To get the best results from your IPL treatment and protect your skin, follow these simple prep guidelines:

2 Weeks Before Treatment:

• Avoid Sun Exposure & Tanning: Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning beds. Sunburned or recently tanned skin increases the risk of adverse reactions.

• No Self-Tanners: Discontinue use of self-tanning products at least 2 weeks prior to your session.

• Stop Certain Skincare Products: Pause the use of retinoids, glycolic/salicylic acids, benzoyl peroxide, and other strong actives, as these can make your skin more sensitive to light.

1 Week Before:

• Avoid Waxing or Chemical Peels: Don’t wax, use depilatory creams, or get chemical peels or exfoliating treatments on the treatment area.

• Consult Your Provider About Medications: Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to light. Let your provider know about all prescriptions, especially antibiotics or acne medications.

24–48 Hours Before:

• Shave the Treatment Area (if applicable): If you're treating areas with hair (like the face or body), shave the area 24 hours before your appointment. Do not wax or pluck.

• Hydrate: Keep your skin moisturized and drink plenty of water to help support healthy skin.

Day of Treatment:

• Come with Clean Skin: Do not apply any makeup, lotions, creams, deodorant, or sunscreen on the treatment area.

• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothing if you're having IPL done on the body, to avoid irritation after the session.

Important Notes:

• No recent sunburns or tanning is crucial—reschedule your appointment if you've been in the sun too much recently.

• Cold sores: Let your provider know if you're prone to cold sores, especially if treating the face. You may need an antiviral prescription as a precaution.

After your Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatment, your skin may be slightly red, warm, or sensitive—similar to a mild sunburn. These side effects are normal and typically resolve within a few days. To support healing and maximize your results, follow these aftercare tips:

Immediately After Treatment (First 24–48 Hours):

• Avoid Heat & Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight, tanning beds, hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms. Your skin is more sensitive to heat and UV rays post-treatment.

• Keep Skin Cool & Calm: Apply a cool compress or cold pack (wrapped in a clean cloth) to soothe any redness or warmth.

• No Scrubbing or Exfoliating: Be gentle with your skin. Avoid exfoliating products, scrubs, or loofahs for at least 5–7 days.

• Use Gentle Skincare Products: Stick to mild cleansers and fragrance-free moisturizers. Avoid active ingredients like retinoids, glycolic/salicylic acids, and vitamin C until your skin fully heals.

• Hydrate: Apply a soothing, hydrating moisturizer and drink plenty of water to support your skin’s recovery.

What You Might Notice:

• Darkening of Pigmented Spots: Freckles, sun spots, or age spots may darken (like coffee grounds) before flaking off over 3–7 days. This is a normal part of the healing process.

• Mild Redness or Swelling: This usually subsides within a few hours to a day or two.

• Skin Sensitivity: Your skin may feel tighter or more sensitive temporarily.

3–7 Days Post-Treatment:

• Continue Sun Protection: Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily—even if you're indoors or it's cloudy. Avoid sun exposure for at least 2 weeks post-treatment to prevent hyperpigmentation.

• Let Flaking Spots Fall Off Naturally: Don’t pick or scratch treated areas as this can lead to scarring or discoloration.

• Avoid Makeup (for the first 24 hours): If needed, opt for mineral or non-comedogenic makeup once your skin feels comfortable.