Pre/Post Care Instructions for IPL Photorejuvenation/Resurfix

Before Treatment:

• It is critical to avoid extended sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning for 2-4 weeks before and after treatment. Please plan your treatments accordingly. You may be turned away if you have had recent prolonged sun exposure (ie. Sunny vacation).
• Depending on your skin type, a brightening cream may be needed 2-4 weeks prior to treatment.
• Do not use any retinol products 3 days before treatment.

• Inform your provider if you have or have had cold sores or herpes simplex outbreaks in the past. Your IPL treatment can temporarily flare the virus and your provider will supply an antiviral to prevent any outbreaks. You will start taking this medication the day before the treatment.

After Treatment

What To Expect

• Immediately after treatment, there may be mild redness and itching at the treatment site. It may feel like a sunburn and persist for 24-72 hours (about 3 days).
• Brown spots will darken over the period of a few days and eventually shed within 2 weeks.
• Your skin texture will feel tight and dry for 1-2 weeks. You may notice a rough texture as the skin is sloughing off the darkened pigmentation. It takes 7-10 days for your skin to fully heal from IPL. Results are usually revealed around 4 weeks post treatment. A series of 3-5 sessions is typically recommended for best results.
• Apply ice in 15–20-minute intervals for the first few hours after treatment to reduce any discomfort.

What To Avoid

• No strenuous physical activity or exercise for at least 48 hours. Not hot baths or showers for 48 hours. Avoid heavy perspiration and overheating the treatment area.
• No harsh products such as exfoliants, retinoids or hydroquinone for 1 week.
• Avoid sun exposure.
• No picking at scabs or dry spots.

What To Do

• Wash treatment area with warm water and a gentle cleanser.
• Pat dry. Hydrate with serums and thick moisturizers that promote collagen and elastin. We recommend the following serums and moisturizers
  • Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar
  • SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
  • Neocutis BioSerum
  • SkinMedia TNS Ceramide Cream
  • Neocutis BioCream
• Apply SPF everyday
• Resume your normal skin care regimen after 7-10 days when your skin has fully healed.