If age spots, sun spots, redness, and uneven tone or texture are standing between you and gorgeous, glowing skin, IPL photorejuvenation treatments can help. Intense pulse light (IPL) photofacial is a cosmetic therapy that uses the power of broadband light to correct surface imperfections and significantly improve the appearance of:

• Dark patches and age spots
• Blotchy, red skin
• Redness/rosacea
• Acne scars
• Hyperpigmentation
• Uneven tone and texture

IPL is effective for correcting a variety of skin issues and imperfections, and most people only need 3-6 treatments in order to achieve their most beautiful and radiant skin. The best way to get the most out of your IPL photorejuvenation treatment is to follow post-procedure instructions given to you by your practitioner. Those instructions will include an important list of things to avoid.  Read on for more information about what to avoid after IPL treatment.  

What to avoid after IPL photorejuvenation treatment? 

The healing process after each IPL treatment will vary from person to person, depending on their body and the scope of their treatment. Typically, redness occurs for 2 to 5 days after treatment. Other side effects may include a darkening and crusting of age spots, and while this can be a little disconcerting, it’s perfectly normal and usually subsides within 10 days or so. 

During the healing time, you’ll need to pay special attention to keeping your skin moisturized and well-cared for. Dr. Mani will give you a specific set of instructions for aftercare, but in general, you’ll want to avoid the following:

Avoid sun exposure for 30 days

While your skin heals from your IPL photofacial, it’s important to keep your skin well-protected from sun damage. Applying sunscreen alone may not be enough.  Try to stay out of direct sunlight altogether, but if you must go out, cover up with a large-brimmed hat and sunglasses as well as applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every two hours.  

Avoid wearing makeup for 24-48 hours

Your skin will be red for at least a day or two after your procedure, and although it may be tempting to cover it up with makeup right away, it’s best to let the skin breathe as it heals. If you do wear makeup after that, be sure to take it off right away using only gentle cleansing products. 

Avoid heat for 48 hours

In order to reduce the risk of altering your IPL photofacial results, it’s important to avoid hot baths, hot showers, hot tubs, saunas, and other heated environments. Take lukewarm showers or baths while your skin recovers from the light and heat of your treatment. 

Avoid strenuous activities

Strenuous exercise and other activities heat up the body and the skin, which can affect your treatment results. Take a slow walk or try gentle yoga in the first couple of days after your IPL photofacial to avoid overheating your body and skin. 

Avoid harsh or exfoliating skincare products 

Your skin will feel tender, like a sunburn, after your treatment, and certain products may irritate it further. In particular, avoid any products or supplements high in Vitamin A, including alpha-hydroxy acids, Accutane, Retin-A, glycolic acid, and retinoic acid. You’ll also want to avoid exfoliating products while your skin heals. A gentle cleanser and a thick moisturizing cream will be the best products for your skin after IPL treatments. 

Avoid scratching or picking at your skin

In the days following your IPL photofacial, your dark spots will get darker at first and then become crusty.  This is part of the process, and it’s very important that you don’t pick at the crust or anything else on your skin.  Let it fall off naturally to avoid scarring. 

Adhering to all of the pre- and post-care instructions given to you by Dr. Mani will give you the best chance of achieving your healthiest-looking, most radiant skin. 

Looking for an IPL photofacial? Come see us at San Diego Cosmetic Laser Clinic!

When it comes to cosmetic procedures, getting the best results starts with choosing the best practitioner. At San Diego Cosmetic Laser Clinic, you’re in the hands of one of the best cosmetic doctors in San Diego. Dr. Parvin Mani is a highly trained practitioner with the experience and knowledge to help you choose the right procedure for your skin and cosmetic goals, as well as the skill and technique required to help you look and feel your absolute best. 

Ready for radiant skin? Call (619) 583-7555 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mani today.