VBeam Recovery Guide: What to Expect After Treatment

Recovery after VBeam varies from person to person. It depends on the area treated, the condition being treated and the laser settings selected by your doctor. Some treatments are planned to minimise bruising, while others may deliberately produce purple bruising (purpura) to achieve the intended result.

Typical VBeam recovery timeline

Immediately after treatment

The skin may feel warm or mildly stinging, rather like sunburn. Redness and puffiness are common, and swelling can be more noticeable around the eyes.

Days 1–3

Redness and swelling may be most visible during the first few days. If your treatment produces purpura, the treated spots can look dark red, purple or bruised and may deepen in colour before they begin to fade.

Days 3–5

For many people, redness and swelling settle substantially within three to five days. Recovery may be quicker after a non-bruising treatment and longer after stronger or more extensive treatment.

Days 7–14

When purpura is expected, the bruising commonly takes around 10–14 days to fade. Occasionally it can take longer. Your doctor will explain the likely downtime for your individual treatment plan.

Looking after your skin

• Use a cool compress wrapped in a clean cloth for short periods if the area feels hot or swollen. Do not place ice directly on the skin.
• Cleanse gently, pat dry and use only the products recommended by your clinician.
• Do not rub, scratch or pick the treated skin. If a blister or crust forms, allow it to heal naturally.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, saunas, steam rooms and very hot showers until swelling and bruising have settled, or for as long as your clinician advises.
• Protect the area from the sun and use a high-protection, broad-spectrum sunscreen once the skin is intact. Avoid tanning during your treatment course.
• Only apply make-up when the skin is intact and your clinician has said it is appropriate.

When to contact Riverbanks Clinic

Please contact us promptly if pain, redness or swelling is worsening rather than improving, or if you develop significant blistering, weeping, spreading redness, increasing tenderness, discharge, fever or any other symptom that concerns you.

Email reception@riverbanksclinic.co.uk. If you feel seriously unwell or need urgent medical help, use the appropriate urgent-care service.

Watch our VBeam video

Watch the VBeam treatment and recovery video on YouTube

Considering VBeam?

A doctor consultation and test patch allow us to assess your skin, discuss likely downtime and create a treatment plan for you.

Book a VBeam doctor consultation and test patch

This guide provides general information only. Always follow the personalised advice given by your Riverbanks clinician, as it takes priority over this page.