What is the recovery like after a laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Question:
What is the recovery like after a laser skin resurfacing procedure?

Answer:
After using a carbon dioxide fractional resurfacing laser a patient can expect redness, swelling, and peeling for 4-5 days. After the initial few days makeup can be worn over the skin, which will be pink in the treated areas for another two weeks. The results of the resurfacing laser should be smoother skin, less superficial wrinkling, and more even pigmentation.