Fractional CO₂ laser is the gold standard for moderate-to-severe acne scars. What worries patients most isn't the session — it's recovery. 5-7 visible days that need planning. Here's the day-by-day guide based on hundreds of patients treated at Elyzea.
Before the session
2 weeks prior: avoid direct sun exposure. No retinol or strong acids for 5 days before. Stay hydrated. Have healing cream ready (Biafine, Cicaplast, or what Dra. Geldres recommends) and SPF 50+ mineral sunscreen.
Recovery timeline
Day 0 (post-session)
Reddened, warm skin, intense sunburn sensation. Apply soothing/hydrating cream every 2 hours. Sleep elevated that night (extra pillow) to reduce swelling.
Day 1-2
Peak redness. Visible swelling especially around eyes. Tight, dry skin. Apply cream every 3-4 hours. Paracetamol for discomfort. NO aspirin or ibuprofen (interfere with healing).
Day 3-4
Peeling begins. Skin looks darker with microscopic crusts that fall naturally. DO NOT scratch, DO NOT exfoliate. If itching bothers you, apply a cold compress. Skin is renewing underneath — the process is uncomfortable but normal.
Day 5-6
Accelerated peeling. Old skin falls away revealing pink, sensitive, new skin. Still no makeup. Keep hydration constant and strict sun protection if you go out.
Day 7-8
Most skin has reepithelialized. Gentle mineral makeup can be applied. Avoid thick creamy foundations. Skin looks luminous and more uniform — the sensation is of complete renewal.
Week 2-4
Can resume normal skincare routine (no strong retinoids yet). Continue strict daily sun protection — new skin is more vulnerable to pigmentation.
Month 1-6
Scar results consolidate progressively. New collagen fills atrophic scars. Texture improves. Deep scars may require 2-3 sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart.
What NOT to do
- ✦ Scratch during peeling (causes permanent scarring)
- ✦ Mechanical exfoliants or acids before 3 weeks
- ✦ Direct sun without SPF 50+ mineral for 4 weeks
- ✦ Saunas, steam, or intense exercise the first 5 days
- ✦ Aspirin, ibuprofen, or NSAIDs (interfere with collagen)
When to worry
Complications are rare with an experienced plastic surgeon but possible. Call the clinic if: severe pain not relieved by paracetamol, redness worsening after day 4, white-yellow spots (possible infection), or fever. At Elyzea, Dra. Geldres is available via WhatsApp during the recovery period.
Learn more about the CO₂ laser treatment in Miraflores or compare with picosecond laser.