IPL PHOTOREJUVENATION
Pre- & Post-Treatment Care
IPL photorejuvenation with Lumecca IPL is designed to improve the appearance of sun damage, brown spots, uneven skin tone, and visible redness. Proper preparation and aftercare help protect your skin and support optimal results.
A series of treatments may be recommended depending on your skin concerns, skin type, and desired outcome.
BEFORE YOUR TREATMENT
Please follow these guidelines to help prepare your skin for treatment.
Sun Protection
● Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products for at least 4 weeks before treatment, or as directed by your provider.
● Do not arrive with a sunburn or fresh tan. Your appointment may need to be rescheduled.
● Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily.
Skincare Preparation
● Discontinue retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin, exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs), and other irritating active products on the treatment area for 5–7 days before your appointment, or as directed by your provider.
● Avoid chemical peels, microneedling, and other resurfacing treatments for the interval recommended by your provider.
● Avoid depilatory creams on the treatment area.
Medications & Medical History
Please notify your provider before treatment if you:
● Take prescription medications, antibiotics, or supplements that may increase light sensitivity.
● Have used isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6 months.
● Have a history of cold sores or herpes outbreaks.
● Have melasma, a history of pigmentation changes, or a tendency to develop dark spots after skin irritation.
● Have permanent makeup, cosmetic tattoos, or tattoos in the treatment area.
● Have recently received injectables, fillers, chemical peels, microneedling, or other aesthetic treatments.
● Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition that may affect treatment eligibility.
Day of Your Appointment
● Arrive with clean skin free of makeup, lotions, self-tanner, and skincare products on the treatment area.
● Avoid applying active skincare products before your appointment.
● Follow any additional preparation instructions provided by your Skin Firm practitioner.
Do not discontinue prescribed medications without guidance from the prescribing clinician and your treatment provider.
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
Your skin may appear red or feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn. Mild swelling and sensitivity can occur and typically improve over the next few days.
Protect & Soothe Your Skin
● Apply cool compresses as needed during the first 24 hours. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
● Use a gentle cleanser and a bland, fragrance-free moisturizer as tolerated.
● Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or exfoliating the treated area.
● Avoid retinol, Retin-A, tretinoin, AHAs/BHAs, exfoliating products, and other potentially irritating active ingredients for at least 7 days, or until your provider advises it is safe to resume them.
● Avoid introducing new skincare products until your skin has recovered.
Avoid Heat & Intense Activity
● Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, very hot showers, and strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours, or longer if redness or warmth persists.
● Avoid swimming pools if the treated skin is irritated or compromised.
Sun Protection Is Essential
● Avoid direct sun exposure during recovery.
● Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily and reapply as directed when outdoors.
● Wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing when appropriate.
● Avoid tanning beds and self-tanning products during the recommended recovery period.
What to Expect
● Brown spots and areas of pigmentation may temporarily darken before gradually flaking or fading.
● Mild redness, warmth, and swelling may occur.
● Small pigmented areas may take approximately 1–2 weeks to shed or improve.
● Do not pick, scratch, or scrub darkened spots. Allow them to resolve naturally.
● Results vary by individual, and a series of treatments may be recommended for optimal improvement.
Makeup may be resumed when the skin is intact and your provider confirms it is appropriate.
WHEN TO CONTACT US
Please contact Skin Firm Aesthetics + Wellness promptly if you experience significant or worsening pain, increasing redness or swelling, blistering, open skin, or any unexpected reaction. Seek urgent medical attention for severe symptoms.