- What a scab is
- A dried crust of serum and blood that protects laser-treated skin while new skin forms underneath
- When it forms
- Common after ablative and some fractional laser protocols
- Rule one
- Never pick: let scabs separate on their own
- Healing environment
- Keep the area moist with the prescribed recovery product or a petroleum-based emollient
- Main risk
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, more likely in Asian skin; picking and sun exposure raise it
- Sun
- Strict sun avoidance and daily SPF 50 until healed and well beyond
Post Laser Scab Care
Scabs typically form whenever the optimal power is selected for certain laser treatments — this is common and expected with ablative and some non-ablative protocols. They are part of normal healing, not a measure of how well the treatment worked, and should be allowed to resolve naturally. How they are managed directly determines the quality of the final result.
Essential Post-Laser Aftercare Rules
Never pick or remove scabs. Forcibly removing scabs disrupts the healing process and substantially increases the risk of scarring and long-lasting pigmentation changes. Allow scabs to separate naturally.
Keep the area moist. Apply the prescribed post-laser recovery serum or petroleum-based emollient to maintain a moist healing environment. Dry scabs crack and extend the recovery period.
Strict sun avoidance. For 2 weeks before and at least 4 weeks after treatment, avoid direct sun exposure. Use SPF 50 daily and carry an umbrella when outdoors.
No active skincare. During the healing phase, avoid retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C and all exfoliating agents. Stick to gentle, non-fragranced cleansers and the prescribed recovery products.
Dr Sin Yong prescribes RAI Intensive Recovery Serum post-treatment — a formulation intended to support and protect the treated skin during the recovery window.
