Sandpaper feeling after fractionated laser. What should I do?

Question

Hello! 10 days ago I did fractionated laser on my face. Right now my face is pink and when I feel it doesn’t feel as smooth as it used to. It feels like sandpaper. What should i do? I cant even apply makeup, it looks awful and dry. Thank you for an answer!

William Groff, DO · Answer

The downtime from a fractionated laser treatment can last for up to 14 days, depending on the particular laser used as well as the depth of treatment. It is possible that you had an aggressive treatment that is giving you a prolonged period of downtime. It important that you are using the right home care products on your skin, which will help accelerate healing and soothe any irritation, swelling, and dryness.  I recommend scheduling a follow up appointment with your physician for a formal assessment and a good skincare recommendation, which should include growth factors, hyaluronic acid, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with your Doctor for a formal evaluation and after care. We use a specific protocol of exfoliation, hydration, and moisturizing along with protection after laser treatments. PDT therapy can calm any inflammation. I always combine lasers with microneedling/prp to get more of an outcome. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Yelena Kipervas, DO · Answer

Hi there. after your procedure, you should have a re-check with the provider. you should be able to apply moisturizer. good luck

Robert G. Aycock, MD, FACS · Answer

That is expected after a fractional laser treatment. The sandpaper feeling will slowly come off on it's own. You could use a washcloth to help take off some of those spots without being too abrasive. It takes your skin some adjusting to the dryness as well. Keep moisturizing your face as needed. Please follow up with your laser specialist if this still concerns you.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Agree with William, it can take up to 2 weeks to recover. The use of GENTLE exfoliation followed by occlusive moisturisers will speed up healing. I like to use a light moisturiser like Obagi in the am, and a heavy occlusive one in the evening. Check with your specialist. Dr Davin S. Lim. Brisbane. AUSTRALIA

Sandpaper feeling after fractionated laser. What should I do?

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Answers (6)

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