Itchiness after Fractora and CO2 laser?

Question

I had Fractora and CO 2 laser Wednesday afternoon and it is now late Friday night. Today my face is so itchy I cannot sleep, even with 2 Benadryls. I clean my face with Elta MD foaming facial cleanser, then use the Elta MD laser balm. Today I added cicafate - I use vinegar water to blot the balm off when it gets too thick - I do this process about 4 times a day.

Jordan P. Sand, MD · Answer

Hi stilltexan and thank you for your question.
Following skin resurfacing I typically request my patients utilize a gentle skin cleanser and an ointment to keep the skin moist while healing. With the skin barrier damaged, this can sometimes lead to increased sensitivity to various products. A change in ointments or a topical treatment may be needed for a patient who is experiencing a localized reaction. I would recommend close follow up with the office that provided the services to be evaluated and obtain a recommendation for treatment.
Good luck!

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The integrity of your skin surface has been intentionally damaged by the Fractora and CO2 laser treatments. We have found that due to this disruption, some patients are more sensitive to the ingredients in the topical agents/cleansers being used. I would follow up with your doctor to get their recommendation how to best deal with this. You may want to pick up a facial steamer to help keep your skin moist. There are reports of some patients being sensitive to the lanolin in products like Aquaphor that are often used post-treatment. We had an instance of this in our office and switched to a plain petroleum jelly with resolution after 48 hours.I wish you the best - Dr. Moore.

Wendy Abraham, ND · Answer

If you are still dealing with the intense itchiness, call your provider to discuss options. Depending on how much healthy tissue is left - some topical steroid cream can help - and your doctor can determine which one is best for you given the treatment that you had.

Itchiness after Fractora and CO2 laser?

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Itchiness after Fractora and CO2 laser?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Fractora RF

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.