A: Typically, our skin takes about 5 – 7 days to heal after fractional CO2 laser. Although some people may take longer than this, probably up to 10 days or so. Basically, younger patients (<35 years old) recover faster. They normally take 5 days to see all the flakiness gone. Whereas for older patients, they will need around 7 days to look good again. Please bear in mind that this is only as a guideline and general rules. Every individual’s skin is different and the recovery period varies.
Usually the face will appear red on the first 3 days, more so on the first day. From second day onwards, the skin will have a sunburn look – tanned, dull and dry. On third day, the skin will feel rough and tight. It is starting to flake. Usually by fifth day, the peeling is completed. The new skin revealed will appear smoother, fairer, firmer, more supple with smaller pore size and scar lightened.
Depends on what is your indication for fractional CO2 laser, those who need a light dose, for instance just for a rejuvenation of the skin, will recover faster and the downtime will be barely noticeable. For those who want a total skin resurfacing and scar revision will definitely need a higher power and the downtime will be more severe and prolonged. But don’t worry, the skin will eventually recover well to produce good result! 😊
By Dr. Tan
