INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL) INSTRUCTIONS:
PRE-TREATMENT:
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 4 weeks prior to your treatment.
• Avoid applying self-tanner for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
• Inform the doctor if you have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the last 6 months.
PROCEDURE DAY:
• Arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. Please arrive 10 minutes early in order to clean the skin, sign consent forms, and take pre-treatment photos.
• Allow 30 minutes for your appointment depending on the size of the treatment area.
• We will apply cooling and post-care products after your treatment.
• Make-up may be applied to cover redness as needed.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Expect your skin to appear pink (resembling mild sunburn) for a few hours after treatment.
• Your skin may be temperature sensitive for several days.
• Brown spots and freckles will appear darker while healing and exfoliating off.
• The sessions are designed to provide no downtime, however occasionally you may find that your cheeks and under eye areas are slightly puffy after treatment. You may use cold compresses (5 minutes on and 10 minutes off) several times an hour to help ease both redness and swelling.
• Blistering and crusting are rare. If these do occur, apply a thin layer of over-the-counter Aquaphor, Vaseline, or coconut oil 2-3 times a day for 3 days.
• Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin color) can occur in some skin types.
•It will take 4-6 weeks to see the full result and 2-3 treatments may be required to achieve an optimal result.
POST-TREATMENT:
• Use mild cleansers and moisturizers.
• Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen, alcohol, heavy exertion and activities which may cause flushing for 2 days after treatment
• Avoid harsh topical products such as retinoids and glycolic acid products for one week after.
• Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater for 4-6 weeks after your treatment.
• Anticipate some social down-time following your treatment just to be safe, but you can wear makeup.