Can I wear make-up after CO2 laser?

Yes, once the crusts have fallen off, usually 5 to 14 days later depending on treatment intensity.

Is the redness a side effect?

No. The pink tone after the crusts fall is an expected consequence of treatment and fades with time. A complication would be, for example, an infection or abnormal scarring.

How many days should I set aside?

I recommend two weeks, although in many cases the crusts will have fallen off sooner.

How long does redness last after CO2 laser?

The stages of recovery

In the first days there is swelling and oozing, caused by the anaesthesia and the laser itself. Then fine crusts form and fall off on their own. After a light resurfacing this phase lasts 5 to 10 days; after an intensive one, 7 to 14.

Once the crusts fall, the new skin is pink. From then on you can wear make-up or tinted sunscreen and return to work and social life as normal. That is why I recommend setting aside two weeks.

How long does the pink tone last?

It usually fades over several weeks. The deeper and more intensive the treatment, the longer it can last, and in some cases it lingers for one or two months. Meanwhile the skin keeps improving: collagen and elastic fibres continue remodelling for up to a year and a half.

What it depends on

Intensity and depth. Within a single treatment I use different intensities by area: less around the eyes and more on barcode lines or lax lateral areas.

Your skin. Skin prone to rosacea or flushing usually takes a little longer.

Sun and heat. Sun exposure, intense exercise or saunas in the first weeks prolong redness and increase the risk of pigmentation.

Aftercare. Following the instructions and using the creams in the kit shortens recovery and reduces complications.

How to cope better

High sun protection every day, including in winter and indoors near windows. Make-up or tinted sunscreen as soon as the crusts have fallen; green-tinted concealers neutralise redness well. Avoid direct sun, intense heat and irritating products until I tell you otherwise.

During recovery you send me a daily email with photos and I see you at the included follow-up visits, so any question is resolved as it comes up.

When to get in touch

Redness, some swelling and temporary pigmentation are expected consequences. Contact me as soon as possible if pain increases instead of decreasing, if you notice small blisters or clustered spots, discharge or fever, or if an area becomes red again after improving. I always give antiviral treatment to prevent herpes.

Full information on the treatment, the explainer video, real cases and prices on the CO2 laser page.