ABOUT ALMA CO₂ LASER RESURFACING
The Alma Fractional CO₂ Laser is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that uses controlled micro-thermal energy to resurface and remodel the skin.
It stimulates collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, treats acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation, and overall skin laxity — revealing smoother, firmer, and younger-looking skin.
Depending on your goals, treatment may range from light fractional resurfacing to deep rejuvenation, with downtime varying from a few days to two weeks.
Careful preparation and proper aftercare are crucial for safe healing and beautiful results.
PRE-TREATMENT CARE
2–4 Weeks Before Treatment
- Avoid tanning and direct sun exposure for at least 4 weeks prior to your procedure.
- This includes natural sunlight, tanning beds, and self-tanning products.
- Tanned skin increases the risk of burns and pigmentation changes.
- Discontinue active skincare products (unless otherwise directed) for 7–10 days before treatment, including:
- Retinoids or retinol
- AHAs/BHAs (glycolic, salicylic, lactic acid)
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Vitamin C or exfoliating agents
- Hydroquinone or skin-lightening creams
- Avoid chemical peels, microneedling, or laser procedures in the treatment area for at least 3–4 weeks prior.
- If you have a history of cold sores (Herpes Simplex virus), inform your provider — antiviral medication (such as valacyclovir) will be prescribed to start 1–2 days before treatment and continue for several days after to prevent outbreaks.
- Discontinue isotretinoin (Accutane) for 6 months prior to laser resurfacing.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) for 7 days prior unless medically necessary. These may increase bruising and interfere with healing.
- If you are prone to hyperpigmentation (Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI), your provider may recommend a pigment-suppressing regimen (such as hydroquinone or kojic acid) 2–4 weeks prior to reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
1–2 Days Before Treatment
- Stop using makeup, lotions, or active skincare on the treatment area.
- Hydrate well — drink plenty of water before your appointment.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine 24 hours prior.
- Arrange transportation home if you are receiving deeper resurfacing or taking oral sedation medication.
Day of Appointment
- Arrive with a clean face — no makeup, moisturizer, sunscreen, or product residue.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early for topical numbing application.
- Avoid wearing tight headwear or jewelry near the treatment area.
- Inform your provider if you have any recent illness, active infection, or medication changes.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Healing and aftercare are essential to optimize results, minimize downtime, and prevent complications such as pigmentation or scarring.
Immediately After Treatment (First 24 Hours)
- The treated area will feel warm, tight, and sunburned for several hours.
- Mild redness, swelling, and pinpoint oozing are normal for the first 24–48 hours.
- Apply cool compresses for 10–15 minutes at a time to relieve heat and swelling.
- Keep the area moist at all times using Aquaphor, Cicaplast, or a barrier healing ointment recommended by your provider.
- Do not touch, rub, or scratch the skin.
- Sleep on your back with your head elevated on clean pillows.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, heat exposure, or sweating for 48 hours.
First 3–5 Days
- Redness and mild swelling will gradually subside.
- Skin will begin to bronze and feel dry or tight, followed by microcrusting or flaking.
- Do not pick, peel, or scrub — allow natural exfoliation.
- Cleanse gently twice daily with a non-foaming, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water.
- Gently pat dry with a clean towel or gauze.
- Reapply your barrier ointment frequently to keep skin moist.
- Avoid all active skincare ingredients and makeup until peeling is complete.
Days 5–10: Peeling and Healing
- The outer layer of skin will naturally shed and reveal fresh new skin.
- Continue moisturizing generously and avoid direct sun exposure.
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily once your skin is fully closed and no longer oozing.
- If itching occurs, apply a cool compress or use a gentle post-procedure cream.
- Avoid hot showers, saunas, and chlorinated pools until the skin is fully healed.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, which delay recovery.
After 10–14 Days
- Most redness should have resolved, though mild pinkness may persist for several weeks.
- You may now resume light makeup and gentle skincare (non-active moisturizers, mild serums).
- Continue daily sunscreen use and strict sun avoidance for at least 4–6 weeks.
- Active skincare (retinoids, exfoliants, or acids) may be resumed only once your provider approves, typically after 2–3 weeks.
RESULTS AND TREATMENT PLAN
- Results begin to appear within 2–4 weeks and continue to improve over 3–6 months as collagen remodeling occurs.
- Depending on treatment intensity and goals:
- Light fractional resurfacing: 3–5 days downtime
- Deep resurfacing: up to 10–14 days downtime
- For best outcomes:
- A series of 2–3 treatments spaced 2–3 months apart may be recommended.
- Annual maintenance sessions can preserve long-term rejuvenation effects.
WHEN TO CALL OUR OFFICE
Contact Specialty Wellness & MedSpa immediately at 469-442-4442 if you experience:
- Severe pain or swelling beyond mild tenderness
- Increasing redness or warmth after 48 hours
- Blistering, pus, or yellow crusting (possible infection)
- Pale, grayish, or blotchy patches of skin (vascular compromise)
- Persistent redness beyond 3 weeks
Have Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call Specialty Wellness & MedSpa at 469-442-4442.
Our expert team will guide you through every step to ensure a smooth, safe recovery and glowing results.
