What's the recovery like for Mosaic 3D?
Everything you need to know about Mosaic 3D recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.
Typical downtime: 5–7 days — significant downtime similar to Fraxel
Recovery timeline
Days 1–2
Skin is red, swollen, and feels like an intense sunburn. Topical ointment keeps skin moist. Avoid makeup.
Days 3–5
Skin begins to peel and bronzed appearance fades. Visible peeling is normal. Continue ointment and avoid picking.
Days 5–7
Peeling resolves. New, pink skin is visible. Redness fades over the following 1–2 weeks.
Weeks 2–12
Skin continues improving for up to 3 months as new collagen forms. SPF is critical throughout.
Recovery tips
- Plan 5–7 days of social downtime
- Keep skin continuously moisturized with prescribed ointment
- Sleep with head elevated for the first 3 days to reduce swelling
- Do not pick any peeling skin
- Wear SPF 50+ daily starting at week 2
What to avoid
- Sun exposure during recovery and for months after
- Picking or peeling skin
- Actives (retinol, acids) for 4–6 weeks
- Heat and steam during healing
When to call your provider
- Signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, fever
- Unusual blistering or skin breakdown
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation appearing in the weeks after healing
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Browse all Mosaic 3D providers →Frequently asked questions
How long is Mosaic 3D recovery?
5–7 days of active recovery with visible redness and peeling. Results improve progressively for 3 months as collagen remodels. Plan social downtime accordingly.
What is Mosaic 3D used for?
Mosaic 3D is a fractional CO2 laser used for acne scars (rolling and boxcar types), deep wrinkles, skin texture and tone, and photoaging. It requires more downtime than non-ablative options but delivers more significant results.