HELLO GORGEOUS MED SPA®

ABOUT YOUR TREATMENT

Solaria CO₂ is a fractional ablative laser — the gold standard in skin resurfacing. It removes damaged outer skin layers while stimulating deep collagen production. This is a more intensive treatment than RF microneedling, with more dramatic results and a longer recovery.

Learn more about the Solaria technology →

Solaria treats:

• • Deep wrinkles
• • Acne scars
• • Sun damage
• • Age spots
• • Skin laxity
• • Crepey skin
• • Enlarged pores
• • Stretch marks
• • Surgical scars

4 WEEKS BEFORE

• • Stop all retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin, retinol)
• • Avoid prolonged sun exposure — use SPF 30+ daily
• • No tanning beds or self-tanners
• • Your provider may prescribe a pre-treatment skincare regimen

2 WEEKS BEFORE

• • Discontinue AHAs, BHAs, glycolic acid, vitamin C serums
• • No waxing, threading, or chemical peels on treatment area
• • Stop blood thinners if medically approved (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E)
• • Avoid Botox or filler in the treatment area
• • Begin antiviral medication if prescribed

DAY OF TREATMENT

• • Arrive with completely clean skin — no makeup, lotions, or sunscreen
• • Eat a normal meal before your appointment
• • Arrange for someone to drive you home (recommended for full face)
• • Wear a button-up shirt to avoid pulling clothing over treated skin
• • Numbing cream will be applied for 30–45 minutes before treatment
• • Treatment takes 30–60 minutes depending on area and depth

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER

CO₂ laser recovery is more intensive than RF microneedling. Plan for 5–7 days of social downtime.

• • Significant redness and swelling (especially first 48 hours)
• • Oozing/weeping skin is normal for 24–48 hours
• • Skin will feel tight, hot, and sensitive
• • Peeling and flaking begins around day 3–5
• • A bronze/brown crusting may form — DO NOT pick

AFTERCARE — FIRST 48 HOURS

• • Soak and apply ointment every 2–4 hours (Aquaphor or recommended barrier cream)
• • Gently clean with diluted white vinegar solution or prescribed cleanser
• • Keep skin moist at all times — do NOT let it dry out or scab
• • No makeup whatsoever
• • Sleep elevated on 2 pillows to reduce swelling
• • Apply cool compresses for comfort (not ice directly on skin)
• • Take prescribed pain medication as directed
• • Continue antiviral medication

AFTERCARE — DAYS 3–7

• • Continue gentle cleansing and moisturizing
• • Skin will begin peeling — DO NOT pick, pull, or scrub
• • Let dead skin shed naturally
• • Switch from Aquaphor to a gentle moisturizer when peeling begins
• • No sun exposure — skin is extremely vulnerable
• • No exercise, sweating, hot tubs, saunas, or swimming
• • No retinol, acids, or active ingredients

AFTERCARE — WEEKS 2–4

• • New pink skin will be visible — this is healthy new tissue
• • Pink color fades over 2–8 weeks
• • SPF 30+ is CRITICAL — reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
• • Gentle cleanser and moisturizer only
• • Mineral makeup may be applied after provider approval
• • No retinol or active ingredients until provider clears you (usually 4 weeks)
• • Stay hydrated — drink plenty of water

RESULTS TIMELINE

WHEN TO CONTACT US

• • Signs of infection (increasing pain, pus, fever, spreading redness)
• • Blistering or burns that worsen
• • Cold sore outbreak (start/increase antiviral medication immediately)
• • Redness that worsens instead of improving after day 5
• • Any unusual changes in skin color (hyperpigmentation concerns)
• • Any concerns at all — we're here for you

📞 630-636-6193 — Call or text anytime with questions.