What Does Laser Resurfacing Actually Feel Like During Recovery?
If you’ve been thinking about laser resurfacing, chances are you’ve already seen the amazing before-and-after photos. This treatment is perfect for anyone who wants smoother skin, softened wrinkles, and a more even tone.
While the results are stunning, you may be wondering what the recovery process is like. So what does laser resurfacing feel like during recovery?
Read on to learn more.
What Does Laser Resurfacing Actually Feel Like During Recovery?
The truth is that healing after laser resurfacing isn’t usually painful in the way people imagine. But, it’s definitely a process.
Your skin goes through several stages as it repairs itself. Knowing what to expect can make the experience much less stressful.
Let’s walk through recovery, from the first few hours to when you start seeing results.
Immediately After Treatment
Immediately after laser resurfacing, your skin will feel like it’s sunburned. It may feel hot, tight, and sensitive to touch. It may even be slightly swollen and red.
Your provider will usually apply a cooling compress or soothing products before you leave the office. This can make those first few hours a lot more comfortable.
Day 1-3
This is when the healing process really starts to kick in and redness and swelling are at their peak.
You may notice your skin is:
- Puffy around the eyes
- Rough and has a sandpaper-like texture
- Dry and tight
- Tender to touch
Your skin will feel tight when you smile or make a facial expression. The sensation may feel unusual, but it’s all part of the healing process.
Be sure to keep your skin moisturized and follow all of your provider’s aftercare instructions.
Expect A Lot of Peeling
One of the most talked about parts of laser resurfacing recovery is peeling.
As the damaged outer layer of skin begins to shed, it will peel, flake, or develop tiny crusts. Though it can look pretty dramatic, peeling isn’t usually painful.
The biggest challenge is resisting the urge to pick at it.
It’s important to let your skin shed naturally to minimize the risk of scarring, irritation, and uneven healing.
Itching Is Usually a Good Sign
As fresh skin starts to form, it’s common to experience itchiness.
Though it can be annoying, itching is a sign that your skin is healing. Keeping your skin hydrated can help alleviate the urge to scratch.
During this time, be sure to only use products recommended by your provider so that you can protect your skin while minimizing irritation.
Expect Skin Sensivity
Even after the redness starts to fade, it’s not uncommon for your skin to be more sensitive than usual. For several weeks you may notice that:
- Certain skincare products sting
- Hot showers feel hotter than they really are
- Wind feels more noticeable
- Sun exposure feels much more intense
Newly resurfaced skin is delicate. Protecting it using gentle skincare and sunscreen is a key part of recovery.
When Will My Skin Start to Feel Normal Again?
Everyone heals a little differently, but after laser resurfacing, most people begin to feel much more comfortable after about a week.
Eventually tightness will begin to improve, peeling with finish, and swelling will decrease. While your skin may still be pink, your skin will generally feel more comfortable.
Over the next few weeks and months, collagen production will continue and texture, tone, and firmness will continue to improve.
Don’t Sweat Your Recovery! Get Treatment at Custom Beauty Med Studio
Now that you know what laser resurfacing actually feels like during recovery, you may feel more prepared to take the next step. Though there is a short period of redness, tightness, peeling, and sensitivity, the recovery process is well worth healthier skin that has a natural beautiful glow.
Ready to love how your skin looks? Contact us online, give our office a call at (202) 410-1199 to speak with our staff or schedule an appointment online now.
