Pre-Treatment Guidelines
We want you to feel confident and comfortable coming into your IPL appointment. A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your treatment is both safe and effective. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Sun Safety
Protect your skin by avoiding tanning beds, self‑tanners, and direct sun exposure for several weeks before your treatment. IPL can’t be performed on recently tanned or sunburned skin.
Pause Certain Products
Give your skin a break from active ingredients like retinoids, acids, and exfoliants for at least two weeks before your session. Strong products such as bleaching creams should also be paused, and perfumed or essential‑oil based products recommended to be avoided for 48 hours.
Keep Us Updated
Please let us know about any recent skin changes (such as cold sores, eczema, or irritation) or new medications, especially if they increase photosensitivity. Returning clients, updating us on any changes to your health helps us keep your treatments safe and effective.
Timing Matters
If your skin is irritated, sunburned, or not at its best, we’ll happily reschedule your appointment. Please remember to respect our 24 hrs cancellation policy when making any changes. It’s also best to avoid other resurfacing treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion for at least two weeks before IPL.
Hair Removal
If you are coming in for IPL hair removal, please avoid waxing, sugaring, threading, plucking, or depilatory creams, as these methods disrupt the hair follicle needed for treatment. Shaving, however, is required and encouraged before your appointment to ensure the best results.
IPL Pre-Treatment Review List
General Contradictions
Ø Exposure to sun or artificial tanning during the last 3 – 4 weeks
Ø Pregnancy.
Ø Diseases which may be stimulated by light.
Ø Cancer; in particular skin cancer
Ø Epilepsy
Ø Use of photosensitive medication and herbs.
Ø Active infection of Herpes Simplex in the treatment area
Ø History of Keloid scarring
Ø Fragile and dry skin
Ø Hormonal disorders, unless under control
Ø Use of anticoagulants
Ø History of bleeding coagulopathies
Ø Active skin diseases in the intended area (psoriasis)
Ø Clients under 25 years of age
Ø Skin types above 4 (risk of burning)
After Care + Results
After Your IPL Treatment
It’s normal for your skin to feel a little sensitive after IPL. With the right care, you’ll protect your results and keep your skin looking its best.
What to Expect
- A mild, sunburn‑like sensation
- Redness or slight swelling (typically subsides within 2–72 hours)
💧 Immediate Care
-Soothe your skin with cold compresses for 10–15 minutes every hour as needed
- If redness or blistering occurs, apply an antibiotic ointment twice daily until healed
- Avoid makeup on any blistered or healing areas
- Apply SPF 40+ daily, at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply as needed. Hats and protective clothing are strongly encouraged for treated areas.
What to Avoid
- Direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self‑tanners
- Harsh topical products such as acids, exfoliants, or acne treatments
- Hot tubs, saunas, or activities that cause heavy sweating
- Swimming in chlorinated pools for at least 24 hours
- Picking, peeling, or rubbing the skin, which can lead to pigmentation changes or scarring
Recommended Home Care
Your esthetician will suggest the best options to support healing and hydration after your service. Popular choices include:
- Witch Hazel Hydrosol
- Calming Cucumber Mask
- Sheabutter Face Cream
- Super Hydrating Face + Neck Mask
Transform your skin—one session at a time.
Book your next IPL appointment or see what we offer.