Laser resurfacing recovery - when can I go back to work?

what should i expect after a laser skin resurfacing?  how long is healing? are there tips for recovering from the laser treatment faster?

3 answers to “Laser resurfacing recovery - when...”

A: You have many options for downtime

Sarah B. Sawyer, MD

The wonderful thing about today's resurfacing is that you can tell us how much downtime you can afford for your resurfacing.  You can ask me to be aggressive, and I have to be aggressive if you have deep wrinkles or deep acne scars, but if you are looking only for a "freshener" to... more

A: Laser Resurfacing Recovery

Harold J. Kaplan, MD

The recovery for laser resurfacing depends on the type of laser used and the extent of the treatment (depth of resurfacing). CO2 laser resurfacing - 2-4 weeks. Erbium or Fractional laser resurfacing - 1 week. Non - Ablative resurfacing (many types) - back to work same day or next day.

A: Laser resurfacing recovery is about a week

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD

After real resurfacing with erbium laser, you can expect about 7-10 days using Aquaphor ointment and that is how long you will want to stay home. After that you will be using lighter lotion ideally with growth factors (Skin Medica TNS Recovery Complex or Neocutis cream) to speed up recovery. Redness may last... more

Post your question

Laser resurfacing before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.