Laser Skin Resurfacing Post Operative Instructions

(Outpatient Surgical Facility)

First Week After Procedure

Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated 30–45 degrees. Use a recliner, wedge pillow, or multiple pillows.
Apply cool compresses for 15–20 minutes every hour while awake for the first 3 days. NO DIRECT ICE. NO ICE-PACK.
Get up slowly and walk slowly but regularly with assistance to promote circulation.
Avoid bending, straining, or lifting.
You may feel weak and dehydrated, so be careful of falling. Stay hydrated.
You may shower 24 hours after the procedure, but be careful of falling. No bathing.
NO HOT WATER. Use cool water on the face.
Do not rub or pick at the face. Do not use soaps or cleansers on the face. Use cool water only on the face.
Do not rub a towel on the face to dry. Gently dab with a clean paper towel.

START YOUR ANTIVIRAL medications 72 hours before your procedure and continue until finished.
Take antibiotics as prescribed until finished. Notify the office if you have any reactions.
Use prescribed pain medication or Tylenol if pain is mild.
Do not exceed 4,000 mg of Tylenol in 24 hours.
Use your nausea medication as needed.
Begin stool softener when taking narcotic pain medication. Do not force or strain during bowel movements.

Depending on the strength and depth of the laser, you may be directed to follow one or more of the instructions below.
Gently cleanse skin with cool water-soaked cotton balls starting the day after the procedure, 4–6 times a day.
Do not scrub. Be gentle. You may gently splash cool water on your face starting the following day.
You may be asked to use diluted white vinegar soaks 3–4 times a day.
You may be instructed to use HOCL (Hypochlorous Acid) sprays on your face 3–4 times per day.
At the beginning, you may be asked to apply only Vaseline ointment after each cleaning for the first 3–5 days.
Do not let skin dry out. Apply lots of Vaseline. DO NOT USE AQUAPHOR or other ointments.
You may be given other “post-peel” products to apply after you stop using Vaseline, such as Alastin Skin Nectar or ZO.
Do not scratch, pick, or pull at skin or scabs. You will get scars if you do so.
Protect skin from sun exposure. Use a large-brimmed loose hat.
Avoid heat and sweating. Avoid saunas.
Do not apply ice directly to the skin as it may cause a frostbite burn.
Do not bathe or get into a pool or jacuzzi.
Do not apply makeup, sunscreen, or other products until cleared by your doctor.

Avoid lifting over 20 pounds for 2 weeks.
Most patients return to work in 1–2 weeks.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 2 weeks.
Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medication.
Avoid sun exposure for 90 days. This is very important. You may develop hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation otherwise.
Hold off on your normal skincare routine and products until cleared by your doctor.