrtec®) if needed. Try not to scratch. Continue to apply moisturizer.

Shaving (Men): Avoid shaving the treated area until the skin is no longer sensitive or raw (typically 5-7 days, or as advised). When you resume, use a clean razor and be very gentle.

ACTIVITIES TO AVOID DURING HEALING (Typically 1-2 weeks, or as advised):
Strenuous Exercise: Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or flushing.
Hot Environments: Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and very hot showers/baths.
Swimming: Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean until the skin is fully healed to prevent infection.
Irritating Products: Continue to avoid harsh skincare products (retinoids, exfoliants, etc.) for 2-4 weeks.

WHEN TO CONTACT OUR OFFICE - Call 808-261-1121 if you experience:
Signs of infection: Increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling, pus-like discharge, or fever.
Severe or worsening pain not relieved by recommended measures.
Blistering (beyond very fine, expected pinpoint crusting).
Suspected allergic reaction to any product.
Any other concerns or unexpected reactions.

LONG-TERM CARE & RESULTS:

Sun Protection: Continued diligent sun protection is essential to maintain your results and protect your skin.

Results Timeline: Initial results may be visible once the initial healing phase is complete, but collagen remodeling and further improvements can continue for 3-6 months or longer. Multiple milder treatments may be needed for optimal results.

Initial redness will fade to pink, but skin can remain pink for several months.