CO2 Laser

Prior to Treatment

• Prepare a large container (gallon-size) of vinegar and water mixture (1 cup water, 2 tsp. vinegar). Cover and refrigerate to use as a cold compress following your laser procedure. 
• Have plenty of clean washcloths or hand-sized towels available for vinegar and water soaks following your treatment. 

CO2 PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS 

1. Please notify us of any history of diabetes, herpes, blood coagulation disorders, keloid or hypertrophic scarring. 
2. For one month prior to treatment, avoid sun exposure, as well as tanning beds and tanning creams. If you are tanned, you may not be treated. Use a sunscreen designed to protect against UVA and UVB rays with a 30+ SPF at all times and reapply as directed by the manufacturer. Sun exposure is defined as direct sunlight without protection for ten or more minutes. 
3. Discontinue the use of Retin-A or any retinol-type products at least 1 week prior to your treatment.
4. Discontinue the use of all exfoliating products and glycolic and alpha-hydroxy acid products at least 1 week prior to your treatment.
5. Wait at least 1 week after Botox injections before having a fractional CO2 laser treatment.
6. The most common reason for post-op infection or acne eruption is caused by using products that have accumulated bacteria. Thoroughly clean all of your existing make-up brushes and application sponges, or purchase new ones entirely, to use after your laser treatment. Dallas Surgical Arts has many quality products available that were specially designed for post-laser treatments.
7. A post-CO2 kit with instructions will be given to you by Dallas Surgical Arts. 
8. You should avoid wearing jewelry or contact lenses on your treatment day. Please bring your eyeglasses. 
9. On the day of your treatment, please come to the office with clean skin (clean shaven, if male). Your treatment area should be free of any makeup, creams, perfumes and lotions, except for our sunscreen. 
10. Comfortable clothing should be worn. If your face or neck is being treated, please wear a button-down shirt.  

Prescriptions after Surgery  

• You will be prescribed medications based on your health history. 
• You will receive pain medication to use for the first 3-5 days after surgery if needed.
• An antibiotic will be prescribed for you to start taking the day after surgery.
• An oral steroid will be prescribed to help reduce swelling.
• Anti-nausea will help limit any nausea you may experience after surgery.
• An antiviral will be called in to start prior to the procedure. We will review this in detail at your pre-surgical appointment.

Day of Surgery

As soon as you arrive home after the procedure, we ask that you begin vinegar and water soaks 2-3 times per hour until bedtime, alternating with ice compresses. Please use a washcloth as a barrier between the ice and your skin to avoid damage to your skin. We want you to be mindful that you may not be able to feel the sensation when a certain temperature is painful to your face. 

CO2 POST CARE 

You will experience a burning sensation on the skin that will last between 30 minutes and 3-4 hours after treatment on the day of your procedure.

• The treated area will remain a reddish-brown color for 2-4 days, or more, depending on the depth of your treatment.
• Begin vinegar soaks as soon as you arrive home and utilize them as often as you need (1 cup water mixed with 2 tsp vinegar). It is recommended that you prepare a large quantity – 1 gal or more – the day before. Keep covered and refrigerated so that the mixture will be cold when you begin use. Replenish as needed. 
• Every 2 hours, cover the treated areas with Vanicream Ointment (step one) from your post-CO2 kit. Your skin should NEVER look dry and should always be glistening with ointment. If your skin is dry, you should apply more frequently than every 2 hours. 
• Continue taking all medications as directed by your physician. 
• If necessary, take a pain reliever as directed by your physician. Please avoid taking over the counter pain medication that you have not discussed with your doctor.
• After 24 hours post-procedure, cleanse your skin twice daily using Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser (Step 2) from your CO2 kit. Crusting may occur, but do not pick your skin. Avoid using hot water. Do not scrub the treated area. 
• Approximately 72 hours after treatment, the area will begin to peel.  Do not pull or pick the peeling skin. Keep a Vanicream moisturizing skin cream (Step 3) on all areas and let the skin peel spontaneously. The treated area will peel for 2-3 days and appear pink in color. Normal skin color usually returns rapidly once peeling is complete.
• Eye Area: Treatment to the upper eyelids may result in swelling and slightly restrict eye opening. Redness may persist for up to 3 days. Cleanse your eyes with cool water and pat dry very lightly with a soft towel. Avoid hot water. Lubricating the eye with drops (i.e., artificial tears) will help decrease any dryness inside of your eyes. 
• If the skin around the mouth is tight, minimize facial expressions and remember to moisturize with Recovery Balm as needed. Use a straw to drink liquids. 
• Rest. Avoid strenuous exercise, bending, straining, or lifting heavy objects for 1 week after your procedure. These activities can cause more swelling and pain in your face and slow down your recovery. 
• Sleep in a slightly elevated position. Use 2-3 pillows under your head & neck or sleep in a reclining chair for a few nights. 
• Avoid sun exposure for at least six months. Use the sunscreen provided every day. Use a hat and sunglasses when you can. After laser treatment, your skin is extremely vulnerable to the sun. Protecting your skin and limiting sun exposure ensures the best cosmetic results. 
• You can resume normal activities as tolerated. However, avoid swimming or using hot tubs/whirlpools while the skin is still red, usually for at least 24-48 hours. 
• Once you feel comfortable and healed, a normal skin care regime, including makeup or shaving, can be resumed. Be mindful to avoid using hot water while shaving. 
• Schedule a follow-up appointment for 1 week after your procedure.
• Call the office immediately if you experience any of the following: increased pain, fever, drainage of pus, signs of infection or bleeding. 

Who should I call if I have questions? 

Please call our office at (972) 914-3660. You may also email photos or questions to info@dsa.live and someone will get in touch with you within 24-48 hours.