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IPL of Pimented Lesions | Pre/Post Treatment Care

Pre-Treatment Care (Pigmented Lesions)

  • Do not wax, pluck, use depilatory creams or undertake electrolysis for 4 weeks prior to treatment, and in between treatments.
  • Do not use prescription strength exfoliant creams (Retin-A and Alpha Hydroxy) for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
  • Please shave the night before all subsequent treatments.
  • Avoid tanning, including self-tanning lotions, tanning bed/booths or sun exposure, for 4 weeks prior to and in between treatments. Sunscreen should be worn at all times.
  • Increased photosensitivity from IPL can occur when taking certain medications. If you are taking the following medications, you must advise your clinician:
  • Antibiotics - doxycycline (acne), minocycline, Tetracyclines, Sulphonamides
  • Antihistamines - Diphenhydramone, Cyproheptadine
  • Antidepressants
  • HerbalĀ supplements (St. John's Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, Citrus Oils, Herbal HRT therapies. (Taking these medications does not exclude you from IPL treatments: however, extra precautions are applicable in these cases.)

Post-Treatment Care (Pigmented Lesions)

    • A mild sunburn-like sensation is expected. This usually last 2 to 24 hours but can persist up to 72 hours.
    • Mild swelling and/or redness may accompany this, which usually resolves in 2 to 3 days. In some cases, prolonged redness or blistering may occur.
    • The lesion may initially look raised and/or darker with a reddened perimeter. Apply cool/ice compresses to treatment areas for 10 to 15 minutes every hour for the next 4 hours, as needed, to reduce discomfort and heat sensation.
    • The lesion will gradually turn darker over the next 24 to 48 hours. It may turn dark brown or even black.
    • The lesion will progress, scabbing and crusting over and will start flaking off in 2 to 3 days.
    • The lesion is usually healed in 7-10 days. It will continue to fade over the next 2 to 4 weeks.
    • Direct sunlight to the treated area should be avoided. Application of a SPF30 is recommended during the day to prevent development of new lesions.
    • There is a possibility of hair loss in the treated area when being treated for pigmented lesions.