Postcare IPL

What To Do After Your IPL Photofacial Treatment

FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR TREATMENT SERIES 

  • Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds. Apply sunscreen SPF 30+ daily, and wear barrier protection such as wide-brimmed hats, large sunglasses and breathable protective clothing when outdoors.

FOR 24 HOURS AFTER YOUR TREATMENT… 

  • Avoid direct heat and sweat—including steam rooms, saunas, and exercising.

FOR AT LEAST THREE DAYS AFTER YOUR TREATMENT… 

  • Avoid topical irritants—these potentially include harsh soaps, medicated washes, scrubs, oils, retinols, scented lotions and peels.
  • Avoid hot baths / showers, as well as swimming (in any temperature). When bathing, use cool water and gentle soap; pat skin dry with a clean, soft towel.
  • Moisturize with over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% mixed with either Vaseline® or Aquaphor®, up to three times daily or as needed to help reduce irritation or itching.
  • Learn More About IPL Photofacials

Your Treatment Timeline

So, what’s next? While the experience is unique for every patient, here’s what you can expect…

IMMEDIATELY AFTER 

IMMEDIATELY AFTER 

  • Potential mild swelling, redness, or general warm sensation (normal!)
  • Areas of preexisting dark pigment may appear slightly darker
4 WEEKS AFTER

4 WEEKS AFTER

  • Skin is healed and you’re ready to receive your next treatment!
  • We recommend this treatment every four weeks to achieve and maintain optimal SkinFitness™! 
1-4 WEEKS AFTER

1-4 WEEKS AFTER

  • Areas of darkened pigment may raise and naturally slough off
  • Collagen production continues deep within the skin
  • Skin appears healthier and more uniform
WITH EACH SUBSEQUENT TREATMENT 

WITH EACH SUBSEQUENT TREATMENT 

  • Dark pigment draws closer to the skin’s surface so that it may be removed 
  • Sun damage and early signs of aging (such as fine lines, discoloration, and pore size) are reduced and prevented from worsening
  • Skin appears healthier, youthful, and more even
  • Amount of collagen production increases within the skin to counteract early signs of aging

What To Do If You Experience These Common Side Effects…

FOR REDNESS, SWELLING OR DISCOMFORT

  • Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% mixed with either Vaseline® or Aquaphor®, up to three times daily or as needed until resolved.
  • Apply cold packs (wrapped in a barrier like a towel) to the affected area(s), taking them on and off every three to five minutes for one to two hours. 
  • Avoid direct heat, tight clothing, and activities that cause you to sweat. When bathing use cool water and gentle soap.

FOR ITCHING  

  • Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% mixed with either Vaseline® or Aquaphor®, up to three times daily or as needed until resolved.
  • Avoid scratching the area.
  • May take oral Benadryl®, Allegra® or Claritin® (antihistamines available over-the-counter, liquid version preferred) as needed.

FOR MICRO-CRUSTING 

  • It’s common for areas of hyperpigmentation/sun damage to darken and form a superficial crust (called a micro-crust) following an IPL photofacial treatment.
  • It is important that these crusts remain intact for as long as possible—do not pick, scratch, or scrub them. 
  • Keep the area moisturized by applying Vaseline® or Aquaphor® 3-4 times a day until they slough off on their own.
Questions? Experiencing anything not covered here? Come in to any LaserAway or give us a call at 1-888-261-8393. You can book your next IPL photofacial appointment in four weeks!

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