This could also lead to more serious reactions such as hives (sometimes called erythema) which are raised areas of reddened skin with welts underneath them that sting when touched–or even worse: swelling around the mouth/lips and difficulty breathing.
A histamine reaction after laser hair removal might appear as redness, swelling, and the emergence of raised, itchy welts on the treated area. The hives can vary in size and shape and are often accompanied by discomfort.
Burns and scarring: These side effects are uncommon but there have been published accounts of superficial and partial thickness burns due to an IPL device. 5. Changes in skin colour: IPL can sometimes lead to skin discolouration. This is more likely to happen for those with darker skin tone, or under sun exposure.
Clusters of small, raised, pale bumps or red welts around hair follicles. Itchy, burning, or stinging sensations in the treatment area. Papules (small red bumps) that develop into hives.
Make up can be applied right after procedure. Cold compress or ice pack can be used to provide comfort. If you experience redness, swelling or general discomfort you can take an OTC pain reliever, Benadryl or other similar antihistamine.
It Can Cause Redness and Swelling
If any of those symptoms persist longer than 24 hours after your treatment, contact your nurse immediately because this may be an allergy to the chemicals used for hair removal.
Hyper- and hypopigmentation after laser treatments are comparatively frequent complications, with hyperpigmentation occurring more commonly.
Over-the-counter Hydrocortisone Cream: This can help decrease inflammation when applied lightly to affected areas. Oral Antihistamines: Products like Benadryl can offer relief from itching and swelling. Avoid Certain Activities and Products: Steer clear of super hot showers, exfoliating, and shaving.
When mast cells detect a substance that triggers an allergic reaction (an allergen), they release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. Histamine makes the blood vessels expand and the surrounding skin itchy and swollen. It can also create a build-up of mucus in the airways, which become narrower.
Who's not a good candidate for IPL photofacials? People with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick Skin Type 4-6) or tanned skin and people with deep wrinkles, scars or severe acne or active rosacea.
Remember, experiencing itchiness is a sign that your skin is responding to the treatment. It's part of the journey toward achieving that attractive, hair-free look you desire. So there is no reason to get alarmed, even if you experience itchiness for a few days post treatment.
One of the most significant concerns associated with IPL treatment is the risk of burns or skin discoloration, particularly in people with darker skin tones. This risk stems from the procedure's reliance on light absorption, which can lead to excessive heat in areas with higher melanin concentrations.
After, if you're still encountering swelling, ice every 10-15 minutes for the next 3-4 hours. The night of your IPL treatment, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water, making sure to pat dry. Your skin will be more sensitive than normal the day after your treatment, so gentle products are advised.
Symptoms typically last a few hours or a day. In rare cases, symptoms can persist for a few days. Diagnosing the condition is often based on circumstance. For instance, outbreaks of typical symptoms affecting several people who have eaten the same contaminated product most likely indicates histamine toxicity.
Sensitivity to Light and Redness: the light energy used in IPL therapy can cause temporary irritation. These side effects will subside within the first few hours or days. Swelling: the treatment area can experience some swelling following a session, but it dissipates within hours or a few days.
To minimize discomfort: apply a cold compress on the treated area, take antihistamines for mild swelling or hives, avoid sun exposure for at least one week, wash the area twice daily with a gentle cleanser and warm water, and apply a gentle moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
An older 2012 study examined records from 13,284 people who underwent laser hair removal and identified 36 individuals who began experiencing hives within 6–72 hours of the procedure. The rashes resolved within 7–30 days of treatment.
Use cold compresses: Applying cold compresses during the first 24 to 48 hours after your treatment can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Stay cool: Avoid hot showers, saunas, and strenuous exercise for the first few days after treatment. Heat can increase inflammation and slow healing.
Although side effects of IPL are typically rare and minimal in severity, the most common adverse events include pain and erythema. Other reported side effects include edema, bullae, hematoma, crusting, hyper- or hypopigmentation, leukotrichia, scarring, keloid formation, and infection.
Laser resurfacing can lead to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. The most common infection is a flare-up of the herpes virus — the virus that causes cold sores. Changes in skin color. Laser resurfacing can cause treated skin to become darker or lighter than it was before treatment.
The human body is vulnerable to the output of certain lasers, and under certain circumstances, exposure can result in damage to the eye and skin.
We cannot treat IPL if there's any type of tan on your skin (self-tanner, spray tan, tan from sun exposure). If you have a tan, we must wait two weeks before treating with IPL. IPL treatments are more effective when you're at your baseline skin tone (your lightest complexion).
Speed up healing after IPL therapy: Use mild cleansers and moisturizers daily on your skin. Apply a sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. This protects your skin from UVB and UVA rays.
POST-TREATMENT CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Apply Calendula cream/lotion to treated areas at least 3 times a day for at least 48 hours after treatment. An oral, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen such as Advil®) or an analgesic (acetaminophen such as Tylenol®) may be taken to reduce discomfort.