What's the recovery like for Fraxel Laser?

Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.

Typical downtime: 5–7 days of significant redness and bronzing

Recovery timeline

Day 1

Skin is red, swollen, and feels like a significant sunburn. Keep cool and apply prescribed healing ointment. Oral pain medication if provided.

Days 2–3

Redness and swelling peak. Skin begins to develop a bronzed, scaly texture (MENDS). Do not attempt to remove.

Days 4–5

Bronze, peeling skin begins to exfoliate naturally. Avoid picking — let it fall away on its own.

Days 5–7

Most patients are presentable with makeup. Redness is still present but can be covered. Resume normal skincare cautiously.

Weeks 2–4

Redness fades. Fresh skin continues to emerge. Hyperpigmentation temporarily possible in darker skin tones.

Months 1–6

Collagen production builds. Texture, tone, and lines continue to improve for up to 6 months.

Recovery tips

Apply healing ointment (Aquaphor or prescribed product) generously for the first 3 to 5 days — do not let skin dry out
Use a gentle, cold water rinse if skin feels hot — avoid any cleanser with actives for 1 week
Arnica supplements help reduce swelling
Sleep with an extra pillow to reduce facial swelling
SPF 50+ is non-negotiable for at least 4 weeks post-treatment — UV exposure can cause hyperpigmentation

What to avoid

Direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks (ideally 8 weeks)
Retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and all active skincare for 2 weeks
Makeup for 5 to 7 days (until actively peeling phase is complete)
Hot showers, saunas, steam rooms for 1 week
Picking at peeling skin

When to call your provider

Fever above 101°F — possible infection
Blistering beyond minor post-treatment response
Significant darkening of treated skin that doesn't improve after 2 to 3 weeks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
Eye irritation or vision changes

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Frequently asked questions

What does Fraxel recovery feel and look like?

Day 1 to 2: sunburn-like redness and swelling. Days 2 to 5: bronzed, scaly skin (MENDS) that exfoliates naturally. Days 5 to 7: presentable with makeup. Most patients take 5 to 7 days off from social activities.

How long until I see Fraxel results?

Initial improvement is visible at 2 to 4 weeks. Results continue to build as new collagen forms over 3 to 6 months. Most patients see their best improvement at 3 to 4 months post-treatment.