How long after Botox should I wait to get a Photofacial?

I am going in for Botox (second time/forehead only) this weekend and also want to get a Photofacial soon (not the same day; the machine is not available).

How long should I wait after Botox before getting the IPL treatment? Obviously, I do not want to affect the Botox injections and look weird! Thank you!

3 answers to “How long after Botox should I wait...”

A: Photofacials and Botox

Theodore Katz, MD

There is no reason why the IPL could not be followed by the Botox.  My bigger concern would be why the "machine" was not available to begin with.  Is this a rent-a-doc type facility where the laser is only brought in when they get enough patients together to justify the expense?  If... more

A: You can have the IPL treatment as soon as the machine is available.

Eric M. Joseph, MD

IPL (intense pulsed light) procedures are performed for hair removal, and for discolorations in your skin. The light does not penetrate through the skin, so you could have the treatments 24 hours apart without concern about affecting the BOTOX. Be careful getting a PhotoFacial in the summer. You have to... more

A: Have the IPL First

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

   You could have them both at the same visit. However, since you should not lie down after Botox I would recommend having the IPL treatment first. 

Post your question
Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.