Short answer: After CO2 laser, follow the exact cleansing, moisturising and protection instructions given by your treating clinic. Keep the skin clean as directed, use only approved products, avoid picking or exfoliating, reduce heat and sun exposure, and contact the clinic if recovery is worsening or differs from the plan provided.
Aftercare is part of the treatment, not an optional extra. Because CO2 laser resurfacing temporarily disrupts the skin barrier, the early recovery period needs a simple and carefully controlled routine.
The First 24 Hours
Your skin may feel warm, tight or sensitive and may appear red or swollen. Follow the clinic’s instructions about when and how to cleanse the area. Do not add products because they are marketed as calming or natural. Even familiar ingredients can irritate freshly treated skin.
General priorities commonly include:
- Clean hands before touching the treated area
- Use only the recommended cleanser, dressing or moisturising product
- Avoid rubbing, scratching or picking
- Stay away from direct sun, excessive heat and heavy sweating
- Keep in contact with the clinic if you have concerns
As Dryness and Peeling Develop
Dryness, flaking, peeling or crusting may occur as the surface heals. Let this process happen naturally. Pulling loose skin or using a scrub can create unnecessary trauma and may increase the risk of delayed healing, infection or pigment change.
Continue the recommended barrier-support routine. Do not restart acids, retinoids, exfoliants, strong vitamin C or other active products until your clinician says your skin is ready.
Sun Protection on the Gold Coast
Ultraviolet exposure is a major consideration during CO2 recovery. Stay out of direct sun during the advised period and use physical protection such as shade and a hat. Your clinician will advise when and how to apply sunscreen to the treated skin.
Long-term broad-spectrum sun protection remains important after the early recovery phase. Laser cannot prevent new sun damage.
What Should You Avoid?
- Picking, peeling or exfoliating the skin
- Unapproved active skincare
- Hot showers, saunas and steam rooms during the restricted period
- Swimming until the clinic confirms it is appropriate
- Heavy exercise while heat and sweating need to be limited
- Makeup before the surface has healed sufficiently
What Aftercare Is Included at That Face Place?
At the Palm Beach clinic, every CO2 appointment includes post-treatment LED therapy and a complete aftercare kit. A follow-up review is also scheduled so the team can assess your recovery and guide the next stage of your routine.
The CO2 pathway is led by Michelle Beddoes using the AcuPulse by Lumenis. You can learn more about the team and clinical approach on the Meet the Experts page.
When Should You Contact the Clinic?
Contact the treating clinic promptly if pain, swelling or redness is increasing rather than settling, if you notice unusual discharge, spreading redness, blisters or other unexpected changes, or if you feel unwell. If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash my face after CO2 laser?
Follow the timing and cleansing method provided by your clinic. Do not use your usual cleanser unless it has been approved for the early recovery stage.
Can I use moisturiser after CO2 laser?
Use only the moisturising or barrier product recommended in your aftercare plan. Avoid introducing new products during early recovery.
When can I restart retinol or acids?
Wait until your clinician confirms the skin barrier has recovered sufficiently. Restart timing varies with treatment intensity and healing.
Should I peel loose skin?
No. Allow flaking or peeling to release naturally. Picking can increase irritation and complication risk.
For CO2 laser aftercare guidance following treatment at That Face Place, contact the Palm Beach clinic.
