Ablative Fractionated CO2 Laser Treatment - Full Face

Its been almost two weeks and not exactly an easy journey. The treatment itself was no big deal. I was numbed up well and the laser hitting my face was comparable to a stinging sensation. Was a little more intense around my eyes and above my lip. I expected my skin to feel like I had a really bad sunburn later that night, but it wasn't bad at all. I was instructed to slather my whole face with Aquaphor and keep it covered in that ointment for the following week. By day three I couldn't stand having it on my face another minute! It's so thick and I felt like I was suffocating. I switched to Cetaphil Soothing Gel Cream with Aloe and Allantoin Skin Protectant. It is paraben/fragrance free and has a lighter feel to it. I had to apply more frequently to keep my face protected and moisturized as it healed, but for me it was SO much better! Not telling anyone else to use it, I'm just putting my experience out there and what felt more comfortable and tolerable on my skin. I did experience a good amount of swelling especially below my eyes which lasted 6 days. My skin is still pinkish and it's my understanding it might be for several weeks. The WORST part of this treatment is the itchiness that follows during the healing process. Its beyond maddening. I wanted to rip my face off. My doctor told me I could use a mix of 2/3 water and 1/3 white vinegar, soak gauze in the solution and apply to skin for the itching. Unfortunately, it only relieved the itchiness for about 10 minutes. All the of the crustiness is gone so I have switched to SkinMedica TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream which was recommended specifically for use after any type of skin treatment (again this is just what works for me). I don't know that I would do this treatment again simply because of the insane itching which is still going on and there is no relief from it. I'm definitely ready for that part to be over! I hope this information is of help to others.