• Mild redness, swelling, and tingling are common after treatment and typically fade within 1-2 hours. Most patients can resume regular activities immediately.
• Bruising is rare and usually mild, resolving within a week. To reduce risk, avoid aspirin, NSAIDs (e.g., Advil, Motrin), and blood thinners for 48 hours before treatment.
• Discomfort may occur, similar to a rubber band snap. Some areas are more sensitive than others. Pain management options are available—please discuss with your provider.
• Scabbing and crusting may happen as brown spots temporarily darken before fading. In rare cases, blistering can occur, with darker skin types at higher risk.
• Scarring is extremely rare (less than 0.1% of cases), but may result in red, raised (keloid) or pale scars.
• Pigment changes (less than 1% of cases) can cause temporary darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation), usually resolving within weeks to months. Tanned skin has a higher risk of pigment changes.
• Infection, excessive redness, or swelling are very rare but treatable if they occur.

IPL treatment is not suitable for individuals who:

• Have used isotretinoin (Accutane, Epuris, Absorica, Clarus) within the last month.
• Have had a dermabrasion (not microdermabrasion) procedure within the last six months.
• Have lupus, severe light sensitivity, or a blood disorder called porphyria.
• Are taking medications or supplements that cause photosensitivity (e.g., minocycline, doxycycline, St. John’s Wort).
• Have a tan. Tanned skin increases the risk of adverse effects. Sun exposure should be avoided for four weeks after treatment. Sun-induced tans take approximately six weeks to fade, while artificial tans take about three weeks to fade.
• Have photosensitive epilepsy, or a history of seizures triggered by flashing lights. If this is the case, please inform your aesthetician or the doctor.