IPL, or intense pulse light, is a laser-based skin therapy that uses multiple wavelengths of light to treat skin conditions. Although IPL is fairly simple and noninvasive procedure, there are some effects that require a few days to recover from.
Exercising may irritate your skin, especially if it is done outdoors exposed to the weather elements. Consult your IPL technician about exercise recommendations and possible limitations after your procedure.
There may be certain exercise limitations after IPL therapy, so consult your technician for recommendations. You can walk however, but if it’s outside, slather your face with sunblock.
Laser-Based Skin Therapy
IPL is used to treat many skin conditions, including acne and rosacea. It can also help eliminate unwanted hair, skin redness, pigmentation and discoloration. IPL may also improve the firmness and texture of your skin and reduce fine lines and pore size. It is usually done as a series of four procedures, four weeks apart. Each IPL procedure takes around 50 minutes to perform.
The IPL treatments take 20 to 30 minutes on the average according to John Hopkins Medicine. You can expect the treatment are to be cleansed and then covered with a cool gel. Once your eyes are covered with dark glasses, a hand device emitting the light pulses is passed over the are needing treatment.
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IPL Post-Treatment Instructions
IPL may cause skin lesions that crust and flake off within two to three days and heal completely in seven to 10 days. Do not pick or scratch the affected areas. IPL may also cause a sunburn-like sensation that usually resolves within few hours to a day but may last up to 48 hours. Help relieve the sensation and hasten recovery by applying ice packs or aloe vera gel to the treatment area every hour.
Exercise After an IPL Facial
Avoid strenuous exercise after laser resurfacing for 48 hours. However, light exercise, such as walking or bicycling indoors, may be allowed and should not cause any harmful side effects. However, avoid exposure to the sun according to Mayo Clinic and other irritating weather elements, such as wind, since the treated areas can be sensitive.
Exercising outdoors may not be advised. Wear protective clothing if you will be walking outside, and apply a sunblock of at least 30 SPF or greater. Avoid swimming for 48 hours. The treated areas should not be soaked in water with chemicals or impurities.
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Treat Your Sensitive Skin
IPL treatment makes your skin sensitive, so you should not use any abrasive cosmetics or do abrasive aconites for at least 48 hours. Use mild and gentle cleansers and use lotions that contain vitamins A, C and E.
However, avoid using skin lotions that may be irritating, such as retinol for about six weeks according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Take warm-water showers for the first two days and avoid tubs, saunas and hot tubs. Sweating during exercise may irritate your skin and delay healing.
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