You’ve just taken the plunge and refreshed your skin with laser skin resurfacing near Parkville, MO—but now what? Your journey to radiant, rejuvenated skin doesn’t end when the laser turns off. Proper aftercare is key to maximizing your results and ensuring a smooth recovery.
Kansas City Skin & Cancer Center is here to make sure you have the best laser resurfacing experience, even after you walk out our front door. If you’re not sure what to do after your treatment, we’ve got you covered.
In this blog, we’re breaking down 4 essential recovery tips to help you heal beautifully and make the most of your treatment.
1. Hydrate & Moisturize
Laser skin resurfacing typically works by removing the damaged outer layer of the skin. During the healing process, your new skin may temporarily dry out. This can lead to flakiness and general tightness in your skin.
Keeping your skin properly moisturized after your laser treatment helps to relieve this dryness while also strengthening your skin barrier. Use a gentle, fragrance free moisturizer that’s recommended by your provider at least twice daily.
Hydration goes beyond applying moisturizer. Refreshed skin starts with a well-hydrated body. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water after your treatment to aid in the regeneration process.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
After a treatment, your skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are emitted by the sun and may cause damage after laser skin resurfacing, such as hyperpigmentation and irritation.
For the first few days after your treatment, try to stay indoors as much as possible. When you do go outside, take some precautions to limit UV ray exposure. It’s the perfect time to bust out that scarf you’ve had stashed in your dresser, or maybe try out that long-brimmed hat you’ve been saving for a special occasion.
Along with this, wear high SPF sunscreen, and reapply as necessary. Even sunlight through a window can cause damage to the skin, so apply it every morning, whether or not you plan on staying indoors.
3. Skip Harsh Products & Cleanse Regularly
The top layer of your skin acts as a natural barrier against bacteria and contaminants. Since laser skin resurfacing removes the top layer of skin, the new, fresh skin underneath may need some extra care to help it become the best barrier it can be.
Ensure you cleanse your treated skin twice daily with gentle, fragrance free cleansers. Until your skin has fully recovered, try to avoid harsh exfoliating products, as well as products that contain retinoids or alcohol.
4. Be Patient with Results
The results of laser skin resurfacing don’t appear overnight—your skin needs time to properly heal and regenerate after the treatment. Laser skin resurfacing not only removes the damaged outer layer of the skin, but also stimulates collagen production.
Collagen plays an important role in our skin’s health, and we have it to thank for our skin’s elasticity and structure. By increasing your body’s natural production, you will see continued benefits over the next few weeks after treatment.
Brighter Days (and Skin) Ahead!
Taking care of your skin after laser resurfacing is the secret to achieving a long-lasting glow. With gentle cleansing, plenty of hydration, proper sun protection, and a little patience, you’ll be on your way to radiant skin in no time!
Our team at Kansas City Skin & Cancer Center is here to be your partner in all laser services, from laser skin resurfacing near Parkville, MO, to laser hair and scar removal. If you want to learn more about other powerful laser services, read our blogs on laser scar removal in Kansas City and laser hair removal near Parkville, MO, for more information.
If you have more questions about laser skin resurfacing, contact us, or begin a virtual consultation to see if the treatment may be right for you!
