IPL swelling after treatment - is this normal? (photos)

Question

This is my 3rd IPL treatment and I have never had a reaction like this with the past 2. This was a more aggressive treatment and I needed an ice pack for over an hour afterwards. I woke up this morning and my face is swollen, eyes are puffy, and I do have a few areas of dark patches almost like a burn. I know these things can be normal, but the swelling really bothers me. What can I do besides ice and elevate. Can I apply anything topical to bring the swelling down faster?

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

This is a stronger response than usual, but it can happen and will settle down, rest assured. That said, your dermatologist can provide you prescription strength antihistamines and cortisone or other topical therapies to help this subside much faster. There may even be some bruising there. At higher settings, there is a higher chance for down time / "side effects", but the results in the end are often worth it.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

While you can have some swelling after IPL what you are experiencing is a bit more dramatic than I like to see. You can try an OTC antihistamine like Benadryl. You can also apply hydrocortisone to the reddened areas. But I would also suggest you call your treating office so they can note what happened and adjust any future treatments. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

IPL swelling after treatment - is this normal? (photos)

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IPL swelling after treatment - is this normal? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about IPL

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.