Is it safe not to wash my face for the first 7 days of CO2 fractional + DioLite laser?

Question

My Dr. told me not to wash my face (resurfaced area) for 7 days or until it is completely healed and just keep applying the ointment 4-5 times a day. I think he is wrong. Is it safe not to wash my face and keep applying the ointment for over 7 days? I got DioLite and CO2 fractional done on the same day 3 days ago.

Sara A. Kaltreider, MD (retired) · Answer

You will hear many opinions! I generally have my patients use a gentle cleanser that I give to them after the laser procedure. I believe some physicians are concerned that their patients will scrub or rub too hard and damage the skin causing scarring. If you use your fingertips gently with a mild soap - or just water, you will do no harm. We also provide a healing ointment for application to the skin to keep the skin moist at all times. After the peeling, we switch patients to a lighter moisturizer and a sun screen. Another tip is to splash the face with water mixed with a couple of tablespoons of vinegar (1 gallon water with 2 tbs of vinegar). This is very soothing. Best wishes with the rest of your healing!

Is it safe not to wash my face for the first 7 days of CO2 fractional + DioLite laser?

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Is it safe not to wash my face for the first 7 days of CO2 fractional + DioLite laser?

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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