After laser treatment, your skin may feel warm, dry, or more sensitive than usual, so your regular skincare routine needs a few adjustments to accommodate. Gentle cleansing, sensitivity-friendly moisturizer, and careful sun protection can soothe irritation and prevent damage as your vulnerable skin heals.
At Roots of Nature Aesthetic & Wellness in Lee’s Summit, we walk you through post-laser skincare, including which products you should use at home and when to return to your usual routine. Read our guide below for a general overview of what to expect.
The First 2 Days
Treatments like ResurFX and IPL photofacials have different effects, so your cleansing routine and recovery timeline may vary for your skin type and chosen process.
Once we’ve cleared you to wash the treatment area:
- Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser.
- Pat your skin dry, never harshly rubbing.
- Skip exfoliating scrubs, retinol, and strong acids until your provider says you can restart them.
If your skin feels hot or tight, ask about suitable cooling or moisturizing products. Let flaky areas shed naturally without picking at the skin.
Post-Laser Product Options to Review
Kinley, our aesthetician, helps patients choose products that suit their skin. Our selection of medical-grade skincare in Lee’s Summit includes 2 brands Kinley might recommend during your visit.
Dermaka
Dermaka formulas focus on soothing skin after procedures, reducing visible redness and bruising. Ask Kinley what products fit for your recovery needs and when to apply them.
EltaMD
EltaMD’s sunscreen range includes options for different skin types. Once your provider confirms your skin can tolerate sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect your results.
We recommend the following:
- Protect your skin from direct sunlight after laser treatment once cleared, because UV exposure can cause dark spots and uneven pigmentation as your skin heals.
- Limit direct sun exposure while healing.
- Follow our guidance on hats and sunscreen.
Returning to Your Routine
You may notice redness or mild sensitivity for a day or 2 after ResurFX, although recovery varies. Keep your routine gentle until your skin settles.
Kinley and the rest of our team will help you decide when to reintroduce products safely to avoid irritation.
Post-Laser Skincare FAQs
We’ve answered a few common questions to help you feel prepared.
Can I moisturize after laser treatment?
Many of our patients can moisturize after laser treatment. However, the right formula and timing depend on the device and your skin’s response.
We may suggest a gentle moisturizer or post-procedure balm, including restorative, medical-grade options from the professional lines we carry. If your skin feels raw or unusually irritated, follow your specific aftercare plan before applying anything new.
When can I wear makeup again?
You’ll need to wait until we clear you to wear makeup. Some light-based treatments allow a quicker return than deeper resurfacing procedures. However, applying makeup too soon may irritate sensitive skin.
How soon can I use retinol or exfoliating acids?
Wait until your skin has recovered fully and we approve you before restarting more aggressive skincare.
Retinol, scrubs, and exfoliating acids may irritate freshly treated skin. Bring a list of your usual products, so Kinley can recommend a safe plan to return to your routine.
Let’s Design Your Recovery Around You
For post-laser skincare in Lee’s Summit, our team designs a routine based on your treatment. Book a beauty consultation with Kinley for product guidance suited to your recovery and supportive of lasting radiance.
