How long is CO2 downtime?

Most patients experience 5–7 days of visible redness and peeling after CO2 laser treatment. Deep sessions may require up to 10 days before sun exposure or makeup, while residual pinkness can persist for 2–3 weeks.

What should I apply after CO2 laser?

Doctors usually prescribe a post-laser healing ointment to maintain moisture and prevent infection, followed by SPF50+ sunscreen once peeling ends. Avoid acids, scrubs, and retinoids for 10–14 days.

Monday, October 13th, 2025

CO₂ Laser Downtime Diary (Day-by-Day Photos & Care Checklist)

Q: Can I speed up recovery?

Hydration, gentle cleansing, and strict avoidance of heat, sun, and friction during the first week can accelerate recovery. Some clinics offer polynucleotide injectables like Rejuran S to support dermal healing.

What to Expect After Fractional CO₂ Laser for Acne Scars

Fractional CO₂ laser remains one of the most effective procedures for resurfacing atrophic acne scars. But it’s also known for having noticeable downtime.

This day-by-day recovery diary offers a transparent view of healing, redness, and aftercare—so you know exactly what to expect after treatment.

For a full comparison of methods, downtime & prices for acne scar removal can help you plan your recovery timeline more confidently.

CO₂ Laser Downtime: Day-by-Day Recovery Guide

Day	Typical Appearance	How It Feels	Recommended Care
Day 1	Skin appears red, warm, and slightly swollen. Fine pinpoint scabs may form.	Feels hot or tight for several hours post-procedure.	Use cold compress gently. Apply prescribed healing ointment and avoid touching or washing with soap.
Day 2	Redness persists; micro-crusting visible. Skin feels dry and tight.	Mild discomfort or sensitivity.	Continue applying recovery cream. Keep skin moist. Avoid sun exposure completely.
Day 3–4	Crusting begins to darken and flake. Redness slowly fades.	Skin feels itchy—avoid scratching.	Use sterile saline or post-laser cleanser. Reapply moisturizer frequently.
Day 5–6	Most scabs fall off naturally; skin looks pink and smoother.	Slight warmth on touch.	Continue sun avoidance and gentle hydration. Introduce sunscreen SPF50+ if no peeling remains.
Day 7–10	Residual pinkness or sensitivity. Texture already looks refined.	Minimal discomfort.	Normal skincare may resume gradually. Maintain SPF and avoid active ingredients (acids/retinoids) for two weeks.

Doctor’s Guidance on Recovery Duration

“Most patients experience visible downtime for 5–7 days after a fractional CO₂ laser session. The deeper the setting, the longer the healing. Redness may linger for up to 2–3 weeks depending on individual skin tone and intensity used.”

— Medical Director, Bio Aesthetic Laser Clinic

Common Recovery Milestones

Day 1–3: Redness, tightness, micro-crusting begin.
Day 4–6: Peeling and flaking reveal fresh skin underneath.
Day 7–10: Surface redness fades; smoother skin texture visible.
Week 2–3: Collagen stimulation continues under the surface.

CO₂ Laser Aftercare Checklist

Following your doctor’s aftercare plan minimises complications such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and speeds up healing.

Care Step	Frequency	Purpose
Apply prescribed healing ointment	2–3× daily	Prevents scab cracking and infection
Use sterile saline / gentle cleanser	Morning & night	Keeps treated area clean without irritation
SPF50+ sunscreen	Daily after peeling stops	Prevents PIH and protects new skin
Avoid makeup, active acids, scrubs	For 10–14 days	Prevents barrier disruption
Hydrate well (water + moisturiser)	Throughout day	Maintains healing environment

FAQs

How long is CO₂ downtime?

Most patients see visible redness and peeling for 5–7 days. Deep sessions may need up to 10 days before makeup or sun exposure is safe. Pinkness may persist for 2–3 weeks depending on skin type.

What should I apply after CO₂ laser?

Doctors typically recommend a prescribed post-laser recovery cream to keep the skin moist, followed by SPF50+ sunscreen once peeling ends. Avoid acids, retinoids, and scrubs for at least 10–14 days.

Can I speed up recovery?

Keep your skin hydrated, avoid heat and sweating for 48 hours, and follow your doctor’s aftercare closely. Some clinics also add Rejuran S or healing ampoules to accelerate dermal repair.

Key Takeaways

Typical CO₂ laser downtime lasts 5–7 days, with pinkness up to 3 weeks.
Strict aftercare prevents complications like PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
See detailed downtime & prices for acne scar removal to plan your next session.