MOXI laser is a newer treatment that has garnered a lot of attention thanks to its gentle technology geared toward preventative care and natural-looking results. While the results are immediate and impressive, they largely depend on how the patient behaves after the treatment.
The following information helps you prepare better for the treatment and explains what aftercare guidelines to follow to ensure safe and effective results.
What Are the Do’s and Don’ts After MOXI?
MOXI is a gentle, non-ablative laser that doesn’t remove the top skin layer (epidermis). Because of this, recovery after the treatment is faster and easier.
Nevertheless, as the laser penetrates deeper skin layers, where it creates controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production and regenerate the skin, it is essential to avoid specific activities and apply particular aftercare tips. This will help the skin heal from the process and maximize the duration of the results.
Immediate MOXI Laser Aftercare
Immediately after a MOXI treatment, the skin is typically sensitive, tight, red, slightly swollen, and warm. During the first 24 hours, MOXI laser aftercare requires soothing irritated skin, relieving swelling and pain, and deep hydration.
Do’s
- Apply a cold compress to the treatment area for 5-10 minutes every hour.
- Drink plenty of water to support healing, reduce inflammation, and flush out toxins.
- Apply a gentle recovery balm (provided by your cosmetic provider) to ease tightness.
- Sleep with your head elevated with an extra pillow to reduce swelling.
Don’ts
- Don’t wash your face for the first 24 hours.
- Don’t use any other skincare products apart from the recovery balm.
- Don’t apply makeup.
- Avoid activities that warm the body and cause sweating for 24-48 hours. These include strenuous exercise, tanning beds, saunas, and hot showers.
- Avoid sun exposure. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ sunscreen when leaving the house.
- Don’t rub, scratch, or apply pressure on the treated skin.
- Don’t smoke or drink alcohol. These increase swelling and inflammation and prolong recovery.
Short-Term (2-7 Days) MOXI Laser Aftercare
After the initial swelling and discomfort subside, patients can start exercising and wearing makeup. However, the skin is still healing itself and remains sensitive. It may exhibit tiny dark spots called microscopic epidermal necrotic debris (MENDs). These are dead and damaged skin cells being shed during the recovery process. The skin may also peel and feel rough.
In this phase, providers recommend the following aftercare tips.
Do’s
- Cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water. Use products that promote healing, support a healthy skin barrier, and hydrate the skin.
- Use a gentle moisturizer to hydrate the skin and enhance its resilience.
- Wear a broad-spectrum, SPF 30+ sunscreen, both indoors and outdoors.
- Continue to drink a lot of water.
Don’ts
- Don’t use harsh skincare products. Avoid exfoliating ingredients, such as alpha (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHA), retinol, and vitamin C.
- Don’t use heavy makeup. Instead, use mineral-based products that are less likely to irritate the skin.
- Avoid facials, waxing, and other cosmetic treatments.
- Don’t pick the peeling skin.
Note: Our skin experts recommend using a microbiome-friendly Vibrant Cleanse after a MOXI treatment.
Long-Term (2-6 Weeks) MOXI Laser Aftercare
The full effects of the treatment are typically visible by the second week. Providers recommend specific aftercare to maximize the results.
Do’s
- Incorporate protective serums into your skincare routine. Use antioxidant products containing vitamins C, E, and niacinamide to enhance your skin’s natural protection.
- Use a rich, nourishing moisturizer at night to help the skin repair during rest. Look for hydrating and soothing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and more.
- Sunscreen is always a must.
- Schedule complementary treatments to enhance MOXI results, such as light chemical peels and nourishing facials.
Don’ts
- If the skin is still sensitive, avoid harsh skincare ingredients, such as retinol and strong exfoliating acids.
- Avoid ultra-processed, sugary, and salty foods, alcohol, and nicotine. They deplete collagen and elastin reserves and accelerate the appearance of skin aging signs.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as UV radiation can quickly damage the skin.
MOXI Laser Aftercare FAQ
The following answers to frequently asked questions by our patients can help clear any confusion you may still have about proper MOXI laser aftercare.
Can I Drink Alcohol After MOXI Laser?
Cosmetic providers advise patients to refrain from drinking alcohol for the first 24 hours after treatment. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, which increases redness and swelling and slows down recovery. Excessive alcohol consumption has a negative impact on the skin and reduces the overall benefits of beauty treatments like MOXI.
How Long After MOXI Can I Use Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants in skin care, but it can irritate freshly treated skin. Most providers recommend avoiding products with vitamin C during the first week, while the skin is still sensitive. Once the skin has healed, patients can safely reintroduce it into their skincare routine.
When to Resume Retinol After MOXI?
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is a highly effective anti-aging ingredient, but it can dry out and irritate sensitive skin. Avoid it during the recovery phase after MOXI. Reintroduce it into your skincare routine slowly once your skin has fully recovered.
Do I Really Need Sunscreen Every Day After MOXI?
Yes, sunscreen is crucial for protecting the skin and helping it recover after MOXI. Because the skin is so sensitive after treatment, daily sun protection helps prevent hyperpigmentation and irritation. Cosmetic professionals advise wearing sunscreen every day, not just after cosmetic treatments, because UV radiation is one of the main contributors to premature skin aging.
How Long Does It Take to Heal After a MOXI Laser?
Healing after a MOXI treatment has several stages. The visible side effects, such as redness and swelling, resolve after several days. The skin surface typically heals within one week, but deeper healing and rejuvenation continue for several weeks.
The recovery period is unique to each patient, depending on their skin type and how well they tolerate the procedure.
When Should You See a Doctor After a MOXI Laser Treatment?
Contact your medical provider if you experience the following unusual and more severe side effects:
- High fever
- Excessive warmth in the treated area
- Severe swelling that lasts longer than 3-4 days
- Pus oozing from the treated area
- Extreme itching
Conclusion
MOXI laser is a highly effective skin rejuvenation procedure that is safe and generally well-tolerated. However, the treatment’s effectiveness depends on how well the patient cares for their skin after the treatment. Follow our Moxi laser aftercare guide to ensure the best results.
