What's the recovery like for Laser Resurfacing?

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

Typical downtime: 7–14 days depending on treatment depth — plan for social downtime

Recovery timeline

Days 1–3

Skin is red, swollen, and feels like a significant sunburn. Some oozing is normal for ablative treatments. Keep skin moist with recommended ointment.

Days 4–7

Skin begins to peel and flake. Do not pick or pull. Continue applying moisturizing ointment and protecting from sun.

Days 7–10

Peeling resolves. New pink skin is visible — this is normal and fades over 2–4 weeks. Makeup can typically be applied at this stage.

Weeks 2–4

Pinkness fades. SPF is critical during this entire phase. Skin continues to improve for 3–6 months as collagen rebuilds.

Recovery tips

Keep skin continuously moisturized with the ointment prescribed by your provider
Use a gentle cleanser — no scrubbing, just light patting
Sleep with your head elevated for the first 3–5 days to reduce swelling
Stay out of direct sun completely until your provider clears you
Plan social downtime — most patients prefer to stay home for the first week

What to avoid

Sun exposure — new skin has zero UV protection and will hyperpigment
Picking or peeling any flaking skin
Makeup until your provider clears you (typically day 7–10)
Active skincare ingredients (retinol, acids) for 4–6 weeks
Hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms during healing

When to call your provider

Severe blistering or bleeding beyond expected oozing
Signs of infection: worsening redness, yellow discharge, fever
Significant crusting that doesn't resolve after day 7
Hyperpigmentation that appears in the weeks after healing

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Frequently asked questions

How long is laser resurfacing recovery?

Expect 7–14 days of active recovery depending on the depth of treatment. Non-ablative lasers (like Clear + Brilliant) take 1–3 days. Ablative CO2 or Fraxel takes 7–14 days. Plan to work from home or take time off.

When will I see results from laser resurfacing?

Initial improvement is visible once peeling resolves around day 10–14. Continued improvement from collagen remodeling occurs for 3–6 months.

Can I wear makeup after laser resurfacing?

Most providers clear mineral makeup around day 7–10 once the outer skin has healed. Check with your provider before applying anything.