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.
Your Treatment Timeline
So, what’s next? While the experience is unique for every patient, here’s what you can expect…
IMMEDIATELY AFTER
- Potential mild swelling, redness, or general warm sensation (normal!)
- Areas of preexisting dark pigment may appear slightly darker
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
- 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
- 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!