To reduce risks and ensure optimal healing:
Two Weeks Before Treatment
Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including tanning beds and self-tanners)
Do not use retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or exfoliating products
Avoid any facial waxing or chemical peels in the treatment area
Discontinue use of any oral or topical steroids unless directed otherwise
No facial injectables or other laser services within 2 weeks of treatment
Let us know if you’ve had recent illness, open cold sores, or active acne in the treatment area
Begin an antiviral medication 1 to 2 days before your treatment if you have a history of cold sores
Day of Treatment
Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin
No SPF, moisturizer, or product should be applied to the area
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid anything that might rub or irritate the treatment zone
Stay well-hydrated and eat a light meal prior to your appointment
After Your CO₂ Laser Resurfacing Treatment
Your skin will feel warm, tight, and rough for several days. Redness is normal and expected. The depth of the treatment (CoolPeel vs. Deka Pulse) will determine downtime.
First 24 to 72 Hours
Do not wash your face for the first 24 hours unless instructed
Apply post-care barrier cream or healing ointment (such as TruSkin or Cram Peptide Cream) as recommended
Avoid touching, scratching, or picking at your skin
Avoid heat, sweating, workouts, saunas, or hot showers
Avoid makeup, exfoliants, and active skincare ingredients
Stay out of the sun and avoid all UV exposure
Sleep on a clean pillowcase and avoid contact with pets or hair products near the face
Days 3 to 7
Skin will feel dry and have a sandpaper texture as it begins to flake and shed
Use only the approved gentle cleanser and moisturizer
Continue applying the post-care cream 2 to 3 times per day or as needed
Avoid harsh ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, or acids
Use a mineral-based SPF 30+ daily once the skin is no longer open or irritated
CoolPeel healing time is typically 5 to 7 days
Deka Pulse healing may last 7 to 10 days, sometimes longer depending on depth
What to Expect
Redness and warmth for 1 to 3 days (CoolPeel) or up to 10 days (Deka Pulse)
Rough, dry, flaking texture as old skin sheds
Brighter, smoother skin will emerge gradually
Final results become more visible over 2 to 4 weeks
When to Contact Us
If you notice any signs of infection such as pus, spreading redness, unusual pain, or blisters
If you have an active cold sore outbreak
If you are unsure about any part of your healing process
CoolPeel is a lighter, more superficial CO₂ treatment with minimal downtime. It targets fine lines, texture, and dullness.
Deka Pulse is a deeper, more aggressive CO₂ setting that treats wrinkles, acne scars, and skin laxity with more dramatic results and a longer recovery time.
CoolPeel has 1 to 5 days of social downtime depending on your skin and aftercare.
Deka Pulse requires 5 to 10 days of recovery, with redness and flaking that gradually improves each day.
Most clients describe it as a warm, prickly sensation. A topical numbing cream is applied before your treatment to keep you comfortable. Deka Pulse treatments may feel slightly more intense due to the deeper energy delivery.
Both treatments improve
Fine lines and wrinkles
Sun damage and discoloration
Texture and enlarged pores
Mild to moderate acne scarring
Overall skin tone and radiance
Deka Pulse also helps with deeper wrinkles and skin tightening
CoolPeel is safe for all skin types
Deka Pulse is typically best for lighter skin tones due to the depth of the laser, but we always conduct a skin evaluation to determine candidacy. Alternative treatments are available for deeper skin tones.
Most clients see improvement after one session, but a series of 2 to 3 may be recommended depending on your skin goals. Maintenance treatments can be done annually or seasonally.
You may see brighter, smoother skin within a week, but the full benefits continue to improve for up to 4 to 6 weeks as collagen remodeling occurs.
Avoid sun exposure, tanning, and active skincare products (like retinol or acids) for 1 to 2 weeks before and after. Do not pick or peel your skin. Use only your recommended post-care products and sunscreen once healing allows.
Yes, depending on the timing. Many clients combine CoolPeel with neuromodulators or use it as part of a seasonal skin refresh. Deka Pulse should be spaced at least 2 to 4 weeks away from other treatments to allow full recovery.