Skin Rejuvenation Care Instructions & Contraindications

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IPL Skin Rejuvenation, also known as "PhotoFacials", can effectively target a number of moderate skin conditions. It is superior to many other treatments when it comes to lightening hyperpigmenation such as sun spots, age spots, freckles, red marks and cherry angiomas, and can simultaneously treat such conditions like Rosacea, telangiectasia (broken capillaries or irregular vascular conditions) and acne. It helps to shrink large pores and can even stimulate collagen for an over all tightening effect. This light-based technology has also been shown to help red, blotchy or inflamed skin types, to regain a more even, radiant complexion . IPL Skin Rejuvenation is commonly used on areas of the body like the face, neck, hands, shoulders, arms, chest and back, as this is commonly where the much of the pigmentation or abnormalities are  found, as these areas tend to be exposed to the elements most often. Clients can expect an average of 4-5 treatments spaced approximately 3-4 weeks apart for best results. Like Laser Hair Removal, IPL skin treatments cannot be performed for a minimum of 4 weeks on those who have had any recent sun exposure/tan, or have used pigmented tanning creams, as the risk for burns or blisters is high. See below for more Pre and Post IPL Skin Rejuvenation care instructions and Contraindications (criteria that may make you ineligible for treatment). For more information on IPL Skin Rejuvenation, click HERE.

1. Shave the area (if needed) one day prior to treatment.

2. No perfume, lotion or cologne on the treatment area prior to procedure

3. Remove make-up before the procedure

4. Do not tan or expose the treated area to sun 4 weeks prior to procedure; No tanning lotions 3-4 weeks prior to procedure.

5. No waxing, threading, tweezing, sugaring, epilating or use of any chemical depilatories or bleach on the area before and while undergoing the treatment sessions.

6. Do not use skin irritants (Retinol/Glycolic Acid/Lactic Acid/Benzoyl Peroxide) on area to be treated for at least 3 days prior to procedure; for prescription creams (ie. Retin A), stop using 2 weeks prior to treatment. 

7. Use sunscreen, minimum SPF 30, prior to laser treatments. 

1. Treated areas may be tender, slightly red or swollen. This usually appears within hours of treatment. If redness or swelling occurs, apply a cold towel or compress for 15 minutes per hour and re-apply as needed.  No exposure to sunlight for 1-2 days. Use sunblock (SPF 30 or more) and reapply every 2 hours.

2. Blisters may occur in sensitive areas such as bikini line or neck. Should this occur, an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin or Aquaphor can be applied twice daily until healed. Hydrocortisone (purchased in ointment or cream form OTC) can also be applied to decrease symptoms. 

3. Scabbing, crusting or oozing may occur within 1-3 days. Do not pick or remove; do not shave the area. Apply Vitamin E or Aloe to keep the area moist. 

4. No deodorants, perfumes, perfumed lotion, cologne or any cream that may irritate the treatment area for 1-2 days. 

5. No strenuous exercise that causes excessive sweating for 1-2 days.

6. No hot bath/swimming pool for 1-2 days; you may shower the day of the Laser treatment. The area should be washed gently with cool to warm water and mild soap or cleanser. Pat dry, do not rub. 

7. Avoid make-up until site is healed. 

8. Avoid direct sun and sun bed tanning for course of treatments and for the month following final treatment. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 minimum daily to exposed areas. 

9. Skin Type IV-VI should continue to use a lightening/brightening agent such as Vitamin C if used prior to treatment.

10. Pigmentation change (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation) may occur. Changes typically normalize within a few weeks.