Did IPL worsen the capillary for good or will this shrink? (photo)

Question

I had an IPL treatment on a small patch of capillaries on the upper right side of my cheek right under my eye but on the cheekbone. It's been four days the swelling has gone down but I noticed one of the small veins is actually bigger now and purple in color. Will this shrink or did the IPL deepen the capillary?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

IPL can make spots more visible at first. It can take several weeks for IPL laser results to settle. I usually recommend a combination of treatments with IPL for best results. I suggest adding microneedling/prp, peels and skin care to improve skin quality and tone. I recommend following up with a cosmetic dermatologist about appropriate after care. Best, Dr. Emer

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question meows12. I understand your concern.
IPL is a great treatment for facial rejuvenation. It can be used for broken capillaries and generalized redness. Sometimes the blood vessel gets darker before it goes away. Also broken capillaries are often stubborn and multiple treatments may be required. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Tracy Evans, MD, FAAD · Answer

I often use IPL to treat vascular lesions/rosacea/redness on the face and chest.  My rule of thumb with this treatment is that the patient will look worse (more redness) for about a week.  The patient can get tiny bruises or swelling as well.  Because it has only been 4 days, I would encourage you to wait a few more days.  Use good skin care and sunscreen daily.  Schedule a follow up with the provider who did your treatment.  You might also consider arnica tablets or cream on the areas that are purple or bruised.

Lisa Jenks, MD · Answer

When I use an IPL to treat capillaries and/or underlying red tones, I tell my patients that they will look worse for 5- 7 days after the treatment.  Bruising and swelling are very common, as is an increase in the redness.  I would advise that you wait another few days and then, if you still feel you look worse, get in touch with the provider who did your treatment.  In the meantime, you may find that arnica cream, applied 4 times a day, will speed up the healing.
Best of luck to you.

Laurene DiPasquale, MD · Answer

Although the picture is a bit difficult to see, it looks as though healing is in progress.  That blue vessel should slowly disappear over the next few weeks.  Follow up with your doctor in about a month to see if you need any further treatment.  Regards, Dr. DiPasquale

Did IPL worsen the capillary for good or will this shrink? (photo)

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