Immediately following an IPL Photo Facial treatment, you may notice a slight reddening of the surrounding skin which typically subsides within a couple of hours. Signs of sun damage and age spots temporarily darken but over the course of the next one to three weeks, darkened spots will fade and flake off and your mottled complexion will clear.

Over time new spots may appear if there is sufficient sun exposure. These too can be removed. Remember to liberally apply sunscreen when outdoors to minimize sun damage and the appearance of new spots and excessive redness.

We recommend not using Accutane use for 6 months prior to treatment, because it will affect the results in a negative way. Some more suggestions we have include not tanning the areas being treated for 4 weeks prior to treatment, not using self-tanning products for 2 weeks prior to treatment, and stopping all Retin-A, Retinol, Renova, glycolics, bleaching creams, and exfoliants 3-4 days prior to treatment.

The treatment area must be free of any open sores, lesions or skin infections. For treatment of pigmented skin lesions, you should consult a specialist if there is a family or personal history of skin cancer or if you have these concerns. Any hair that is present has to be removed before this treatment and men should shave their beard area twice in succession in order to ensure as close a shave as possible.

Gently wash the area to be treated, removing makeup, lotion, etc. Do not apply any creams, lotions or other products to the area except a topical anesthetic (if being used). If you have elected to use a topical anesthetic, do so only after reviewing all cautions associated with its use. Apply and use as directed prior to arrival. Some more things to consider are that you cannot be pregnant or breast feeding to receive treatment and if you have a history of oral herpes, you must pre-treat with an anti-viral three days before your scheduled visit.

You will have a mild sunburn sensation following treatment that is usually gone within a few hours. Skin redness, flaking, mild bruising and/or slight edema (swelling) is normal and may last a few days. Blistering is uncommon and when it occurs it is generally not serious. Pigmented areas may begin to flake after a few days.

Cold compresses (not ice) and recommended skin care products may be useful to reduce swelling or discomfort. You may take over-the-counter pain or anti-inflammatory medication. Hydrocortisone (steroid) cream may decrease any itching or skin irritation. Antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin) may be used if skin is broken, to prevent infection.

Your skin will be fragile for 2-3 days. Use gentle cleansers, but do not rub the skin vigorously and avoid hot water during this time. Skin moisturizers may be used immediately and makeup can be applied if the skin is not broken. It is important to avoid sun exposure and tanning creams between treatments. Use SPF 30 or greater on the treatment area at all times.

The treatment area may be left open and uncovered. Do not scrub or exfoliate the area. Do not use any products on the treated area without first consulting, Avoid smoking for 24 to 48 hours. No hot tubs, whirlpools or baths, but showers are okay. Avoid excessive sweating for 24 to 48 hours. No saunas or vigorous working out.

Avoid irritants, such Retin-A, Retinol, Renova, glycolics, bleaching creams, and exfoliants for one week.

Treated areas will usually darken after treatments. Crusting of the skin can form. This crusting usually resolves in 1 to 3 weeks. Please allow your skin to naturally flake off for best results. In the rare case that you experience any blistering or scabbing, please call the pro operator as soon as possible.

Contact if you experience persistent or unusual redness, swelling or drainage, as antibiotics may be necessary. Do not apply makeup until redness has subsided. Avoid microdermabrasion and chemical peels for one week after your treatment.