Back to Laser Skin Rejuvenation
Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions for IPL
Pre-treatment
4 weeks before
- Do not wax, tweeze, bleach or use hair removal creams or electrolysis on treatment area
- Avoid direct sun exposure. If unavoidable, please use minimum SPF 50 broad spectrum sunscreen.
1-2 weeks before
- Discontinue tanning (includes beds, self-tanning creams and sprays)
24 hours before
- Shave treatment area if applicable
Day of appointment
- Remove any lotion, make-up and deodorant prior to treatment
During treatment
- You may feel a slight pricking or stinging. Some people compare the feeling to a rubber band snapping onto the skin.
- For your comfort, a topical numbing cream is available for purchase. You must arrive 30 minutes prior to treatment time in order for it to be applied and to take effect.
- You will be provided protective eyewear that you must wear during treatment
Post-treatment
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and creams until your treatments are completed
- Avoid contact sports or other intense activities that may cause treatment area to bruise
- Do not shave the treated area if crusting is evident
- Do not pick or scratch off the treated pigmented lesions as they will naturally slough off in 2-3 weeks
- Apply a minimum SPF 30 broad spectrum sunscreen to the treatment area
- Treated area may appear red, irritated and swollen (like sunburn). Apply ice packs or cold aloe vera to soothe the skin.
- Can apply makeup, lotion, resume shaving and apply skincare to treatment area as long as the skin is not broken and there is no extended redness, blistering or scabbing. Remove makeup and creams gently with a soft, clean cloth and mild cleanser. Do not scrub or rub as it can open the area and potentially scar.
- If scabbing or blistering or signs of infection occur please contact provider