IPL Photofacial
Pre/Post Treatment Instructions

Pre and post care are crucial when undergoing laser treatment on your face because they help ensure safe, effective results and minimize the risk of complications like irritation, scarring, or hyperpigmentation. Below is the before treatment and after treatment care that should be followed.

Before Your Treatment

    • Avoid sun exposure 2-3 weeks before the treatment
    • The use of tanning creams/beds and bronzers must be discontinued 2 weeks before and after treatment
    • If you have a history of Herpes Simplex, prophylactic antiviral therapy must be started 2 days prior to treatment and continued 1 week after treatment
    • Must be off of all photosensitive medications, antibiotics, steroids and OTC medications (i.e., Ibuprofen) 2 weeks prior to treatment.
    • Do not use any products containing Retin-A, Retinol, Renova or other Retinoid containing products 3 to 7 days prior to treatment
    • Stop using exfoliating sponges/scrubs, Glycolic, Alpha and/or Beta Hydroxy Acid and Vitamin C at least 48 hours before treatment.

After Your Treatment

    • Immediately after treatment, there may be erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) at the treated area, sometimes leaving a feeling of sunburn sensation. This usually lasts 2 hours or longer. Aloe Vera lotion can be used.
    • For redness or swelling, you may use cold or ice packs, 10-minute intervals (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off), as needed for comfort and to relieve swelling.
    • Do not use any retinoids, tretinoins, alpha or beta hydroxy products, vitamin C products, scrub, exfoliate, or have chemical peels performed on the areas treated for 1 week.
    • Do NOT pick or scratch the treated area, this could cause scarring
    • Sun spots and age spots will DARKEN with the IPL treatments BEFORE they begin to respond and resolve. This is expected and a normal part of the IPL process. Do not pick these spots once they become dry. They will lift and fall off on their own.
    • Use a gentle cleanser, a mild moisturizer and a Sunblock after the treatment for 5-7 days before resuming your normal skin routine.
    • No heat: such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis or extremely hot showers, or strenuous activities or exercises 48 hours after treatment
    • Avoid sun exposure 2-3 weeks post treatment to prevent hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation