What’s Next After a Laser Session?

Essential Post-Treatment Care and Skin Recovery Tips

After completing a laser treatment session, your skin immediately begins its recovery process—and the steps you take in the hours and days that follow can make all the difference in your results. While some sessions involved little to no downtime and minimal care, other post-laser care focuses on calming inflammation, protecting the skin barrier, and supporting healthy regeneration. Patients are typically advised to avoid heat, sweating, and sun exposure for at least three to four days, as the skin is more sensitive. Applying gentle, hydrating products such as fragrance-free moisturizers and soothing serums (like hyaluronic acid or aloe-based formulas) helps replenish moisture without irritation. Sun protection is critical; sunscreen should be worn daily to prevent hyperpigmentation and protect newly treated skin.

While laser treatments are safe and effective, temporary side effects are common and usually part of the normal healing process. Redness, swelling, a warm “sunburn-like” sensation, and mild dryness or flaking can appear depending on the depth and intensity of the laser used. Cooling packs and barrier-repair creams can provide relief during the first 24 hours. For more ablative or high-energy procedures, patients may experience bronzing, pinpoint scabbing, or micro-crusting as the skin exfoliates—these should never be picked at, as doing so can cause scarring. If itching occurs, a gentle cold compress or a practitioner-approved anti-itch product may help. It’s important to avoid active ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid, or exfoliating scrubs until your provider advises otherwise, as these can irritate healing skin. With proper post-care and patience, most side effects resolve quickly, allowing results to reveal smoother, healthier-looking skin in the days and weeks that follow.

• Avoid heavy sun (even in cloudy weather)
• Use gentle moisturizers
• Apply soothing products like aloe vera (and even certain facemasks)
• Stay hydrated
• Do not aggravate the affected areas
• Follow your practitioner’s directions