Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, very dark skin, recent sun exposure/tanning, photosensitizing medications (like Roaccutane, certain antibiotics), active skin infections, epilepsy, autoimmune conditions (lupus), history of keloid scarring, and certain moles/tattoos in the treatment area, as the light can worsen these conditions or cause burns. It’s crucial to disclose all medical conditions and medications to your provider for a proper assessment before treatment. 

• Burns and Blisters: If energy levels are too high or the skin isn’t prepared properly, leading to pain, redness, and potential scarring.
• Pigmentation changes: Darkening (more common in darker skin) or lightening of the skin, which can sometimes be permanent.
• Scarring: Can occur from burns or poor healing.
• Infection: Especially if the skin barrier is compromised.
• Increased hair growth: Incorrect settings can paradoxically stimulate hair growth. 

• Eye Damage: Serious injury, including vision impairment, retinal detachment, or macular holes, if protective eyewear (goggles or shields) isn’t used. 

• Infection Trigger: Can activate dormant viruses like cold sores or cause acne flare-ups.
• Allergic reactions: To topical creams used before treatment.
• Making skin cancer: Treating suspicious moles with IPL can hide melanoma, delaying diagnosis. 

• Skin Tone: Darker skin types are at higher risk for burns and pigmentation changes.
• Untrained Operators: Using incorrect energy settings for a specific skin type or condition. 

For treatments apart of our IPL Skin Renewal series, the most common areas treated are the face, neck, chest, hands and arms.

Typically 30 minutes.

You can return to work and normal activities straight after your treatment, but expect temporary redness, warmth, and darkening of pigmentation (like “coffee grounds”) for 1-2 weeks as skin exfoliates; avoid sun, heat, and heavy sweating for a few days, use SPF religiously, and don’t pick at skin as it flakes.