Intense Pulse Light – IPL Aftercare

What Should I Expect after my Treatment?

Most of the following symptoms are temporary and will generally fade within 4-7 days unless otherwise stated. You may resume your normal activities the same day of your procedure.

• Treated areas will likely become red for 24 hours then turn darker. Most dark areas will resemble coffee grounds and will flake off approximately 10 to14 days later.
• Treated areas can be washed normally with mild soap and water. Wash the treated areas gently with your fingertips. Excessive exfoliation should be avoided.
• Most spots will resolve after about 3 sessions, however, more may be needed if heaver skin damage is present or you desire additional correction or more aggressive results.
• You may also see: Mild redness or peeling, swelling, stinging, and tenderness

What Care Should I Take After my Treatment?

Refrain from using any products that contain AHAs (such as glycolics). Also refrain from Retin A, Renova , hydroquinone and any exfoliation products for 1-2 weeks.

• Do not pick, rub, peel or exfoliate the spots after your treatment. You could cause permanent damage like scarring, hyper-hypo pigmentation and possibly infection. The spots will come off in their own time.
• Use hydrating, moisturizes as often as needed.
• You may also use cool packs for any swelling or inflammation.
  No sun exposure for two weeks before or 72 hours post treatment using SPF 45 at minimum during the treatment regimen. Tanning increases darkness of your skin and raises the chance of side effects and makes treatments more uncomfortable. Additionally, refrain from using self tanner for 10-14 days before your treatment.

What if I Have Problems or Concerns?

There can be risks and side effects if choosing to have IPL done, they include but are not limited to the following. If you have any of these symptoms please call the office at 303.683.3235.

• Poor cosmetic results or inadequate correction
• Extreme redness or peeling with pain (uncontrolled)
• Yellow crusting
• Cold sores: If you are prone or have a history of cold sores your practitioner will provide a prescription for acyclovir, zovirax or any prescribed antiviral if deemed necessary prior to or after treatment.

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