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

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 DRY, ROUGH SKIN

• Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area
• Apply Vaseline® or Aquaphor®, and the damaged skin will naturally slough off on its own.

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.