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IPL Photofacial Frequently Asked Questions

Before and After Care

 

What is the difference between IPL and Lasers?

What makes IPL different from the laser is that it directs a broad-spectrum high-intensity light pulse on the skin instead of a more invasive, precisely calibrated laser beam set on a narrower, specific wavelength. An IPL machine can address a variety of skin conditions as well as hair removal whereas lasers work on a narrow wavelength range, which means it can only address one specific skin concern with one laser machine.

 

Is IPL Photofacials safe?

IPL-based technology is generally considered a safe procedure as potentially harmful ultraviolet radiation is typically filtered by blocking wavelengths below 500 mm, although there are unwanted effects associated with the treatment.

 

How long does IPL take to heal?

Makeup can be used starting right after the treatment, as long as it is applied and removed very gently. Rarely, there is bruising, which can take 1-2 weeks to heal. For freckles and age spots, it is normal for the spots to look darker for 3-7 days

 

Are IPL results permanent?

Although IPL treatments will permanently reduce the total number of body hairs, they will not result in permanent removal of all hair. ... According to Remington, manufacturer of an IPL device, all IPL and laser devices should only be used on light to medium skin tones and work best on darker hair.

 

Is there any downtime with IPL Photofacials?

No. Unlike with most laser treatment, which often requires a few days of recovery as a result of extreme redness, blistering and peeling, an IPL treatment requires no downtime, appearing in most cases as if one has just a slight sunburn or exercised on a cardio machine for an hour. 

 

What Do I Need to Do Prior to Treatment?

In order to minimize any potential side effects, individuals should:

  • avoid going in the sun without SPF30 sunscreen (must contain UVA and UVB filters) for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment

  • ensure treatment area is free of sunburn, suntan, herpes outbreak (cold sores), inflammatory acne, eczema, hypo or hyperpigmentation

  • avoid over-the-counter blood-thinning agents for at least a week (Aspirin, ibuprofen, or Aleve)

  • stop using any form of Vitamin A acid for at least 60 days, including retinoic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin (Retin-A) and alpha-hydroxy acids

  • stop using Accutane for at least 6 months

  • bring contact lens case and solution as you’ll be required to remove contact lenses before treatment

  • bring sunscreen that's at least SPF30 to the appointment; you'll need to apply it after the treatment

 

What Do I Need to Do After the Treatment?

In order to minimize any potential side effects, individuals who’ve just undergone an IPL Photofacial should:

  • immediately apply moisturizer and a full spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 protecting against UVA and UVB rays

  • wear full-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 protecting against UVA and UVB rays, every day on the treated area for at least 30 days

  • avoid the sun as much as possible for the duration of the treatment plan as well as the next 30 days following the final treatment

  • avoid applying foundation or powder makeup immediately after the treatment session

  • do not take hot baths or showers for 48 hours following treatment as hot water must not touch the treated area. Warm showers are fine.

  • Do not engage in exercise that produces perspiration for 48 hours in order to avoid infection

  • Do not scratch or pick a treated area to avoid infection

  • Avoid using any form of Vitamin A acid for the duration of the treatment plan, including retinoic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin (Retin-A) and alpha-hydroxy acids

  • Avoid using Accutane

  • moisturize frequently

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