What to Expect After Moxi Laser: Day-by-Day Recovery Guide

Day 0: Immediately After Treatment

Immediately after treatment with Moxi, skin is red (similar to a sunburn) and has some mild heat to it. Some patients also complain of a warm tingling feeling to the treated skin. For most patients, this sensation lasts about an hour or two and eventually subsides. Skin will remain red the remainder of the first 24 hours until the redness gradually subsides. During this time post-procedure, it is helpful to keep the skin cool with a fan or cold compress.

Many patients like to use the Epicutis Lipid Recovery Mask post-treatment to help calm the skin. A gentle moisturizer and mineral sunscreen may be applied to the skin; however, most often we recommend waiting for the heat to subside before adding products to the skin. You will want to avoid makeup to the skin until the following day.

A close up of a woman's face 24 hours after moxi laser treatment

A close up of a woman's face 48 hours after moxi laser treatment

A close up of a woman's face 72 hours after moxi laser treatment

The photos here are (in order) 24, 48, and 72 hours post-treatment.

Day 1–2: The “Suntan” Phase

After the first 24 hours, much of the redness has faded and skin may look slightly bronzed or tan. This is because at this point in recovery, MENDs (Microscopic Epidermal Necrotic Debris) form, causing a sandpapery texture to the skin. These MENDs are the damaged tissue coming up to the surface, which will eventually exfoliate off.

Patients should make sure to avoid picking, scrubbing or exfoliating these MENDs off. The skin will heal best if it does so naturally on its own. It is important to continue with gentle cleansing and hydration, as well as using a physical (mineral) sunscreen every morning. Makeup use can also be resumed during this time.

Day 3–5: MENDs Begin to Exfoliate

As mentioned above, the MENDs will begin to exfoliate on their own. This typically happens around the mouth first (centrally) and then works its way out to the outer portion of the face. The skin will still feel a little dry, rough and slightly flaky. If the flaking becomes bothersome, applying moisturizer throughout the day can help. Continue sticking with a simple, hydrating skincare routine and avoid active ingredients such as retinols, AHAs or vitamin C until skin fully recovers. Avoid manual exfoliation to the MENDs during this time.

Day 5–7: Flaking & Brightening

By days 5-7, most of the MENDs have shed. This reveals fresh, more even-toned skin underneath. There could be some residual dryness to the skin, but this is typically minor. Overall skin is brighter and smoother. During this time, continue with hydration and sunscreen. A full makeup routine is also allowed. Continue to be gentle to the skin and do not rush the flaking process.

A close-up of a woman's face moxi laser treatment before and after.

before and after moxi laser treatment showing improvement in spots and redness

Week 2 and Beyond: The Glow

As time moves on, skin tone will look even more even, radiant and refreshed. Pigment irregularities and sun damage begin to fade. Most will notice gradual improvements in texture and firmness over the following weeks to months as collagen stimulation continues.

Once skin is fully healed, a regular skincare routine can be resumed. This includes use of daily antioxidants and retinol if recommended by your provider, as well as daily SPF to maintain results. Some may consider a series of Moxi treatments for optimal outcomes.

Seen here is a before and after of the moxi laser treatment. Swipe to see the same results as seen through our Visia Facial Analysis System, which shows that the treatment is working even if it’s hard to tell on the surface at first glance.

Head to our Instagram for more before and after results!

Managing Expectations & When to Call Your Provider

While this guide is designed for a typical healing journey, everyone heals in a unique way. Some may recover faster or slower. Most people feel “socially presentable” within 3-4 days after treatment. If there are ever questions about how you are healing, reach out to your provider. If there is excessive swelling, blistering, or unusual discomfort, an evaluation is needed by your provider.

Still Deciding if the Moxi Laser Recovery is Worth It?

Recovery after Moxi is simple, with most patients noticing that their skin feels back to normal within a week. A little redness, dryness, and flaking are all part of the natural healing and renewal process. With the right care, your skin will look brighter, smoother, and more even-toned. Moxi laser offers a gentle, effective skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime for all ages and skin types. The short recovery is manageable for even those with busy schedules.

Whether you are new to laser treatments or simply looking for a low-downtime option, Moxi is a smart choice for radiant, youthful skin. If you are interested in a fresh, glowing complexion with little disruption to daily life, schedule a consultation with one of the providers here at Atalo Aesthetics in Cincinnati! We’ll be happy to help answer any more questions or concerns you might have prior to scheduling a moxi laser treatment.