White pimple-like blisters after IPL

My goal is to get rid of red bumps due to Rosacea. After my first IPL treatment, my face was really red and swollen. After 24 hours, on top of the red and swollen area, small white blisters that look like pimples appeared. The esthetian said she set the duration pulse low since it was my first time. I don't know why I have these whitish pimple-like blisters looking. Are these normal, and should I continue with my treatments? Please help!

3 answers to “White pimple-like blisters after IPL”

A: Side effects of IPL

Jordana S. Gilman, MD

After IPL treament, we expect and we want to see some redness. However, this usually goes away after 1-2 days. We also expect to see a darkening of any brown spots or freckles. I'm not sure what exactly is going on with the little white bumps that you describe. People with a history of herpes cold sores can... more

A: IPL treatment

Steven Wallach, MD

Redness after IPL can last a few hours, but usually dissipates after that.  Small pimples can be burns or even viral infections. You should follow up closely with your doctor.

A: Talk to the treating physician

Stella Desyatnikova, MD

It is unusual for redness and swelling to persist for a long time (longer than a couple of hours) after an IPL treatment. I am not sure what the white blisters are, but you might want to make sure you did not get a burn, or a viral infection outbreak. Talk to the physician in charge of your treatment.

Comments

REN
3 posts
13 Mar 2009

I just had IPL yesterday, and had two tiny, tiny, tiny pus blisters. They almost looked like what I call "sweat blisters." I'll get a couple sometimes after a long, hard workout. I did read some where that this happens.

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