The Active FX uses a CO2 laser to removal a small core of tissue (about 1 hair thick) which literal decreases the amount of skin. During a face lift approximately 30 square cm of skin are removed, during an Active FX procedure approximately 20-25 square cm of skin are removed.  There is also a significant thermal effect from the Active FX which causes the tissue around the removal site to shrink and also stimulates new collagen deposition. Although there is very little discomfort most patient prefer to take between 5-7 days off before returning to social activities. A single Active FX treatment can tighten tissue from 10-35% depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment. Results last several years.

You should cover the treated area with an occlusive ointment like Silkses (less milia and acne) or Auqaphor.  You may notice mild to significant swelling, especially around the eyes.  The more aggressive the treatment, the greater the swelling is likely to be.  In many cases we put our patients on prednisone (oral steroids) to help decrease this swelling.  Most swelling starts to significantly improve by about day 3. During this time you can wash your face with Aquanil (cuts the grease of the ointment well) and/or one tbsp plain white vinegar to 1-2 cups cold water.  The water/vinegar combination is weak ascetic acid and will act as an antibiotic and sooth the skin. 

You may also notice some minor itching, if itching is more than mild and not controlled with Benadryl, Claritin or Zyrtec call you doctor as this can be a sign of dermatitis or infections.  If you have a history of cold sores you should be taking an antiviral such as Valtrex or Acyclovir.  Some patients do get breakouts after a few days of having the occlusive ointment on their skin.  This is also were the milia can come into play.
Somewhere between day 5 and 7 you should be able to start back with mineral make-up and stop the topical ointment. After a week or so the Active FX areas will look pretty normal but you will likely be pink in the areas of the Deep FX for at least two or three more weeks depending on how aggressive your provider does the procedure.