Comprehensive Guide: Laser Skin Resurfacing Pre-Care and After-Care Instructions
✦ Care Instructions
Erbium Laser
Skin Resurfacing
Everything you need to prepare for your treatment and heal beautifully — from Dr. Moazemi and the Beau Visage team.
✦ Overview
What to expect before and after
Erbium laser skin resurfacing is one of the most effective treatments for erasing fine lines, sun damage, uneven texture, and acne scarring. Because it works by precisely removing the outer layers of skin to stimulate deep collagen renewal, how you prepare — and how you care for your skin afterward — has a direct impact on your results.
This guide covers everything Dr. Moazemi recommends before and after your treatment. If you have any questions specific to your skin, our team is always here to help.
✦ Pre-Treatment
Before your appointment, here’s what matters
Apply SPF 30+ daily
Begin one month before your treatment. Protecting against UV damage ensures your skin is in optimal condition for resurfacing.
Disclose cold sore or shingles history
Let your provider know if you’ve experienced either in the treatment area. Antiviral medication (valacyclovir or acyclovir) may be started two days prior and continued for three days after.
Follow your prescribed skincare routine
Use any topical creams or treatments recommended by Dr. Moazemi consistently for at least one month before your procedure.
Stay hydrated and eat well
Well-nourished, hydrated skin heals faster. Focus on water intake and a balanced diet in the weeks leading up to your appointment.
Sun exposure & tanning
Avoid UV exposure to the treatment area for at least one month before your laser. Tanning significantly increases the risk of hyperpigmentation.
Aggressive exfoliation or peels
Refrain from deep chemical peels, dermabrasion, or strong exfoliants for at least four weeks prior to avoid pre-treatment skin irritation.
Photosensitizing medications
Medications like doxycycline or minocycline that increase sun sensitivity should be paused at least one week before — with your prescribing doctor’s approval.
Retinol, makeup & harsh products
Discontinue retinol and strong active ingredients at least three days before your treatment unless otherwise directed by your provider.
✦ Post-Treatment
After-care for the best possible healing
Cool compresses for relief
Apply a cool compress or towel-wrapped ice pack for 15 minutes every 1–2 hours during the first 24–48 hours. This reduces swelling and soothes discomfort.
Moisturize with the right products
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an occlusive moisturizer twice daily until redness resolves. Avoid bacitracin or Neosporin — they can cause irritation.
Gentle vinegar cleansing
Clean the area twice daily with a vinegar solution (1 tsp white vinegar in 2 cups water). Soak gauze and apply for 10–15 minutes, then wipe gently. This keeps the area clean without disrupting healing skin.
No makeup or shaving initially
Wait at least 48 hours before applying makeup or shaving the treated area. Introducing products too early can cause irritation or infection.
Sleep with your head elevated
Rest on your back with an extra pillow for the first four nights to minimize facial swelling while you sleep.
Avoid strenuous activity
Skip exercise and anything that causes flushing for at least two weeks. Heat and increased circulation can worsen redness and slow healing.
Protect from sun, heat & chlorine
Stay out of direct sunlight, hot tubs, chlorinated pools, and saunas until your skin has fully healed — typically 7 to 10 days.
Let peeling happen naturally
Skin typically begins to peel between days 3 and 7. Do not pick or scratch — let it shed on its own to avoid scarring and uneven healing.
Avoid smoking
Smoking significantly impairs circulation and slows the skin’s ability to repair itself. Avoid it entirely during your recovery period.
✦ What to Expect
Your recovery, day by day
Day 1–2
Redness & Swelling
Skin appears red and feels like a sunburn. Swelling, itching, and stinging are normal. Cool compresses and rest are your best tools right now.
Day 3–5
Peeling Begins
The outer skin starts to slough away as new skin forms beneath. Keep the area moisturized and resist the urge to pick.
Day 6–10
New Skin Emerges
Peeling subsides and fresh, pink skin is visible. Most patients are comfortable returning to daily activities by this point.
Weeks 2–4
Gradual Improvement
Residual redness fades and skin tone begins to even out. Sunscreen is critical during this phase.
1–3 Months
Full Results Visible
Collagen continues building beneath the surface. Texture, tone, and overall skin quality continue improving for weeks to months post-treatment.
✦ Long-Term Care
Maintaining your results after healing
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen
Once healed, SPF 30 or higher every morning — without exception. UV exposure is the single fastest way to undo the results of your treatment.
Consistent moisturization
Keep your skin hydrated with a doctor-recommended moisturizer tailored to your skin type. Hydrated skin ages more gracefully and maintains your results longer.
A customized skincare program
Work with Dr. Moazemi and our team to build a routine that includes gentle cleansers, antioxidant serums, and targeted actives — all calibrated to your post-treatment skin.
Maintenance treatments as needed
The benefits of laser resurfacing can last for years. Future sessions can address new fine lines or sun damage as your skin continues to age naturally.
✦ Quick Answers
Frequently asked questions
Book your laser consultation in Walnut Creek
Dr. Moazemi will personally assess your skin and walk you through the right treatment plan for your goals and skin type.